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10 June. RIchard Dreyfuss made a Mason, and I saw it!

I was in Washington DC on 10 June, and Mr. Richard Dreyfuss, the academy-award winning actor, was made a Master Mason, in due and ancient form. Then he was made a 32d degree Scottish Rite Mason.

How fabulous, to see this man join our Craft. He spoke briefly about his new project, The Dreyfuss Initiative, which will endeavour to promulgate the teaching of Civics in American Public Schools.

See

The Dreyfuss Initiative

I cannot imagine my life without Masonry!

New Masonic magazine (digital)

See

Living Stones Magazine

There is supposed to be an article about the Canadian lodge in Afghanistan, but I have not yet found it.

22 April. Still no job

Well, I have been back in the USA for six weeks. Sadly, no job. However, I do keep applying. I applied for a job with a major firm, in Afghanistan. I was instructed to call a 1-800 number on Thursday Morning. I assumed the number was here in the USA. The phone rang, and it was the project manager in Afghanistan. We had a very good conversation, and he indicated that I would be getting an additional interview (hoo-ray). If I can clear this next interview, I should get an offer, and I can go back to Afghanistan.

Here in the USA, it is strange how little has changed. I keep seeing people with I-phones, and I am amazed at how many there are. I have not even turned my ordinary cell phone back on. Don't see the need for one, just now. I stay home most days, sitting on the computer, looking for work.

I would like to have more activities, when I am home. I am aghast at $3.97 a gallon for gasoline. In the District (of Columbia), gas is way over $4 per gallon. I prefer to eat my meals at home, and I do not go out for food, even fast food. I did get some Chinese at the greasy-chopsticks across the street. They have excellent egg rolls.

Been doing some projects around the house. We got a deck, and Larisa decided to paint it. (BIG mistake). Gray and white, and it looks awful. Not much point in arguing. She got a privacy screen, and when I get some decent weather, I will mount it.

Boy is it great to watch TV. I never get tired of it. Yesterday, there was a "Law and Order SVU" marathon. Great show. This morning, I saw "Mackennas Gold" a western from 1969. Love those old films.

Larisa has been screaming a lot. I have to wear foam rubber ear plugs at the breakfast table. Sux.

Back home in the USA. And without a job

I was told that I was returning to the USA, for additional training, and to work in the lab in Lorton VA. The firm was not truthful to me. When I arrived at the office, on Tuesday, I was informed that my services were no longer needed. I am therefore, without a job. It makes me very sad, that the firm has no more integrity than that.

I am now seeking work, and I hope to find something soon. I would like to return to Iraq or Afghanistan. If anyone knows of any work in the NorthernVA Area (Telecommunications, Computer Systems,etc). Please email me.

Leaving early

I was able to get an earlier flight. Terrific. I can't wait to get back home. I am going to over-dose on Big Macs, and Baskin-Robbins. Maybe I can get a couple of days off, to chill out. I work 7am to 7pm 7 days a week. That is a lot of work. I wish the firm could spread out the work, and let us have some time off.

A big wind, blew down the tree in neighbor's yard (at my home in Alexandria VA). The fence is blown down, and I must get another one.

I am tired of so much work, and I need this time off. Thanks for this job, but there is a limit.

I am going to celebrate the Kentucky Derby, May 7.

Friday morning

Well, the days are passing, until I can fly back home. I finally got my ticketing straightened out. I have a flight from Kandahar to Dubai, and then I will stay in Dubai for about a day, then get a direct flight to Washington DC. I will get into Dulles early in the morning, and get a shuttle out to my house, then climb in the rack. Glad to be rid of Afghanistan.

I went to the Canadian Lodge tonight. It is a regular lodge, recognized by the GL of Kentucky, and I will not get suspended for attending the meeting. I wish that I could attend other lodges, but I can't.

I got back to the office, after the chow hall closed. So I went to TGI Fridays, and I got a chicken caesar salad, and chicken primavera with pasta. I ate the whole meal up, nothing left but grease on the plate. When I get back to the USA, I am going to over-dose on Big Macs, and home made biscuits. My cholesterol is going to shoot up 90points. I can't wait to feast on barbecue, and pasta, and chili, and omelettes. I am going to use the slow cooker and eat fast. Also Wendy',s and I will eat Chinese food, until I pass out. I am so sick of this chow hall food.

It has been fairly dry the last couple of days. I opened the door at the lab, and the wind caught it, and BANG, the door was torn off. There it is, sitting on the floor. I just picked it up, and leaned it against the wall. My co-worker will call in a work order tomorrow, and get it fixed I hope. It has gotten cool, and it just started to rain. What a hassle. I am so glad to be going home.

It is now 5:38. If it was not raining, I would mosey over to the chow hall, and attempt to eat some cold cereal with milk. But I just don't feel like making the trip.

Saturday morning. Ready to go home

The last two days, have been pretty awful. The rains have come, and they have come hard. It has been raining, almost constantly for the last two days. This is a desert, and there is not adequate drainage for the rains. Consequently, there are pools and lakes every where. This is Afghanistan, either a pile of dust, or a lake of mud. I hate this place.

There is a huge lake, in front of the tent. I have to go in/out through the back door. At least the tent is still dry, inside. I hope that the rains will cease, and there will not be a flood in my tent.

The chow hall served some decent food tonight. Boneless chicken in a tomato sauce, and rice. Every day there is rice. The desert was a fruit compote. Still no coca-cola, only sprite and orange pop.

The shower trailer had no hot water, so I went to three other shower trailers, and finally found one with hot water. I got an excellent shower. I have not been to the laundry for a week, and there are two bundles of clean laundry to pick up.

At least the internet is fairly serviceable. I can listen to some streaming audio, and I like the BBC. I have a short-wave radio, but it is almost useless. There are not many English language programs, beamed into this part of the world, on shortwave.

I have been going round and round, with the travel agency, and I finally got a ticket to travel home. I will be leaving around the end of the month. I will fly to Dubai, and then get a direct non-stop flight from Dubai, straight to Dulles field. I am so glad to be going home.

I keep fantasizing about the food I am going to eat. I love Huevos Rancheros! You fry some corn tortillas, and then put them on a plate. Then you fry a couple of eggs. You put some mild salsa on the tortillas, and then you put the eggs on the salsa. Then you put some shredded cheese on the eggs, then you put them under the broiler, until the cheese melts. Delicious.

I may overdose on Mexican food, when I get home. I am going to eat a lot of ice cream as well. The biggest thing I am going to do is SLEEP! I will be in a real bed, that does not jam wires into my back. And there will be no aircraft noise.

Sunday night

The lodge had a coffee break at the coffee shop. I ate donuts and drank some coffee with the Masons. How terrific it is , to have a lodge here. Fortunately the lodge is Canadian, and it is recognized by the Grand Lodges, which I am member of.

I am ready to go home. I am ready to sleep in a bed, and get a hot bath in a tub. I am ready to cook my own meals. I am getting tired of this chow hall food. Some nights they have spaghetti and burgers. Some nights they have burgers and spaghetti. Two nights ago, they had some decent boneless chicken. They only have that soft-serve machine ice cream. I miss Baskin-Robbins, when I get home, I will probably over-dose on Baskin-Robbins.

I will not go home to rest. I am going to be cleaning and doing yard work, and all kinds of chores. I do not mind, I like to have a clean house. And cleaning the house, is the price of having a clean house.

Going home

My official orders expire at the end of this month. I will be heading back to the USA around 1 March. I am glad to be going home. I am looking forward to the USA food, and getting a bath (in a tub).

There is a lot of work here in Afghanistan, the work is not over yet. This war is going to go on for a long time. The date of 2014, is tossed around, but that is only an estimate.

I am still on night duty, which I prefer. I have really enjoyed meeting the other Masons here. I enjoy our coffee breaks the best. There are Masons here from Canada, the USA, England, even South Africa.

When I get back to the USA, Larisa is keen to go to Miami. I want to go to Orlando. We will probably do both. Frankly, there is not much in Miami, that I am interested in. I went to Walt Disney World, in 1980. I would like to see it again.

A typical day

What is it like here at Kandahar, Afghanistan? Most people have no idea. Here is what I do 7 days a week.

I get up at 5:30pm. I crawl out of bed, and put on my walking shorts, and shower shoes. I go to the shower house, and take a shower. Fortunately, the water is very hot, and the pressure is high. I need that shower. I dry off, and walk back to the tent. I grab a khaki uniform (not a US army uniform, just a khaki suit). I get my ID card, and cell phone, and go to the front of the tent.

The carpool arrives about 6:30, and I ride to the office. The day crew is finishing up, and I get a briefing on what is going down on the night shift. I check to see if anything is urgent, and if not, I walk to the chow hall.

The food is institutional, steam table food. Rice every day. Pork steaks, fish, broiled chicken, vegetables, salad, dessert. The bread is very good here.

I walk back to the office, and get on the cases. I analyze the cases, and write them up. I stop at 9:00pm, and go watch "Jeapordy" on the TV. I am pretty good at it.

I go back to the office, and continue to do the cases. I usually finish about 0100am.

Then I can read, or study some other cases. I am working on a Civil War book now.

I drink some coffee, and sometimes I will make a bowl of dehydrated noodles.

I finish at 0615. I go downstairs ,and meet the carpool. I ride back to the tent, take off my clothes, and crawl into the bed.

And that is what I do, seven days a week, from 7 am to 7pm . I will be finished with this portion of the work, in April. I may go back earlier, I may leave later.

I would love to hear from my readers. Feel free to email me at cemab4y@hotmail.com

Two months in Afghanistan

I have been in Afghanistan for two months.

Two months in Afghanistan

I have been in Afghanistan for two months.

NO discussion of military Freemasonry.

The masonic society, closed down a discussion I started about getting Masonry underway in Iraq and Afghanistan.

(material removed at request of author)




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I am sorry that you have seen fit to close this topic. I will NEVER give up, trying to get a mainstream, F&AM, USA Grand Lodge sponsored, Masonic lodge in Iraq and/or Afghanistan.

If you think there is a regular, F&AM, USA Grand Lodge sponsored, working masonic lodge in south-west Asia, (OTHER THAN Prince Hall or Canadian), you are wrong. Why do you think there are regular lodges operating in SWA? If there is one (other than Prince Hall or Canadian), please let me know. I get emails every day, asking me if there a lodge here.

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I agree. I have done no such thing. I have made no request to any lodge, to change anything in any lodge. I cannot go to a USA lodge, I am in Afghanistan. This admonition is meaningless.

I belong to three (3) Grand Lodges. Kentucky, New York, and Massachusetts. I have not made a request to GLKY to charter a lodge here.

The Grand Lodge of New York, came to me, and asked me to take over the lodge project. Even though I was not a member of the GLNY at that time, I was delighted, and agreed. I later joined a NY lodge, so that I could contribute more directly, and also serve as an officer in LSA#1.

The only direct request I ever made of a USA Grand Lodge, to set up a lodge in Iraq, was to the Grand Lodge of Nebraska. The GL Neb, has a program called "swisher kits", where they provide a complete "lodge-in-a-box" to ANY mason, (provided the requesting mason is a member of a GL in communications with Nebraska). The GL Neb ignored my request. I have found out, that no swisher kit, has ever been issued. I also found out, that no USA Grand Lodge will agree to accept any of the degree work, performed in any of these temporary lodges.

Other than this one(1) request, I have NEVER made a direct request to any USA Grand Lodge, to charter a lodge in SWA.

I did make a request from the United American-Canadian Grand Lodge of Germany, which charters lodges in Germany, and other countries (including Saudi Arabia). The UACGL charters lodges on USA/Canadian military bases in Germany (and elsewhere). They also charter lodges in Saudi, for the oil workers. The UACGL told me, they were not interested, and suggested that I try my home Grand Lodges. (When I lived in Saudi in 1991, I was a member of Arabian Lodge, Dharhan Saudi Arabia, chatered by the UACGL). The lodge uses Minnesota ritual.

Masons from other jurisdictions, often work with other Grand Lodges, to get lodges underway. A group of Masons in Huntsville ALA, requested the Grand Lodge of Kentucky, to charter a lodge in Huntsville. (This was back in the early part of the 19th century, there was no Grand Lodge of Alabama). Huntsville Ala lodge #1, was chartered by GL of KY, until the GL of Alabama was formed later.

A group of Masons in Hawaii, requested the GL of Calif, to sponsor a lodge in Hawaii. The early lodges in Hawaii were sponsored by the GL of California, until Hawaii got their own Grand Lodge in 1989.

Freemasonry was formally established in Hawaii by Joseph Marie Le Tellier, Captain of the French whaling barque "Ajax" when he warranted Lodge Le Progres de l'Oceanie No. 124, of the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite of the Supreme Council of France on April 8, 1843, in Honolulu. This was a French lodge, operating in a Pacific island kingdom, which would later be an American territory, and then a US state. No one seemed to lose any sleep over jurisdictional lines.

The first operating lodges in the American Colonies, were British military traveling lodges. During the revolutionary war, lodges operated on American military camps. Military traveling lodges have operated on military camps both in the USA, and overseas. Land, Sea, and Air lodge #1 (new York) operated in WW1, WW2, Korea, Vietnam, and Iraq. It could operate anytime, if the GL of NY would issue a new operating charter. The charter now hangs in a museum in New York City.

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WHERE? Where are these lodges? I have been working in Iraq and Afghanistan since February 2004. I serviced computers at every base in Anbar province (Iraq), and I worked in Baghdad and Kabul. I have installed video cameras at every base in Khost province (Afghanistan). I have met masons all over these two countries, and I have made hundreds of inquiries. In six (6) years, I have never found an operating regular lodge anywhere in SWA. I have lived in Kabul and Baghdad. I have flown about 130 missions to different bases all over SWA. I have never found an operating lodge, anywhere, other than Prince Hall or Canadian.

Why do you, who live in the USA, think there are regular lodges operating here, when I, who have been to about seventy different bases, in the past six years, tell you there are not?

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This happens all the time. Masons who were living in Alabama, from many different jurisdictions, got the GL of KY, to charter a lodge in Huntsville ALA. A French Mason set up a lodge in Hawaii, and later the Grand Lodge of California chartered lodges in Hawaii, until Hawaii got their own Grand Lodge in 1989, thirty years after Hawaii became a state.

Masons work across jurisdictional lines, all the time, for the benefit of Masonry. The Grand Lodge of Massachusetts charters Stability/Concorde Lodge number 19/42 in Paris France. The lodge meets in the building of the National Grand Lodge of France. The lodge uses the California ritual. If masons did not work together, across jurisdictional lines, there would be no American lodge operating in Paris France. ( I was a member of this lodge, when I lived in Paris, France).

Please listen to me, and you can take this to the bank: I will NEVER give up trying to establish a working lodge in South-West Asia. I was stationed at Al-Asad Iraq, and a mason there was killed by a roadside bomb. He was torn in half from the crotch to the neck. We wanted to have a lodge of sorrow, but because our charter was hanging in a museum in New York City, we could not.

I will continue to work with Masons both here in SWA, and in the USA, and in other countries, to establish a working military traveling lodge. I will work with any Mason, anywhere, from any jurisdiction, who is willing to extend the Gentle Craft, to our soldiers and civilians here.

The soil of Iraq and Afghanistan, is red with the blood of Masons, who have died here in the war on terror.

Traveling military lodges have existed on military camps and bases, almost since the beginning of Masonry. People attack me, like I am starting some radical new idea, that is contrary to the landmarks of Masonry. All I want to do, is to continue in our splendid tradition.

I even dare to dream, that Masonry could take root in Iraq and Afghanistan, and remain here, and thrive, once the military action is completed. The establishment of working lodges on the bases here, even though local nationals are forbidden entrance to the bases, and cannot participate in the lodges, might help in the future, for masonry to have a permanent presence here.

I am sad, that the forum has chosen to stifle discussion, on this important topic. No matter. I will continue to work to establish a masonic lodge in SWA, with anyone who cares to assist. I am continually astounded, that the Grand Lodges in the USA, choose to let Prince Hall and the Grand Lodge of Ontario, take the lead.

You must realize, that not all Masons here in SWA, belong to Grand Lodges, that have fraternal relations, with Prince Hall masonry. If a mason (like myself) even goes to a masonic dinner, and does not attend a tyled meeting, he is in danger of being brought up on Masonic charges, and could get suspended or expelled from Masonry. If a KY mason attends a tyled meeting, he will be permanently expelled from Masonry. If a man takes the degrees here at a PH lodge, when he returns to the USA, he might not be able to join a non-PH lodge.

Some have suggested that I request my own Grand Lodge, to get a charter. Well, I can tell you, that ain't gonna happen. I once set up a Square and Compasses club, just to have fellowship. The word got back to some Masons in my home state, and they were furious. I got word back, that I was going to be brought up on Masonic charges. If you think that the Grand Lodge of Kentucky, would consider setting up a lodge in SWA, you are in fantasy-land.

The Grand Lodge of New York, asked me to work with them to continue with their lodge in Iraq. Then they asked me to send the charter back, to be displayed in a museum in New York City. I sent it back in December 2005. The charter is still in the museum. I asked for a replacement, but it will never come.

I have never requested a charter from the GL of Massachusetts. Maybe I should.

So, in closing, I will continue to work, to establish Masonry here in SWA. (Outside of Prince Hall and Canadian). I believe that the USA Masons here, military and civilian, have the right to enjoy Masonic labor and fellowship. Of course, we can have our Square and Compasses clubs, and our cigar clubs, but it is not the same, as a working, chartered, degree-granting lodge.

I have met several men of good will, both here, and on other forums, who have given me some good counsel and advice and assistance. I was once disciplined, just for making a phone call to a New Jersey Mason, to get some advice. I was accused of using the Grand Lodge of New jersey , to solicit money. The charge was ludicrous, but I got "spanked" anyway.

Masonry will come to the troops and civilians here. If I can help, I will. Trust me on one thing, I will never give up. When my time is concluded here, I will continue to work with anyone, who wants to bring mainstream USA masonry to the heroes and civilians here.

I have been pushing to get Mainstream, USA Masonry, to set up a lodge for our heroes, for almost six years. I have found some support and encouragement. Mostly I have met with indifference, discouragement, criticism, and outright hatred. Some even claim that I have "set back" the cause. These men never get specific.

"Never Give up. Never, never, never, give up". Winston Churchill, Freemason

"The opposite of love is not hate. The opposite of love is indifference". Elie Wiesel, Holocaust survivor, Nobel Prize winner.

"If you do nothing, you get nothing" Aung San Suu Kyi. Nobel Peace Prize winner. (20 years under house arrest).

"It does not require a majority to prevail, but rather an irate, tireless minority keen to set brush fires in people's minds." Samuel Adams, revolutionary.

DO not ask me to give up. Do not ask me to be indifferent, Do not ask me to do nothing. Do not ask me to stop setting brush fires.

Respectfully Submitted,

Charles E. Martin
Kandahar, Afghanistan.

Masonic lodge at Kandahar, Afghanistan

If this lodge is in communications with my home Grand Lodge(s), I will be delighted to participate!

"...Canada Lodge held our first Ceremonies of Initiation on the evening of October 7, 2010 here at Kandahar Air Field. Initiated were Major Robert Kelly and Corporal Satraj Toor. As you can see from the photos, our lodge is now beautifully furnished thanks to the generosity of the brethren from back home. Due to operational requirements we did not (all who had parts) have the chance (though try we did) to do a complete run through before the big night. If I may say so myself, the ceremony was done as well as any I have seen back home (in my limited masonic experience, mind you). All of the parts came together seamlessly and it was quite evident that all of the brethren had put their heart and soul into the perfection of their work. I am truly honoured to have been a part of this historic masonic event. Our evening ended with a truly Afghan flavour as we were posing for photographs we came under rocket attack and had to hit the floor (pictured). [JCW] I have posted the pictures and captions on the website at the following link. A recent lodge installation in Courtenay was interrupted by a power outage. It seems a rocket attack is considered a similar annoyance. "Where two or three are gathered together..."

http://www.grandchapter-bc-yukon.ca/canadalodge.shtml
__________________Gord Vokes,
Prince of Wales #100, Landmark #128; GL BC&Y
Gord

Posts: 348
Joined: Mon Oct 13, 2008 5:42 pm

For the record: I am NOT a soldier.

For the record: I am a CIVILIAN technician, working in Afghanistan. I do not want any confusion, nor anyone thinking that I am a soldier. I served in the US Air Force, 1973-1978, and I was honorably discharged. I am proud of my military service, but I am now way too old and too fat, for military service. I consider it an honor to work with our fine soldiers and Marines. (The US Navy is in charge of the project I am on). But I am not fit to wipe their shoes. Please, do not assume, that because I work in Afghanistan, that I am a soldier. Thanks.

Ten days in Kandahar

I have been here for ten days. I have a decent tent, the chow hall is fine. The work is OK, still learning. I have connected with some Masons here, but I cannot participate in the lodge, as it is Prince Hall affiliated. So there.

I should be on this project 5-6 months. The work is excellent, I really like it. I am not crazy about the schedule 7-7 7days a week. At least the tent is quiet.

Winter is on the way, the nights are cool, the afternoons are spectacular. After all, this is a desert, and the skies are not cloudy all day.

I do miss television, I never get to watch TV. I have to pay $100 a month, to get internet service. Even then it is slow, and I cannot watch YouTube.

I have been getting some interesting emails, from masons. I got a nice email from a woman freemason in Nigeria.

If anyone wants to donate items to the troops, I will be more than glad to distribute the items. Christmas is coming. We could use tobacco, coffee, candy, snacks, beef jerky, etc.

Kandahar

Been here less than a week. I was very stiff and sore from the trip. My butt is still sore. 13 hours in a small airplane seat, will do that to you!

Just now, I am trying to get over the jet-lag. It is 3:45pm, and I want to sleep.

I am grateful for everyone's kindness at my dad's passing. He is up in heaven now, probably playing bridge, and eating chili. That was his idea of heaven here on earth.

I am continually amazed at the quality of the chow hall food here in Afghanistan. it is light-years ahead of anything I ever had, when I was in uniform 1978.

2d day in Kandahar

Been here for two days. Food in chow hall is good. Had polish sausage and sauerkraut. No eggs will be served here, though. I have a decent tent, but the air conditioning is on 24 hours a day. It is much hotter in the day, than I had planned for. I will need some more hot weather clothing. My supervisor is very nice, he will be heading out for the USA in a couple of days.

I am still stiff and sore from the travel, I got some pain medication, and a shot today!

Kandahar Afghanistan

I am safely in Kandahar. The flight over was not terrible. Small seat, lousy food, only curried vegetables. I spent the night in a hotel in Dubai, and flew to Afghanistan this morning.

I am living in a tent, eating in a chow hall.

I will begin my work orientation next week.

Kandahar Afghanistan

I am safely in Kandahar. The flight over was not terrible. Small seat, lousy food, only curried vegetables. I spent the night in a hotel in Dubai, and flew to Afghanistan this morning.

I am living in a tent, eating in a chow hall.

I will begin my work orientation next week.

In Dubai

I left from Dulles Airport (WashDC), Saturday night. I flew to Dubai (UAE), where I arrived Sunday night 6pm. It was cold in DC, but warm in the UAE. The aircraft picked up a tail wind, and we made the trip in 12 hours.

I got my luggage, and cleared Dubai customs. I then got a shuttle ride to the Primier hotel. I am in my room now.

I got soup and a salad in the hotel restaurant. I am going to get some shuteye, and get an early flight to Kandahar in the morning.

My father has passed to the Celestial Lodge

Last Monday, October 25, my father passed to the Celestial Lodge. I was with him in Bowling Green, KY. We put him in the Hospice, after 30 days in the hospital. He was in the Hospice for four days. I stayed in the room, with him, that final night. I got up at 0400am, and I could not hear him breathing. I reached over, and checked the carotid pulse. He was gone.

I shall miss him terribly. He was 80, and he had a full long life. He had a laugh, like roaring thunder. He would not want us to cry.

I will be leaving for Afghanistan, next week. I will be too busy to miss him.

Traveling on to Afghanistan

I have been assigned to Kandahar, Afghanistan. I will depart next week. I am grateful to be working, and this is a fine company. I am grateful for all of the wonderful comments and e-mails sent by the readers, these past years. I hope that my blog has brought you some enjoyment. I am flabbergasted, that I am approaching the 10,000 hits mark! I can't believe that 10,000 times, someone has read this blog.

I will be doing unclassified work, documenting electronic circuits. I am excited about this project, we are saving lives.

I will try to keep you informed of what I see and do there. The schedule is rough, 12 hours a day, 7 days a week, but I should be able to get some blogging time in.

At work

I started this new job on Monday August 9. I have doing my in-processing, and getting my ID badge, etc. There is always a lot of paperwork and procedures, when starting a new job.

I will be here in Lorton VA, for some weeks, and then I will be returning to South-West Asia. This assignment looks to be challenging and rewarding. For the time being, I will be learning, and getting my orientation, and getting up to speed on the project.

The people here seem to be fantastic. I must say that my first impressions have been extremely positive.

August 2, 2010 Alexandria VA

I was working in Afghanistan, and the contract ended. I got back home 18 Jun, but I just never got around to making any new blog posts. I interviewed with a firm, and the firm hired me. I will begin work August 9, if the paperwork is all in order, and the employment is approved. I signed the offer letter today.

I have been working in Iraq/Afghanistan for 6 (six) years, and it is a long time. I have not been there continuously, of course, but it is a hard grind.

I have been spending the past several weeks, relaxing, watching TV, cooking my own meals, and taking long relaxing baths. It is great to sit down in a tub.

I do not have my assignment yet, but I will be going back to South-West Asia.

Monday night in Afghanistan.

Went to work this morning, 12noon. The chow hall served chicken fillets, and french fries, also chili. Supper was fried chicken, rice, green beans. I am eating so much less here, no ice cream, my belt is down two notches already.

I am running out of clean clothes, so I will do laundry tonight, when I get off work at midnite.

Work today was unusual. I had to go up on the elevator truck, and I get vertigo real bad. I guess that I will get used to it. I took a spray jar of soapsuds, and sprayed some inflated plastic, to check for leaks. I found some, and marked them with a felt tip pen. Tonight in the wind, I went out with adhesive and patches, and patched the pinhole leaks. Similar to patching a bicycle tire.

I am on garbage detail this week. Two days ago, I put on rubber gloves, and got on my knees, and scrubbed out the bathroom. This, after 5 1/2 years in college.

This is undoubtedly, the worst contract I have ever had.

Where Masonry stands in Iraq and Afghanistan

There is both good news, and bad news about Masonry in Iraq and Afghanistan. (I have been working in South-west Asia for six years). The bad news, is that after all these years, there is not one working F&AM lodge, chartered by any mainstream Grand Lodge, anywhere in South-West Asia. Not one.

There are a number of working Prince Hall lodges, operating on the various military bases in Iraq/Afghanistan. Most of these are chartered by MW Prince Hall Grand Lodges of Oklahoma and Texas. Victory Base Complex (Baghdad), has four working lodges, and two Eastern Star chapters, all Prince Hall affiliated.

The Grand Lodge of New York F&AM, holds the charter for Land, Sea, and Air Lodge #1 (UD). This lodge was first chartered in 1917 (World War I). The lodge was de-activated, and then brought back for WW2, Korea, Vietnam, and its most recent activation was Sep-Oct-Nov 2005. (Send me a PM, and I will send you the link). I volunteered to assist in the administration and activation of LSA#1, in November 2005. I had the traveling charter with me, at Al Asad Air Base, Iraq. In December 2005, the Grand Lodge of New York, directed me to return the charter to New York, so that it could be displayed in a museum in New York City. I was promised, that a new traveling charter would be issued, next year (2006). I never received a new charter.

If a military or civilian Mason, serving in this part of the world, wishes to participate in Freemasonry, the only route is through Prince Hall Masonry. If a man holds membership in a Grand Lodge, which does not recognize Prince Hall Masonry, he risks suspension or expulsion. If a man holds membership in more than one Grand Lodge, and all of his memberships are not in communication with Prince Hall Masonry, he risks suspension or expulsion.

There are a number of informal Masonic assemblies here in SWA. I started a “Masonic Square and Compasses Club”, at Al Asad. It was not a working lodge, just a bi-weekly meeting, where we would drink a soda, and fellowship.

The Grand Lodge of Nebraska F&AM, developed a program, to enable Masonry to be practiced in Iraq/Afghanistan. They produced a “Lodge in a box”, which included all of the working tools necessary for Craft Masonry, including a charter. They called these portable lodges “Swisher Kits”, named after the first Nebraska Freemason to be killed in Iraq. The program never got off the ground, because several Grand Lodges made it known, that they would not accept degree work, from any of these temporary lodges.

It has been a real disappointment to me, that I have been working in Iraq/Afghanistan since 2004, and I have never been able to attend a lodge meeting. I am also disappointed, that not one Grand Lodge in the USA, has shown any initiative to issue a traveling charter, for a military lodge in this part of the world.

“The opposite of love, is not hate. The opposite of love, is indifference"- Elie Wiesel. Nobel Prize winner, and holocaust survivor

Saturday afternoon

I work 12 hours a day, 7 days a week. We have our slow periods, but Thursday was awful. The food in the military dining hall is usually pretty good, but today was a loser. For lunch they had hot dogs and macaroni and cheese. I ate a bowl of Special K cereal. For lunch, it was shepherd's pie, shredded lamb with mashed potatoes on top. I ate a salad, with ranch dressing, and a bagel with cream cheese.



The nights are still cold in Afghanistan. I feel like I will never be clean again. This place is so dusty, and the garbage pit, where the garbage is burned produces smoke.



May 20, was the bloodiest day for dead soldiers in 2010. A contractor was killed at Bagram (I was stationed there for three months).



Today was not too bad, I drove the forklift truck, and moved some lumber and building supplies around. I also helped on a project, where we prepared a cable for shipment to the USA. I had to wear rubber gloves, and smear epoxy sealant on the work. I enjoyed it.



There was a new pair of boots that no one wanted, so I latched on to them myself.



Keep up with my progress on the blog!

Saturday night in Zormat

The day started out quite beautiful. I got up, and walked down to the chow hall. The lunch was four tortillas, with ground beef, and salsa. I made a couple of enchiladas. I walked back to the office. The sky was clear and blue. The sky in Afghanistan can be quite spectacular.

I watched the TV screen for a while. Then I helped haul the balloon down. The sky looked a bit threatening.

Supper was unusual. The chow hall served meat loaf. It was little blocks of ground beef, about 2 inches per side. I ate some with strawberry soda.

Evening is quiet. When the balloon is down, there is little to do. My co-worker is refurbishing an old motorcycle. He also does some carpentry work. When the Army needs something sawed or cut, he is always there to volunteer.

I wish I had some leisure activity. I work 12 noon to 12 midnite, 7 days a week. When I get up in the morning, it is all I can do to, put my clothes on, and go to the office (about 100 yards away). This morning, there was some gunfire, the Army must test their big guns, so BOOM every 15 minutes or so.

Got my first paycheck with the overseas bonus. I got no serious issue with the pay. I am certainly no expert on this technology. What the hell do I know about balloons? And the weather? and how to spot wind drafts at 1000 feet? I feel like a real idiot, bending my neck back and staring at the sky.

I am only here for my in-country orientation, Then I will be transferred to another base. It will probably be another small base like this one. I just hope that all of their equipment is installed, I dread having to take a set of this equipment from the crates, and then installing everything.

Wednesday night in Zormat

Like the film "Ground Hog Day", this place never changes. I work from 12 noon to 12 midnite. We have busy periods, and slow periods. Today, I took an air compressor, and blew the dust out of the air conditioner. Somehow, the filters were installed backwards. I cleaned the same air conditioner last week, and the filters were installed properly.

I had to assist in filling the balloon with more helium today. It was interesting, to haul the hoses, and assist. We brought the balloon down, and it was about my fifth time here, helping on a down-haul. I am getting the hang of it, I wish was more expert.

After completing the re-fill, I helped hang some protective blankets on the balloon platform. The blankets are industrial plastic, with metal fillings, imagine a bullet-proof vest that is 20 square feet. The blankets are heavy, I strained by hands, holding them.

I am charged with garbage removal, and it is amazing, how much garbage 6 men can generate. I collect it during the day, and then at 1000pm, I haul it to the base dump, to be burned.

I don't know if I can stand 12 months in this dump. I am at Zormat for training, and then I will be pushed on to another base. It will probably be a small forward operating base, like here. If it is really terrible, I will have to re-think my employment situation. There are a lot of jobs in the USA, they do not pay so much money, and they do not have the tax-free status of overseas work.

Food here is about what I expected. I was in the chow hall at 1130, exactly when they open up. For lunch, there was chicken nuggets, cold, and french fries, also cold. I ate some, and they felt like lead bricks in my gut.

Dinner was good roast beef. Thoroughly marbled and stringy, with big globs of fat hanging off it. Also mashed potatoes and peas and carrots. A decent salad, also. Dessert was sara lee pecan pie, and M&M candies.

Back to the office after dinner, slow today. I did a cross word puzzle and a cryptogram. This base is entirely gravel. The rocks do a job on my feet, I must wear combat boots. Someone left a brand new pair of boots in the office, so I decided to "glom" them. ("glom" is a Yiddish word for "take"). I used to live with a Jewish woman, and she taught me a bunch of Yiddish words.

Saturday night in Zormat

Fairly pleasant day here in Zormat. The guys decided to grill some burgers, and I had two, and they were delicious. The weather was clear, so we flew the balloon for some hours. In the afternoon, we hauled it down. I am getting more practice with raising and lowering the balloon.

Dinner tonight, was cajun rice, and fish fillets in spicy sauce. I ate some salad. I could really use some decent desserts. I will lose weight here, I always do.

Biggest hassle, is the depression. I am working 12 hours a day, 7 days a week. When I get off at midnight, all I can do, is go back to the trailer, and try to sleep. I get up around 1100am, and get dressed. The dining hall opens at 1130, so I eat, and the get to work at 1200noon.

Summer is coming to Afghanistan. At least I will not freeze, working outside.

Three days on the site

I am at Zormat, Afghanistan. Possibly the bleakest outpost I have been assigned to since I have been working in Iraq/Afghanistan. I flew in by chopper, on May 1. I have a decent trailer, clean and quiet. One other man is in the trailer, he works 12 midnite to 12 noon. I work 12 noon to 12 midnite, so I have the trailer all to myself when I am off duty.

This is a rough assignment. I have to learn new technology, I work the balloon. I also work the electronics and cameras. I never even saw a balloon until 13 April in Akron Ohio. I now must be proficient in operations.

I also have to learn how to work on a lift-truck. Today,I drove the lift-truck around the camp, and ran the elevator up 40 feet. I am not used to heights. We were caught in a cloudburst, and I was soaked, the rain was like needles. We brought it down, and I got in out of the rain, and changed my clothing.

I enjoy hearing from readers, if you have anything you wish to comment on, please feel free.

Charles E. Martin
Forward Operating Base Zormat
Afghanistan

in Afghanistan

I flew from Fort Benning GA, to Ali Al Saleem, Kuwait. I stayed in the tent city there, and I flew to Bagram, Afghanistan two days ago. I flew from Bagram to Sharana Afghanistan, where I am now (Friday nite, 730pm Afghanistan time).

My duty station is Zormat, Afghanistan, I will get a helicopter ride there soon. I am glad to finally be near the end of the long journey!

Looks like we may be leaving

I have been cooped up in this airport terminal for a week, waiting out the volcano eruption. What a hassle. Sleeping on a cot, no hot water in the shower. The army brings in food in plastic tubs for us to eat. Really awful.

But the rumor is that we can fly tomorrow (Friday 23April). The Army tries to keep such things as schedules, confidential, but you cannot keep a civilian airline flight a secret, when it is published all over the internet.

I am glad to be getting out of here. But I am apprehensive on this new job. I do not know anything at all about balloons, I never saw one up close before two weeks ago. Now I will have to drive them. I guess it will all come clear to me in the field.

This schedule is going to be rough. We have to work 12 hours a day, 7 days a week. I would like to have some time off, I need it.

Stuck at Benning

Well, I started my new job on 14 March. I flew to Cape Canaveral Florida, and started training there. After two weeks in Florida, I flew to Akron Ohio, for balloon school. I had never seen a balloon up close before. I learned how to drive the cables, and raise and lower the balloon.

I then flew to Fort Benning Georgia, to catch the plane to Afghanistan. The day before I was to leave, the volcano blew in Iceland. I have been stuck here at the Airport for a week, sleeping on a cot. The Army brings in food three times a day. I need a shower, but there is no hot water in the terminal building.

I need to post more often

Hello everyone! I was working in Iraq from late January through early March. I was picked up by another firm, and I flew back to Alexandria VA. I have been here at my home, getting my paperwork in line, and getting medical/dental exams,etc. Starting a new job in Iraq is a hassle. I should know, I have been working there for six years.

I will fly down to Orlando FLA on Sunday 14 March. Then I will rent a car, and drive to Cocoa Beach FLA. I will stay in a hotel in Cocoa Beach, and begin a two week training course in Cape Canaveral FLA. At the conclusion of the course, I will go back to Fort Benning again, and then fly on to Iraq (or Afghanistan).

I have been feeling depressed, I should be feeling all right, but I don't. I do not like just sitting around, waiting for a new job to start..

A week in Iraq

I have been here for a week. After the usual jet-lag, I am getting more or less into a routine. My feet, legs, and back are in pain constantly. I have to do a lot of walking, and standing, I am not used to it yet. For two months, I have been sitting on my behind, in the house, surfing the net and looking for work.

I live in a trailer, it is called a "Containerized Housing Unit", or "CHU". The chow hall food, is typical of Iraq, excellent. I am amazed at how well our people are fed here.

This is a short-term contract, I will be here only 2-3 months, thankfully. My firm, will roll me into a contract in Afghanistan, when this project is completed.

Safe in Iraq

I flew from Dulles Field (Washington DC) Tuesday night. A 12 hour flight from Washington to Kuwait City Kuwait. The flight was ordinary, a long ride in a tiny seat. Food OK. Landed at Kuwait, and transferred to Gryphon airlines for the two hour flight to Baghdad.

Met at the airport by a company rep, and taken to transient barracks. Slept soundly. Got up next morning for lunch. Drove to a couple of sites. Then back in the bed for a long sleep. Getting over the jet-lag is tough.

My Iraq cell phone works, I can text back to the USA.

Heading back today

I am scheduled to fly to Kuwait tonight. I will fly on to Baghdad, then to my duty station. I am anxious to return to work, hanging out at the house, is tiresome.

Heading back soon

I am still an unemployed person. My previous contract completed on 8 November 2009, but I got severance until 28 November. On 8 Dec, I signed a new contract for work in Afghanistan. I still do not have a start date, here on 16 January 2010. I have a chance for some temporary work, and I will accept it, and do a project that lasts about 3-4 months, this is for a Florida firm.

I am anxious to get out of the house, and let the wife and her mother have some privacy. The MIL (Mother in Law) gets on my case all the time. Something always has her in a snit. It will be good to put some distance between me and the MIL.

I sent my TV link around to some of my friends, and they all got a chuckle out of seeing me on TV.

SEE ME ON TELEVISION!!!!

I was interviewed for the local TV station See

http://www.wjla.com/news/stories/0110/694864_video.html

(Cut and paste this link into your browser, or click on the link in the suggested links over here --->)

Back to the Roof of the World...

I was working up until November 8. I was laid off, and I joined the 11% of the USA population that is unemployed. I got two weeks of severance, and I began looking for work right away. I had a few nibbles, and a firm in Arizona was interested in me. But I am not able to move to Arizona at my own expense, and take a job that pays $35 per hour. I told the firm, that if you are recruiting nationally, that you should be prepare to stand the cost of relocating people.

A firm called on Friday (Dec 4) and indicated that I met their requirements for an Afghanistan position, and I said that I was very keen to return. I do not have an offer letter yet, but I should be getting an offer soon.

Another firm sent me a "contingency letter", asking me, to agree to accept a position with their firm, if they got the contract in Afghanistan. I signed the letter.

A recruiter in Fort Worth, Texas, asked if I would be willing to let her represent me, for an Afghanistan job. I agreed, and I sent them a letter of authorization. If their firm gets a contract with the US Government, and the firm makes an offer, then the recruiter will get a finder's fee.

My in-laws are in town, and they are interesting people. My FIL broke the water vase for my hookah-pipe, and there is no chance of getting a replacement. My MIL has been riding the broom, but she does not speak English. She can give me a cussing in her language, and I do not understand. She feels better, and my feelings are not hurt.

Erin, I need your email

I spent two weeks at FOB Boris in Afghanistan. If you send me your email, I will fill you in on the place. The old name for FOB Boris, is FOB Bermeil. The name of the post was changed in 2008. I suggest you google "FOB Bermeil".

Looking for work

I am again unemployed. I was laid off, due to the fact that the contract requirements changed. I was hired by a firm in Northern VA. This firm, loaned me out to another firm, which had a project in Afghanistan. All civilians who work in Iraq/Afghanistan, are required to spend a week at Fort Benning Georgia, for briefings, and to insure that their health is adequate, and they can spend time in a country with low-standard medical care.

I cleared Fort Benning five months ago, and I worked in Iraq June/July/August 2009. My new firm required me to go back through the Fort Benning process again, even though the school is good for one year. The Army found an old medical report, and required me to get another medical exam. The medical exam showed me to be completely healthy, and free of any possibility of cancer.

While I was waiting in the barracks, the prime contractor was informed that the requirements changed, so I was surplussed. If I had already been in Afghanistan, I would have been recalled, and had to fly back to the USA.

The result is, I am unemployed. My firm is assisting me in finding a new position, either overseas or here in the Northern VA area.

My current resume is at http://www.4jobs.com/charlesmartin

If anyone knows of any work I can do, please feel free to contact me.

Still stuck at Fort Benning

I arrived at For Benning three weeks ago, I thought I would be here for six days. My old medical screening was determined to be invalid, so I had to see a urologist in town (Possible cancer of the prostate). Fortunately,I am cancer-free. But the Army needs everything documented.

I had to have a needle biopsy. The doctor rams a 14 inch plastic dildo up your rectum, and then shoots 11 spring loaded needles directly into the prostate, and the base of the penis. The pain is unbearable, and there is no anesthetic. I had this procedure done, last Monday. I felt pretty good Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday, but on Thursday, I was unable to urinate for 10 hours. I called the paramedics, and I was taken to the emergency room.

I had a plastic PVC pipe inserted into my penis, and I passed 1000cc of urine. I was told that I must wear the catheter all weekend. I went in to see the doctor on Monday, and he told me that I must wear the device for two more days. It is now Tuesday, and I will see the doctor on Wednesday, and hopefully, have the catheter removed.

I must have the doctor submit the paperwork to the Army medical office, certifying that I am cancer-free. Then I can conclude the processing here at Fort Benning, and travel on Afghanistan.

Stuck at Fort Benning

I was informed on Friday 16 Oct, that I had to fly to Fort Benning on 17 Oct. I flew down at 0600am Saturday morning, and enrolled in the CRC school. I have to complete a week of training, medical exams, dental,etc. I was supposed to fly to Afghanistan on 23 Oct. Problem is, I was here in May 2009. I had a medical problem, and had to get a medical exam. I was cleared for international travel, and I flew to Kuwait on June 1.

When I went to the medical office here at Fort Benning on Tuesday the 19th, my old medical hold was still on the computer. I told the doctor, that I had seen a civilian doctor in Columbus GA back in May, and that I had just returned from Iraq on 6 September. Nevertheless, I was put on a medical "no-go".

I had to return to the barracks, and turn in my badge. I have been "disenrolled" from training school. I went to the medical clinic on Wednesday morning 21 Oct, and the nurse drew my blood for a blood test. The results should be in on Friday, and then I can see the doctor, and get another clearance letter. I will have to re-enroll in CRC on24 Oct, and go through the whole CRC process again. I should be able to get the military air flight on Friday 30 Oct.

I am stuck in the barracks, with no rental car. I just hang out in the barracks, or go to the recreation center and use the computer. Last night, I watched "The Bourne Identity", and "Jeapordy!".

My military protective gear arrived by UPS, and I showed it to the supply sergeant. I have all of the military issued equipment I will need for Afghanistan. I asked my dentist for a clearance letter, and the office assistant FAXed it in to me this morning.

This Army "hurry up and wait", is maddening. I am perfectly healthy, and I have been working in Iraq and Afghanistan for over 5 years. When I went to the clinic on Tuesday, I got the seasonal flu shot. I still need the H1N1 "up the nose" spray shot. It will be just my luck, if I ge the flu, when I am in Afghanistan.

The good news, is I am on the payroll. I am getting a pay check, for sitting on my behind in the barracks. I have medical insurance. I have all of my military equipment, and I have completed nearly all of the classes here at CRC school.

Once I see the doctor, and get the clearance letter, I will be good to travel. I can't wait to get back to Afghanistan.

On the job for a week

I was hired by a firm on 1 Oct. And- man is it great to be back on the work force. My previous contract concluded on 8 Sept. I started looking for work, from my desk in Iraq, as soon as I learned of the project's completion date. I did what I always do, just get on google, and type in "Iraq jobs". The jobs just pop up. Man, do I love the internet.

After I returned to the USA, I interviewed with a firm, and they were just drooling over me, and offered me a position on the spot. However, the firm did not get the government contract, so the offer was withdrawn. Another firm spotted my resume, and they offered me a position. I was out of work for less than a month.

I work for a firm, that has a great reputation. I signed on the payroll, and went to their office in Falls Church VA. They are a sub-contractor for another firm. The prime contractor is a major firm, that has a telecommunications contract in Afghanistan. I will work on an unclassified telecommunications project in Afghanistan.

Even though I have completed the CRC training (required of all civilians deploying to Iraq/Afghanistan) three times already, I must do the ritual again. CRC is the "CONUS Replacement Center". Which is kind of misleading. CONUS is the Continental United States, whic is the 48 states, excluding Alaska and Hawaii. When a Civilian is going overseas, he/she must complete the week of school and processing, at the CRC. I went through it the first time in August 2005, at Fort Bliss Texas(El Paso). I went through it again, in March of 2008, at Fort Benning GA. I went through it again, in May of 2009.

The prime contractor is in charge of getting me overseas. They tried to get me into the CRC starting on 9 October. There are so many people deploying to Iraq/Afghanistan, that there were no open spaces. Now they are trying for the class that opens on 16 Oct. You fly to Columbus GA on Friday, and report to the office on Saturday Morning. Then you spend a week in classes, and processing paperwork. You meet a formation at 0500am on Friday morning, and go out to the Army airfield, and wait a whole day in the terminal. That afternoon, you fly to Kuwait.

The last flight I took was great. You get on the plane, and then you fly to Shannon, Ireland. You de-plane, and spend four hours in the terminal. The plane is serviced, re-fueled, new crew,etc. Then you get back on the plane, and fly to Ali Al-Saleem Kuwait. You stay in a tent city, and try to get to your next destination. I got a military flight to Baghdad airport, and my supervisor met me. That was on June 2, 2009.

This week , I have been signing up for my company benefits, medical, dental,etc. A couple of days after I returned from Iraq, I got really sick, and had to see the doctor. Since Sept. 8 was my last day of work, I thought my medical insurance was paid through the end of the month. I saw the doctor, and had some tests. I found out that my firm cut me off the medical plan on Sept 8. I had to pay the entire costs. I got my FedEx letter, with the option to purchase medical insurance, two days after I started my new job. I gotta write my congressman. You need to have medical insurance when you leave a job, until you can get your own, or start a new job.

Going back to work

I was in for a job in Afghanistan, setting up video teleconferences. The firm was all ready to hire me, but the firm lost the contract with the Defense Department, to another firm. So my employment offer never came through.

Another firm saw my resume, and they decided to offer me a job in Afghanistan. I accepted. I will begin training school in Falls Church, VA on 1 Oct. This looks like a great job and the company is a major Fortune 500 firm.

I will complete the school here, and then around 8 Oct, I will fly to Columbus Georgia, and go through the Army preparation/training school once again. I have completed this school once in Fort Bliss, Texas in 2005. I completed it again in 2008, and again in May of 2009. This will be the fourth time that I have completed the processing. I should be flying to Afghanistan on or about 15 October.

Since the US made the deal with Kyrgyzstan, to utilize the base at Manas, I will probably be flying in there. Then I will get a flight to Bagram. My initial work will be in Kabul.

We bought a new house in Alexandria VA. I returned back here, just in time to assist in moving. Moving is the grandmother of hassles. A million things to do. I engaged a professional mover, to get the furniture and heavy items. It took all day, and cost $900. Then I got a U-Haul truck, and some of my church friends came out to the house, and we loaded the small boxes into the U-Haul, and delivered the goods to my new place.

For the past week, I have been unpacking, and putting my goods away. I also had to have some repairs done, including getting new lighting installed, getting a circulating fan for the master bedroom, new cabinet lights, etc. What a hassle. I also bought a lawn mower, for the first time in my life.

The timing worked out pretty good. I have completed the move, and I will just pack my desert clothing up again, and then begin school on Thursday. My mom and dad are driving here, and they will arrive on Saturday afternoon. We will have Sunday free, and then mom/dad will drive up to Syracuse, NY, and see my brother and his blended family.

This will be my fifth contract in Afghanistan. Here is the history:

Feb 2004: Arrived in Kabul, to photograph the civilian air traffic control equipment at the Kabul international airport. Most of the engineering work had already been completed.

Mar-May 2004: Hired by a firm to supervise a police radio upgrade project. When I arrived in Kabul, I was told to drop that project, and coordinate a drug eradication radio project.

Nov 2007: Assigned to FOB Sharana, to work a data collection project, supervising data collections on four bases in Western Afghanistan.

Sept 2008: Arrived in FOB Salerno, to assist in training soldiers in how to operate video cameras.

There is my Afghanistan history.

Back in the USA

Arrived back at Dulles airport Washington Sept 6. I went home. Spent Labor Day weekend, relaxing. On Friday I had a phone discussion with another firm, about a television project in Afghanistan. On Tuesday 14 Sept, I interviewed in person. The engineers past along a "strong recommendation", that I get hired. I should have an offer letter by Monday 21 Sept.

I have been sick! I had some blood in my urine, so I went to the doctor. I am scheduled for a cytoscopy on 1 Oct. The doc will insert a video camera up my private parts, and take a look inside. I find this ironic, I work in the video industry!

Airport

In Baghdad Airport. Flying out tonight to Kuwait City. My supervisor brought me to the airport. He did not offer to help carry my bags, and he did not shake my hand.

I am not glad about losing this job, but I am glad to be leaving here.

Going back to the USA

I am going back to the USA. My health is fine, I was checked out by the military doctors in Baghdad, and all the tests were normal.

I am glad to be getting out of this heat, and a chance to cook my own meals again. I get bored with chow hall food.

I will be looking for work, telecommunications and electronics, in Iraq/Afghanistan. I think I will get another contract soon.

In the hospital

I was having some heart palpitations. I checked into the military hospital, and I had a series of tests. All of them came back normal, and I am feeling 100% better.
 
Please keep me in your prayers, regardless. I am going through a rough time now.
 
 

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With Windows Live, you can organize, edit, and share your photos. Click here.

Added a new link. Please check in

I have added, by request, a link to a Masonic discussion board, in Turkey. The board has English Language capabilities. You can access it directly from this blog, or you can go to:

http://www.masonlar.org

I am more than glad to add any link on this blog, all you need to do, is ask, and if your link is of interest, I will post it here!

---------------------------------

HOT in Iraq today, about 114 degrees. I have been out in the heat, went to lunch a short while ago.

August in Iraq

I have not made a new posting in almost a month. I do make regular postings on twitter.com Feel free, to sign up on twitter, and follow me.

I finished my first road trip, and returned back to my home camp. There is a great deal of work here, and I will be very busy here. The firm hired a new man, and I have been giving him some orientation. He is heading to a base up-country.

July and August in Iraq, is the most miserable time of the year here. I first arrived in Iraq, August 15, 2005. I was in a concrete barracks, with air conditioning, so I did not mind it so bad. I really liked Al-Asad. I spent 16 months there, and I was "living large". I wish I could have stayed there.

Anyway, I am now here at Camp Liberty. I live in a "containerized housing unit". It is decent, good air conditioning, and I have my own shower and sanitary facilities. I do not have to walk 200 yards down a gravel path, to take the shower. The Army pretty much leaves us alone, but we have been notified, that "health and welfare" inspections will be starting soon. This means that the Army will be going through our living quarters, looking for contraband. Mostly they are looking for alcohol, drugs, pornography. An American was caught with empty beer bottles in his trailer, and the Army wanted to expel him. His company convinced the Army to let him stay.

Work here is seven days a week. 8am to 6pm seven days a week. Even if there is no work, we have to be in the office. I must say that I am impressed by the food here at Camp Liberty. They serve an excellent breakfast. Because of health concerns, you can only get hard-boiled eggs, and scrambled eggs. Omelettes are made with powdered eggs.

There is a whole family of fast-food here. There is Burger King, Taco Bell, Pizza hut, Subway, Cinnabon, Popeye's chicken, etc. Sometimes, I will pass on chow hall food, and get fast food.

I have been told that the US Dollar is to be phased out here, in October. This is strange to hear. I almost never use paper money here. I use my credit card at the PX. I have an "Eagle Cash Card", issued by the Army. It is a debit card, that I take to the finance office, and "load" funds from my USA Bank Account. Then I use the card at the barber shop, or fast food place, and the dollar amount is taken off the card. In five and half years in Iraq/Afghanistan, I have spent less than $300 in cash.

I started with this firm on May 4. On August 4, I had ninety days with the firm. Thirty days of that was in the USA. I spent two weeks in Florida, doing in-processing, getting my security clearance transferred, and setting up my direct deposit. I also had a medical exam. Then I spent a week in Fort Benning Georgia, going to classes in First Aid, and how to spot a roadside bomb. I also got some shots. I was all set to fly out, but I needed one more medical exam. I had to spend an extra week at Benning. I finally arrived in Iraq on 2 June.

I sure do not have much of a life outside of work. At 6pm, I walk across the street to the Recreation center. I watch Jeapordy at 6:30pm. If there is a decent show on TV, I will stick around, and watch "Law and Order". Last night there was a movie "Inkheart". By 800pm, I am usually worn out, so I walk back to the trailer, and take a shower, and climb into bed. I have a couple of books that I am reading, but I can usually get through only a few pages, before I am collapsing.

The generators here run 24/7, so there is no quiet in my trailer. By dawn, there are often helicopters flying over, so they wake me up. I get up by 7am, and walk to the office. I usually sweep the place out, and on Sunday, I mop the floor. I wish we could get some Filipinos, or other people to handle the janitorial work.

I do not like Iraq, but I like working in Iraq. This is my third contract in Iraq. I first did data collection. Then I came back, and worked a project where I supervised Iraqis, installing radio sets in Iraqi army vehicles. Then I came back on this satellite project.

I would like to stay for the entire year, but I may not. I would rather be working here, than unemployed in the USA. I would like to finish here, and return to the USA in 2010. By then, the economy should have picked up, and I will be able to find a position in Washington DC metro area.

Back to Belediyat

Back to Belediyat. I got the system on line, and then returned to Loyalty base. What a nice place! I have a real bed, with sheets. The chow hall is first-rate. The system was serviceable at Belediyat, and I have been waiting here for two days.

I found out this morning, that the system is off the spacecraft. I must now return to Belediyat on the night convoy. Then I will get the system back on the spacecraft.

I am out of clean laundry, maybe I can get some washed there at Belediyat.

Belediyat

I have just completed my first assignment. It is a great feeling to accomplish a task. I was told that this install would be easy, and that I would not have to use "tool one". Boy-was that wrong. I arrived up here at Belediyat two weeks ago. The equipment was not serviceable. I spent a couple of hot-sweaty days on a roof, trying to get it to run. I finally, disattached the dish antenna, and took the pedestal down.

I drove back to Liberty, and when I opened the pedestal, one of the circuit cards was burned. We scrounged a replacement, and I installed the card. Then I spent a couple of weeks trying to get a ride back here to Belediyat. I caught a chopper on Monday, and arrived. The army had to build a bed for me. I got started the next morning.

The antenna was not working properly, so I cracked open the case, and found that one of the gears was not attached to a shaft, and thus it was spinning freely. I did not have a correct allen key, but I found one. I got a carpentry crew to loan me a battery, so that I could turn the motor, and I set the gear properly.

This morning, I borrowed a compass, and pointed the dish antenna, and gave the equipment a run-through. I was able to capture the satellite, and it works great! I am glad that I was able to get this system up and running. Score one for me.

I am sure that everyone knows that the USA has turned over security in the Iraqi cities to the Iraqis. I read this myself. What the news reports did not say, is that now US military vehicles cannot even drive in the streets of Iraqi cities, except between midnite and 0500am. This means that moving around Iraq will be even more difficult for civilian technicians, and anyone who has to "float" between bases. What a hassle.

There are no convoys driving tonite, so I will catch one later. I will get a ride in a military vehicle, and go to Loyaltly base (20 mins away). Then I will catch a chopper to Liberty, a twelve minute ride.

Food here is pretty good. Since convoys do not run in the daytime, this post has set up a kitchen. They serve a decent breakfast. Since most of the soldiers do their duties in the middle of the night, the food schedule is breakfast at 1030am Lunch at 5pm, and supper at 630pm. Supper tonight was ground beef and pasta, so I had a slice of cheesecake for supper.

No TV here, sometimes they show a videodisc in the break room. At least here they have indoor plumbing. The latrine is just down the hall from my room. I forgot to bring a razor and cream, so I am letting the beard grow. The shower is weak, the water just dribbles out, and it is warm. But I can wash myself thoroughly.

So for now, I will just relax, and wait for the next convoy.

Monday

An awful dust-storm yesterday. It was so bad here, that the storm made the news in the USA. The internet was out, and phones were out. the Airport was closed. Today, the air is quite a bit clearer. Still gray and depressing.

I have to return to Beledia, and do an install. The equipment checks out OK here, I just hope it goes properly at the site. I want to keep this job, for the entire year, and perhaps go for an additional year. I hope so.

I got some additional clothing and bedding from my family. This was a godsend. I even have an additional laundry bag. The laundry service here is excellent. With the sweat and the dust, clothing gets nasty fast.

I wish I could sleep more soundly. I have a difficult time falling asleep, and then I must get up a couple of times per nite, to visit the bathroom.

My supervisor gave us the whole day off Sunday (Thank you, Mr. Scrooge). I slept late, and I got a subway sandwich. I watched a couple of movies at the Rec Center. "Duplicity" with Julia Roberts. I also watched some political broadcasts.

I will not be taking any vacation, during 2009. I prefer to take my time off, in between contracts. I have a strange list of priorities:

I like to cook my own meals. When I am here, I eat what the Army tells me, and on their schedule.

I like to watch cable TV. I like to go to the store. Call me weird.

Back to Beledia

On Sunday, I flew to Camp Loyalty, about a 12 minute flight from here. I was lucky, and I found a soldier,with a John Deere Gator. I loaded my duffel bag, and tools, and he took me to the transient quarters. I checked in with the Army, and made arrangements to get a ride to Beledia on Monday morning. I got up at 0600, for the 0630am ride.

I got to Beledia, and found the system was not working. I decided to return to Loyalty. I checked in with the office, and my supervisor told me to get back to Beledia, and dismount the system and bring it back to Liberty.

I spent a difficult night, on a cot, using my shirt for a pillow. Fortunately, there was a general officer in residence there, so the Army sent a hot breakfast over for everyone.

I dismounted the system, and caught a convoy, back to Loyalty. I had gone three days without a shower. I stored the system at the communications warehouse, and went to the transient quarters. I took the grandmother of showers.

Wednesday morning at 0800, I went back and got the system. Then I caught a convoy back to Liberty. I opened all of the equipment cabinets, and found that one of the circuit boards had burned out. I was able to find another board, and replaced the defectiver board.

On Thursday, I called the NCO back at Loyalty, and asked for arrangements to be made, to shuttle me and the system back to Beledia.

Thursday was a HOT day, and I was outside most of it. I washed off the system, and stored it in the packing crate. We had a nice barbecue last night, I offered to buy all of the food and sodas, but one of my co-workers bought everything.

I am finally able to sleep much better. I was able to obtain some sheets, that actually fit the bed. I also got a package of more clothing and underclothes. Keeping a reasonable standard of hygiene in this environment, is difficult!!!

Sunday morning

Went to the aiport last night, to fly to Loyalty base. Got on the chopper, and flew for 20 minutes. Then got off so the chopper could refuel! Then got back on the chopper, and taxied for 20 minutes, to the passenger terminal. Got off the chopper, weather hold! I got my firm to come and drive me back to the barracks.

It is now Sunday, and I must go back to the chopper pad tonight, and try again to fly to Loyalty base.

It is hot today, and dusty. But the sky is clear, and the choppers should be flying.

Saturday morning

In the last 24 hours, another 100 people have read this blog. I am amazed. I did not know so many people were interested.

Yesterday, was a HOT one. We had a bad dust storm, over the past 48 hours. The sun literally disappeared, and when the worst was over, the air was an eerie orange color. Everything had a half-inch of dust on it. We have been washing off the equipment, since the air cleared.

I assembled two satellite dish antennas yesterday, alone. It was hot and I sweated through my clothes. I have to drink 4 liters (a gallon) of water every day, just to keep up with the sweat.

I am delighted to hear from so many people, and especially brother Masons. I often get inquiries about Masonry in Afghanistan, but I do not know which bases have operating lodges. Best I can do, is refer these people to the Chaplain's office, and the recreation center. They can often provide the information.

I will be going to Camp Speicher, after my training and orientation is completed here. My firm has a house there, and my co-workers have informed me, that the quality of life there is good.

Last night, we grilled burgers and brats. I contributed a case of soda pop. The guys were up late, singing and playing guitar. Up till after midnite, actually. I got up early this morn, and picked up some of the trash from the revelry.

I would like to invite anyone who is interested, to follow me on Twitter.com

Just sign on to www.twitter.com and follow cemab4y.

Tuesday, the ides of June plus three (Ides of June is 13 June)

In the last 24 hours, 100 people have hit this webpage. I am astounded! I cannot imagine what it is that makes this blog so popular. I guess I will have to start posting more information.

I would like to hear from anyone who reads this blog. Feel free to leave a comment (This can be done anonymously), or email directly at cemab4y@hotmail.com

Hot and dusty today. Got my laundry. Tomorrow, I will go to the finance office, and get some US dollars. You do not need much cash here, but I would like to keep some around, just in case. Also I need to add some money to my debit card.

Finished my week

Sunday night. We get Sunday morning off, so I slept in till 1100am. Great. The air conditioner works fine in my trailer. This was an interesting week. I worked from 0800 to 1000pm Thursday, and it was rough. I got a pizza after work, and it was excellent.

I went to Burger King this morning, and tried to get a sandwich. My credit card did not work, so I went back to the office. I called the credit card company, and it seems that a retailer was hacked, and several thousand credit card numbers were compromised, so my account was closed, and a new number assigned. I explained that I was in Iraq, and I needed my account, so the closure was cancelled, and now I can use the old card again.

Last night, I went to the rec hall to watch "Law and Order". The music in the dance room was so loud, that I could not hear the program. I miss having my own TV in the room.

The food quality in the chow hall remains excellent. I am impressed, that the KBR people can do such a good job, in this environment. I am eating much better than I ever did, when I was on active duty 30 years ago.

I also miss Masonry very much. I have completed the year of suspension, and now I am eligible for re-instatement, and my friend R.B. Hooks Jr, will attend my lodge (KY) next week, and get my reinstatement completed. I still need a letter to be sent to New York and Massachusetts, so that I can have the suspension lifted in those states as well.

I am going to Camp Speicher ( pronounced SPY-ker) and I do not know if there is a lodge there or not. I plan to start a square and compasses club, if there is not one there already.

Believe it or not, I miss Afghanistan. The climate there is not as harsh, at least you have some elevation, so you do not broil in the sun. I drink 6 liters of water per day (about 1.5 gallons) and I still cannot keep my self hydrated. At least I can sleep well. I got some cardboard, and taped over the windows in the trailer, so that the sun rising at 4:30am did not wake me.

I installed a counter on this blog, and I am amazed that 50 or more people read this blog every day. I am astounded. I did not know I was so interesting. I wish more people left comments, and joined in on the twitter.com conversations.

Another day here

Still having a hard time falling asleep. The trailer is cool, the air conditioner keeps up. We have our own power generator here in this compound, the generator is 100 yards from the hooch. Why in the world we cannot use the main power from the camp, is beyond me.

The food here is good. Iraq has better food than Afghanistan. Here the rice and pasta is not overcooked. There is California iceberg lettuce on the salad bar. The chow hall does an excellent job. We still cannot have eggs that are not fully cooked. This means no over easy eggs.

I have not yet received any postal mail. I ordered some items from the USA, and I am getting some packages shipped here.

Tuesday

Had pizza for supper last night. Looks like another hot day here. If anyone is interested in the film "Brother's War", you can see the website:

http://www.brotherswar.info

I am not certain of the USA release date, I know that DVDs are available, possibly through www.amazon.com

Monday morning

Had a barbecue last night, excellent steaks! We talked for some hours, about all kinds of stuff, mostly why the moon always keeps one face towards the earth. Had a difficult time getting to sleep, had to take some Benadryls (sp?), to help me sleep.

I have had the worst case of jet-lag, I have had in several years. I usually get over the jet-lag in a week or so.

I turned in some laundry this morning, and I will get it back on Wednesday. I am going to be assigned to Camp Speicher, once my initial orientation is through.

Made some changes

I have set up the blog, so that you can read my latest "tweets", on Twitter. Also, what I post here, will be repeated on Twitter.

I will see how it works, and adjust it if necessary.

First post to twitter

Hello everyone!

A great day

Last night, there was a barbecue, and I was invited. I drove over to Camp Victory, but there was a dust storm, and I could not find the place. I just drove around for a while, and decided to drive back, before the darkness made driving impossible.

I went on a service call this morning, and helped with some repair. This job looks like it is going to be terrific, and I will be learning a lot about Satellite engineering.

The office got a 5,000 BTU air conditioning unit installed here, and the office is like a meat-locker. We will not be sweating in the office! I was going through the piles of junk in my room ,and I found a set of new bedsheets! I have been sleeping on the bare mattress.

I am about over the jet-lag, and I got a decent sleep last night. Problem is, the sun rises at 0415am, and the light and heat begin early.

I ate a decent breakfast, the chow hall here at Camp Liberty is decent. I had a good lunch, I will probably pass on dinner. Maybe I will go to the Recreation Center, and see a movie. Last night they showed "Frost and Nixon", but the dance music in the main hall, made it difficult to hear the film.

I met some people who smoke hookah, and I may attend their smoke sessions. Back at Taji, we smoked every night.

What a country!

HOT today

Got into the office early. It is going to be a HOT day. I will go on a service call at 1000am, and probably be there most of the day. I found out yesterday, that I will be going to Speicher (Iraq), when I finish the orientation period here. This is great, my firm has a house there, and I should have a good stay there. I still do not know about Afghanistan, I guess I will go there later this year.

New features here

I added a hit-counter, so now I can see how many people are reading the blog. I wish I had added that years ago. Also- I have added my blog to receive my Twitter "tweets".

I will be here in Iraq for about 90 days, and then I am traveling on to Afghanistan.

On the ground in Baghdad

I got up at 0100, so that the luggage truck could get me at 0130am. Then I checked in at the terminal at 0200. The roll call was at 0300, and the bus pickup was at 0430. The airplane took off at 0600, and landed and Baghdad International AirPort at 0700. At 0930 am my supervisor picked me up.

I had lunch, and then went back to the office. I have the jet-lag really bad. So I will be off to bed.

In Kuwait

I am at Ali Al Saleem Kuwait. I left Fort Benning Georgia on 28 May, and we flew to Shannon Ireland. (I did not see any leprechauns). We spent four hours in the airport, then we flew to Kuwait. I checked into a tent, and I slept for 12 hours!

I am now trying to book passage to Babylon (Baghdad's old name). I have a pass, and I will be headed up there shortly.

This is an interesting life, I lead.

Leaving tomorrow

My assignment has been changed to Iraq, for the initial 90 days. I will be in Baghdad for 90 days. Then I am to be assigned to Afghanistan. I cannot believe my good luck!!

An article about my overseas work

http://www.connectionnewspapers.com/article.asp?article=328552&paper=81&cat=104

A newspaper story about my overseas work

See:

In Tampa Florida

Flew to Tampa on Sunday (now it's Wednesday). I got the shuttle from my house to Reagan National Airport. Then I flew to Atlanta, and changed to a Tampa flight. Got into Tampa, got my rental car, and went to the hotel. Ordered some Chinese food, sat back and relaxed.

Went to the office Monday morning. Paperwork, checking in. Started some training.

I will have to go to Fort Benning Georgia for a week, then on to Afghanistan. I will not get any time back at Lorton, prior to departure.

Thurs nite. Pain in the A**

Sitting on the back porch, just chillin'. Listening to the oldies on the stereo. Then I heard a "thump" and a man yelling "Get out of here". I thought, just some kids messing around. Then I heard the man "Your front window is broken". Sure enough-the storm door was smashed to bits.

Called the police, hassle. Tomorrow, I have to get a new door. I am flying to Tampa on Sunday, this could not have happened at a worse time.

Confirmation of start!!

I heard from my firm on Wednesday morning. I start work (actually training school) on Monday May 4, in Tampa FLA. I set up my flight from Reagan National to Tampa on Sunday May 3. Now, I have to pack, and get my paperwork in order. I made hotel reservations, and I will be in Tampa for about two weeks. I may have to do the one-week training school at Fort Benning GA. I did the school in August of 2008, and the training is usually good for one year. If I have to do it again, I will.

I would like to get a week off and go to Kentucky. Maybe I can.

If you have questions

If anyone has questions about any topic, please email me directly, I will be more than glad to answer. I got a question about the air quality in Kabul. I have done a couple of projects in downtown Kabul (way back in 2004). I thought the air quality was fine, you are up in the mountains, and there is no industrial air pollution at all.

On my first trip to Kabul (Feb 2004), I developed a blockage in one of my lungs. I got an inhaler from the US Army doctor. There I was, at 6000 feet, operating on one lung. I had to climb 12 flights of stairs to get to the top of the airport control tower, and I was wheezing badly. I eventually recovered.

Tuesday night, Midnight

Got up early this morning. Made biscuits from scratch. I like to measure the flour, and the baking powder. I have a toaster-oven, that is perfect for a batch of biscuits. I also made some sausage and eggs. What a delight to be able to cook my own meals. I have been eating in chow halls since I first hit the ground in Afghanistan, February 2004. That was my first experience in Kabul.

I was hired by a firm in Reston VA. I filled out my security paperwork, and got a military ID at Andrews Air Force Base, Maryland. I flew on a civilian airplane from Dulles (Washington DC) to London. I then flew to Dubai United Arab Emirates. I drove out to the Al-Udied Air Base, and caught a military flight to Bagram Air Base Afghanistan. The place was primitive. I stayed there, then next morning I caught a chopper to Kabul. I photographed the air traffic control system at Kabul Aiport. I could not wait to clear out of there.

Any way- I am enjoying the transition back to ordinary life. I am getting used to driving again, on the freeways. I got lost Saturday night, and again this afternoon. It is easy to get disoriented. I went to the dentist, and I got a cleaning, inspection, x-rays. I have some deterioration in one of my teeth, I need to get a new crown, maybe.

I bought some hummus (chick-pea paste), and some stuffed grape leaves, and some pita bread. I find it ironic, that in Iraq and Afghanistan, it is impossible to get middle eastern food. I got hooked on hummus, when I lived in Saudi Arabia in 1991.

I got some small submarine loaves. I got some shaved ham, and swiss cheese, and I can actually make a sandwich. When you are eating in the chow hall, that is all there is.

I went to a discussion group on Sunday, up in Adams-Morgan, a district in Washington DC. It was nice to have an intelligent discussion with nice people. There was a man there , who is going to be assigned to China. I was in the foreign service from 1983-1988.

It is the end of April, and it is already getting hot here. Washington DC summers are the worst. HOT and sticky. I already miss the dry heat of the desert.

-I still do not have a definite start date for my new job. I am scheduled to start in Tampa FLA on May 4. I may have to wait an additional time.

In the meantime, I will be "living large". Taking tub baths, cooking my own meals, driving on the freeways, enjoying cable TV, and just "chillin".

Monday afternoon

Starting a new contract, there are 1000 things to do. I got the information package, and contracts in the FedEx last week, and there were about 40 forms to fill out, but nothing about medical. So I called the admin office and asked the person about medical forms. She said I will fill the forms out in Tampa.

I went to Wal-Mart, and got light bulbs, and an ashtray. Larisa said she quit smoking, but since her mom flew back, she has been chain-smoking. She will never quit smoking.

I bought paper towels, and mouthwash, and a decent plate to eat from. I have been eating from paper plates, and I decided enough was enough. I have rubbed holes in my jeans, and I got some iron-on patches.

I went to a meeting yesterday, it was at a mid-eastern cafe. I got some decent hummus (chick-pea paste) and some pita bread. I think it is ironic- In the chow halls in Iraq and Afghanistan, the Army does not serve middle eastern food! I had some good moroccan tea, but it costs $2.5o per glass. On the other hand, I got a bottle of water, and it was free.

I paid $17 for my snacks and $15 to park the car. I thought I could drive in to Washington DC on a Sunday afternoon, and there would be adequate parking. BOY was I wrong. I went to a district called "Adams-Morgan", and every free space in the area was filled.

I wanted to go to lodge tonight, but after all this hassle and driving around, I am going to give lodge a pass tonight. Maybe tomorrow.

Saturday night in Lorton VA

What an interesting day. My mother-in-law was staying with us. This afternoon, she flew back to Moscow. She is in the air, even now. Larisa has been trying not to act too depressed about it. Anyway, we can have a bit of privacy, now that we are alone in the house.

Today, a Census employee dropped by, confirming our address. I worked for the 1990 Census, in computer operations. I used to tell people, that I had a job that really counted.

I went to McDonalds for breakfast. I like their steak/egg/cheese bagels. I drank a cup of their industrial-grade coffee. I bought a copy of the Washington post, I usually read it on line.

I went to the grocery store, and bought a Boston cream pie. I have not eaten one in many years. I also got some lettuce and tomatoes. There is no Imperial valley iceberg lettuce in Iraq, there is a lot of Romaine lettuce. I must get filled of all the USA foods that I can, When I return to the desert, I will do without.

My suspension from Masonry will expire in a couple of weeks. I am anxious to return to being a Mason in good standing, in Kentucky. Then the Grand Lodge of KY will inform Massachusetts and New York, and I can go back to being a three-lodge mason again.

I went to MENSA on Friday night. Only one other person showed up. The group has dwindled.

Tomorrow is Sunday, I will probably sleep in. Larisa gets all mad, when I fry, the odors waft right into the bedroom.

I would like to visit a horse race track, before I return. There is a race track in Tampa! Maybe I can attend.

I get the most interesting emails. But I keep referring the inquiries here! If people would visit the blog, they can get updated more easily.

Back to work in Iraq or Afghanistan

I have accepted an offer of employment with a telecommunications firm. I will be flying down to Tampa, FLA in the next week or so. Then I will deploy to Iraq or Afghanistan. I may have to do that military training at Fort Benning GA again. This is great news, and I am looking forward to returning.

Things are looking up

My contract in Afghanistan concluded on 4 April 2009. I am in Lorton VA, seeking employment. If anyone has information or a job lead, please feel free to write me.

Anyway, today I interviewed (by phone) with an engineer in Iraq. The interview went very well, and tomorrow, I have a phone interview with the tem leader in Tampa Florida. If I pass the interview, I will be hired for this new project.

I have completed four (4) contracts in Afghanistan, and two (2) contracts in Iraq. If selected for this project, I will attend a training school in Tampa, Florida. Then I will return, either to Iraq or Afghanistan. Believe me, the quality of life in Iraq is better than the quality of life in Afghanistan. The US presence in Afghanistan is growing so fast, that the infrastructure (housing,etc) cannot keep up with the demand.

Iraq is drawing down in numbers, but the US presence will be there for many years. I work in Telecommunications, and Telecommunications is always the first in and the last out! I am looking forward to returning.

I will keep everyone posted.

Email from a friend

Good Evening Charles, Sorry to hear you are under the weather due to coming back to the US. I know when I went out West, I caught the chest cold thing and it took a week to get use to the new climate. Do you live in the Washington DC area? (Yes I do) If so I will be up there on a April 30 and 31. I have found a job working for a large engineering company who corporate HQ is in Washington. I am going there to fill in all the paperwork and from Washington going to Camp Lejeune for a month of training then to Afghanistan. I would like to shake your hand if you are feeling well and have the time on Thur. or Friday week after next.Douglas Seaman (phone number deleted)

Email from a friend

Good Evening Charles, Sorry to hear you are under the weather due to coming back to the US. I know when I went out West, I caught the chest cold thing and it took a week to get use to the new climate. Do you live in the Washington DC area? (Yes, I live in suburban Washington) If so I will be up there on a April 30 and 31. I have found a job working for a large engineering company who corporate HQ is in Washington. I am going there to fill in all the paperwork and from Washington going to Camp Lejeune for a month of training then to Afghanistan. I would like to shake your hand if you are feeling well and have the time on Thur. or Friday week after next.Douglas Seaman (phone number deleted)

Sunday afternoon

A quiet Sunday. It is Russian Orthodox Easter. I had a good supper last night. I fried two italian sausage links, and the house smelled like fennel and garlic. My mother-in-law has asthma, so she did not like the odor. My wife opened the windows, but kept the venetian blinds down and closed, so no air circulated.

I am suffering the effects of some kind of upper respiratory illness. I have not been sick one day in the last seven months in Afghanistan, and it is much more unhealthy up there. As soon as I get back to the USA, I get exposed to a whole new family of bacteria and allergens. My chest is sore, and I have a sore throat, and I am coughing a lot. I guess I will get over it in a couple of days.

I had a couple of bagels with strawberry cream cheese. I am enjoying drinking real american coffee, made in a drip coffeemaker. I also enjoy half-and-half in the coffee. I enjoy cooking my own meals for a change. Last night Larisa, sent me to the store for two containers of sour cream, and some whole-grain bread. I bought some spices. Army chow hall food, is bland, and they never use any spices. Even the chili is bland. I guess soldiers do not like spicy food. There is always hot sauce on the table, though.

It is a change to be in the house with two women. Larisa and her mom, have their own rituals. They do not have a good grasp on "kitchen science" and bacteriology. They leave a can of condensed milk, open, on the table for weeks. and they have left a can of creamed corn, on the counter for a week, open. Gross. I always make it a point to use only clean dishes and tableware. I have been washing the dishes in the dishwasher, because my wife does not keep a clean table.

Home a week

Well, it has been an interesting week. I was interviewed by phone, by Amber Healy, for a story in the local paper. And I just got off the phone with a photographer. I have been looking for work, and I have a couple of leads, hopefully, I can get back to Iraq soon.

It is good to relax, I have been in Afghanistan for seven months. Driving is a challenge, I almost hit a couple of pedestrians. It is difficult to get used to the traffic of Washington DC metro. And cooking my own meals! I can sleep the whole night, without aircraft waking me up! Biggest hassle, is my mother-in-law is here, and there is not much space for three people. The kitchen is small, and the wife and mother-in-law are always complaining. When I fry sausage, the odor goes all over.

Email from a fan!

Dear Mr. Martin,

Glad to read that you have made it home safely. Thank you for all you have been doing for our troops. I have been reading your blog for a couple of months trying to gain some insight into the needs of our troops. I am the mother of a deployed paratrooper. He is a (deleted)at FOB (deleted). I would trully appreciate any insight in regards to what they could use to make it easier. I know there is no px and they need hygiene and snacks. I also sent my son a box of laundry detergent after reading that you did your own laundry on Boris. In addition, I would like invite you to a web site I have recently found. http://www.anysoldier.com/. There is a forum and chat room that people use to try to figure out what to send etc. OPSEC applies there like everywhere else. Nothing is more important than the safety of our children.

Hope to hear from you soon.

Laurie (deleted).

Monday morning

A quiet weekend. I watched "The Sound of Music". This morning, I went to the car wash, and got the SUV washed. I went to Wal-Mart, and I bought some T-shirts. Then I went to Lowe's and Home Depot, looking for household grease, and a bathtub stopper. It is an adjustment to get back to normal life. Driving, and going to stores is strange. I went to Jiffy Lube, and got an oil change, and the differentials serviced. Then I went to taco bell. The chow halls in Afghanistan, cannot do mexican food properly.

I have a phone interview for a job in Iraq on Wednesday. If the interview goes properly, I will be heading back to Iraq.

Comment from Amber Healy

Good afternoon Mr. Martin,My name is Amber Healy, I'm a freelance reporter for the Connection Newspapers in Fairfax County, VA. Your blog popped up on my editor's desk this morning courtesy of the mention of your (safe) return to Lorton. I was wondering if you might be interested in talking with me a little about your time in Iraq and Afghanistan, what kind of work you do there, etc. Please feel free to email me at (DELETED) if you're interested.

I am delighted to hear from you! I am flattered that you are interested in a story about me. I called the paper, and left a voice mail for the editor, and I emailed you with my contact information. I am always delighted to work with the Fourth Estate. Please contact me, and we can set up an interview! Charles E. Martin

Back in the USA

I am back home in Lorton VA. It is good to have some peace and quiet, after 7 straight months in Afghanistan. I am enjoying "decompressing", I have been to the grocery store, and I have cooked my own meals. I actually made some coffee! I will find out on Wednesday, if I get to go to a training conference in Tampa Florida. I have not been to Florida since 1980, when I went to Walt Disney World.

Going back to the USA

I am heading back to the USA soon. For a well-deserved rest. Keep in touch on my blog.

Going back to the USA

I am heading back to the USA soon. For a well-deserved rest. Keep in touch on my blog.