intheair

AHHHHHH SHITTTTT!

2005-09-13T10:54:00.000+04:00

This is a greeting that is shared with my BEST BUD, he resides in Sandown NH. There was an anonymous comment from Sandown and can only imagine who the hell it was from. I never invited him to the post-SHIT now I'm gonna have to watch what I say. I've known Dave since my USMC days. I would have to say its close to 20 yrs that I've known him. I have nobody in my life other than wife and kids-Except DAVE. Dave and I traveled the world together and have done some questionable things. I always have to laugh when I think of us. I'm not a small guy by any means-well Dave isn't either. I will never forget the times we had in the Phillipines. We used to hit the ville aboard a mini-bike that was built for one. Yeah me and Dave both got are fat asses on that bike and headed to the ville. I think we have pics-we looked like the fattest twins and think thats what the unit referred to us as. The funny thing was, every body wanted a ride somewhere. You could always see us riding to ville together with all laughing and jeers. I usually don't hold back what I say-I remember a time when we were in Australia, I did just that. Dave and I were with a squadron of A-6s that went there for a mission. Unlike the army, rank structure is stressed, SGM was GOD-discipline was the game. Mind you the SGM had not a clue what airplanes were or what we used them for (thats right, a dumb F--k that stresses discipline and doesn't have a clue as to what the mission of the unit was for. This being the case he strutted around with nothing to do but be an ass. He expected coffee to be served or at least ready for him when he came in. Well, there was the time he came in and interrupted a maintenance meeting to ask where his coffee was. Nobody had the balls to tell him it wasn't ready. He asked several times and it got to a point where he was making a scene. Nobody knew what to say and nobody responded. So like the ass I am, I spoke up. I told the SGM that there was no coffee made for him, if he would give me his cup, I'd fill it up. I stated that I'd had the shits for the last couple of days, give me your cup and I'll shit in it for you. Well, needless to say there was dead silence-SGM really didn't know how to respond. Needless to say, I got stuck guarding the flag-yeah thats right, stand out at the flag pole and salute the flag. He never did say whether he appreciated my humor or not. I haven't changed much other than having less patience for idiots. Gotta go- (was that you bud)

SPF AND LIAR, LIAR!

2005-09-09T13:43:00.000+04:00

Well its no laughing matter, while your minding your business and doing your business the last thing you want to see is a fury black eyed rodent (THATS BEING NICE), damn rat staring you in the eye. While your in this position its a little hard to get away. The only thought that goes through my mind is what the hell or how the hell am I going explain this to my wife (how I got bit there). You always here about the gays and hamsters or hobby house trick they do for kicks, but explain to a DR, gettin bit there. Yeah that hole in the floor in the bottom right of the picture is one of the entry points (up through the sewer). Now all those foot prints on the counters and shelves are? You guessed it, shit tracks, NICE. Well lets get to the point of liar, liar. Yes, I lie, in fact if I looked the 10 Commandments up(I would have too), I think I'd hit 80% out of the 10. In fact, the only one I think I haven't broke is MURDER and with the worthless pieces of ------- that one may happen too (JUST KIDDING LOL). The older I get the less I lie and manipulate people, in fact people will tell in certain circumstances I should lie. Hell NO! If some dumb-ass is going to be stupid enough to ask if he's fat and he stands 5'0 and weighs 500 lbs., hell I'm going to tell him if he stands still long enough, I'll punch him in the nose and throw mud on him and he would look just like a damn pig. When it comes down to it, my wife will tell you I'm pretty honest and I would have to take that as a compliment (come on mom, put a plug in for me). Well the other day we were trying to eliminate rat food and came accross a hoard of chocolate that our fearless leader was hiding, he didn't know we knew. Erik asked if he had any the next day and he out and out LIED. Then in fun we confronted him and he again came up with an outlandish bullsit story you could smell stateside. Anyway he happens to run around and preach the GOSPEL and morality and your a naughty boy for this and that. I know its childish but there have been numerous bullshit and lying stories that have come out that has landed Erik and myself in hot water and were really getting sick of it. Anyway, I preach to my wife and kids, TRUST nobody. Those you least suspect, will bend you over. For you that bend me over and ask for forgiveness, I'll forgive, but I will never forget. Bend me over once and when you least suspect it, need it the most, you will never recover. NOW THATS THE GOSPEL, I live it, I preach it, you can't survive without it. Theirs always someone lurking, BEWARE of the wolf in sheep skin, their gonna try and GET YOU!

RAT KILLERS

2005-09-08T17:00:00.000+04:00

THE BLACK BOX OF DEATH-This box has a food tray full of wonderful DECON which is to make your red blood cells rupture and make them bleed to death-the only problem with that, is he may leave and we won't know if we kill'em or not. If you see the tape on the floor, this is where a shitter used to sit. The smell permeates up through the floor. This is torture because you have the shit smell continuously thoughout the office. It doesn't matter how often you brush your teeth you always smell SHIT.
Now this baby we nicknamed the THUMPER-it about snapped 2-3 fingers off Erik's hand-hey buddy you might be able to get a Purple Heart for that one
KILLER OF MICE-Now come, this is ridiculous. At best this is only going to piss the rat off. Now instead of running away and playing games with the Colonel, he's liable to jump off the file cabinet and start chewing on his neck. I'd hate to come in and see the Colonel laying on the floor because he had the shit scared out of him and he ran into the wall trying to get away. I have this vision of coming in the office and see the Colonel laying on the floor with a rat standing on his chest with an Iraqi flag saying is this all you have for me. Come on, you can do better than this you dumb SOB.
STICKY PAPER-come-on, the only thing this damn paper is going to do is be a mild annoyance and again just piss him off (like gum on a shoe). At most this will pull some hair out or rip some skin off. As for hair, who give a rats ass. EXACTLY, that is just what I want, a rats ass on a platter. Dammit, I want to see results, dead rat carcuss in a pile. You know what they say, if theirs one, theirs 20. In the days to come, I'll post a picture if were successful. Maybe Erik and I'll perform an autopsy. OK were bored.

RATS, RATS, RATS!

2005-09-08T14:22:00.000+04:00

Rats, rats, rats! Thats right G-damn rats, can you believe we have rats in our work place. I think if there were rats in any building back in the states as far as government buildings, their would be one hell of an outcry. Here its a day of life, yes, we seen dead rats in the office. The dumb SOB ate the sponge liners in our kevlar (thats the hats that we wear to keep the bullets from entering our brain cavities. The damn rat ate the foam liners that had salt and dander and G-damn hair in my case as it falls out. We know this because one of the soldiers noticed hunks of foam missing from his kevlar. We didn't know the culprit til we smelled the G-damn rotting carcus that had been there for quite some time because we couldn't figure out the smell til we happened upon it (we noticed the smell for weeks and couldn't figure out what it was). I only bring this up because the Colonel came back in the middle of the nite or early morning, only to see this rat running accross the desks, counters and shelves. Like what the hell are you going to do Colonel, he said he was chasing him around the office. I laugh because we were going through a box of clothes where he had seen one coming out of and as he was going through it I grabbed his arm and said RAT. Well needless to say this old man about shit his pants and his heart skipped 2-3 beats. I about pissed my pants I was laughing so damn hard. A Kevlar such as the one above claimed our first rat. We didn't do an autopsy but it had to be the killer. I know this to be an effective killer because my GRANDFATHER used to kill stray dogs which used to kill his sheep out on the praire. He used sponges soaked with gravy and lard which consequently killed him also by clogging his arteries. When the dogs came to get their sponge dinners, they choked the sponge down which gave them a bowel obstruction which in turn made them septic and killed their dumb-asses. He also used to take gunny-sacks, he would fit them over his hubcaps somewhat like you would put a trash can liner in a trash-can. Then he would drive up and down the road slow enough for the dogs to run and bite at the tires and get their teeth caught in the gunny-sack which would in turn, snap their necks. Ingenuity-hell you might be able to get a patent with this one.

THROWING SHOES

2005-09-05T06:38:00.000+04:00

O' WHERE O' WHERE HAVE YOU GONE!

2005-09-05T05:06:00.000+04:00

Well its 0500 in the morning, been up since 0300. I've been thinking of my wonderful wife. I placed several calls over the last couple of days with no luck (phone lines were down yesterday). I know you worked over the last couple of days and are probably tired, just miss you. Its race day this morning so as I'm blogging while keeping an eye on the race. On my way down to the office you have one those thoughts of? Where the hell am I? As I look off in the distance I see the palace completely dark with the exception of a few lights. Its pretty incredible just thinking of where I'm at and what I'm doing. The weather tonite/morning is just beautiful and somewhat cool (probably low 80's but very nice. Never thought I'd say 80 degrees was cool but it is) and the skies are very clear. You can just see the stars just bursting in the sky, just so brilliant and bright. Well yesterday was a slow day and everything Erik did just drove me crazy (whistling, clapping his hands, and then had his earphone in and jamming. Mouthing music, clapping and rocking back and forth in his chair). As this is going on he's trying to carry on a conversation with the Colonel. What he doesn't realize is when he's listening to music, he hears about 2-3 words out of a sentence. The Colonel repeats what he's saying 3 or 4 times, sometimes I'd like to rip that God-damn earphone right out of his ear. I don't think the Colonel knows that he has an earphone in or if he even knows what an earphone is. I got so frustrated or annoyed that I just started laughing instead of choking his dumb-ass. Yeah, I get on his nerves too. Well yesterday we threw horseshoes and you can see the pictures. Won one and lost one. You can also see my coffee cup that I forgot to wash or rinse out when I went on leave, MMMMMMMMMM. Let me get a knife and spread that wonderful mold on some bread. TTYL

ALL IN A DAY

2005-09-02T18:58:00.000+04:00

Wednesday started early, 0500 setup and 0600 shot clinic was up and running. It was an incredibly long day which finally ended around 1830 hours. The numbers are still coming in but would have to say Erik and I seen 200 plus soldiers with some soldiers getting 2-3 and 4 shots coming to a total of about 600 shots. By the end of the day we were fit to be tied, as people just kept coming. It will be interesting to see how many we actually did. Erik and I also did our debut in the show business as we made several public address announcement for the MN Army National Guard which will debut at Viking and Gophers games. It seemed a bit hokey but what the hey. PT (physical fitness test) scheduled for the end of the month so I've been getting up early to hit the gym. Eriks been complaining that my early morning workouts are bothering his beauty sleep. I've been hitting the rack early and he's been staying up late playing the X-Box, so I guess turnabout is fair play. Looking forward to hereing a post and seeing pictures of my son riding his bike without training wheels. I felt so guilty that my R&R came to an end without being able to put my sons chain back on his bike before I left which I never got too. The next door neighbors put the chain on but couldn't do much about training wheels (broken) which helped jump start his riding without training wheels. It always makes you proud to see your children make mileposts in life. Post a picture for me mom. Gotta go, love you all.

GOOD NEWS, BAD NEWS

2005-08-29T13:45:00.000+04:00

People ask why I've had so many careers, Jack of all trades and try to master everything came from the military. The military and a father which I've divorced myself from, gave me the inspiration for flying and flight (Licensed Private Pilot as well as A&P Mechanic). The military has a lot of rewarding opportunities but wouldn't wish them upon anybody. Military life at times can be exciting, educational as well as a lonely life (don't wish it upon anybody). The military is and has been my family for close to 25 yrs, it will always be. Its comforting to say, soldiers/Marines that I have served with will always have a place in my heart. Airplanes which have been a love of my life have also been the heartache of my life. This LOVE was taken away by a worthless and callous company (Northwest Airlines), NorthWORST Airlines. Being employed by this worthless company has destroyed my faith in human kindness and decency. I've always strived for perfection, this is my problem. In striving for perfection, if I see something thats not right, I make changes. While being employed with NorthWORST Airlines, I was told by and in no circumstances that I was to operate below standard and use my license (A&P license) to sign-off inferior work to save the company money (not to put MONEY in MY pocket. I did my job for the safety of the flying public which in the long run would have saved litigation as well as enhanced performance of the airline which in return would have put money in my pocket). Meeting standards and putting out work that would not endanger public was my goal. Refusing to sign work that was inferior and not to standard lead to harrrassment on the job and threats to my family as well poor and dangerous work environment (this harrassment was by both management and union employees). Now lets feel sorry for a company in bankruptcy and its employees that look for nothing but the almighty dollar. Want a job and more money, get off your ass and get an education and work for a living. As far as a company goes and a company in bankruptcy, you won't see excecutives taking paycuts. It would be just as well to see everyone in NorthWORST Airlines burn in hell. Need a match give me a call. GOOD NEWS BAD NEWS and lets return to fair play. NORTHWEST/NORTHWORST AIRLINES SUCKS, GO TO HELL, BURN IN HELL, let the suffering begin. No handouts here, get a real job, one that you can take pride in.

WEEKENDS ARE THE WORST

2005-08-28T18:36:00.000+04:00

Yes, weekends are the worst around here. Before Curt ever left for Iraq, I looked forward to weekends--he was off from work(unless he had to go play weekend warrior), and we actually got to spend a little time together. Now however, I am alone caring for six children, who at times want to do six different things, and none of them are happy if the thing we do is not what they wanted. Some of them even throw temper tantrums---they must get this from their papa. Anyway, since Thursday I have had all six kids, plus the neighbors 4 kids(they are all friends). You know, if you have six, you could just as well have 15--at that point numbers don't mean much. Any way, I know it has been awhile honey since I last posted. Matthew had his first and second soccer games. His first one he scored the only goals and tied the game for them. The second game he scored 2 of the 3 goals and it was tied for a long time, but one slipped past our goalie, and the other team ended up winning. You know I told Matt it just did not matter if he won or lost, but that he played an awesome game. However, Matt, like Curt is very competitive and knows that if you play a game, you play to win. Matt usually plays center for his team, but has played goalie once. I could tell that when he was in the goalie post, he was just itching to get out there and kick that ball around. Matt is growing frustrated(even if there have only been two games). He handles the soccer ball very well, and both games he dominated in bringing the ball down the field, only to find that none of his teammates followed him to help him out, so he was faced with 5 opposing players all by himself. His coach during both games could be heard saying "Come on guys Matt keeps bringing it down--you all need to be helping him out down there" Matt is a good sport though, always complimenting his teammates and encouraging them. He has fun. One parent even told Matt, "Your teammates need to be helping you a lot more, you can't continue to do what you have done the last two games--we will wear you out." He was saying this after he told his own son that he needed to help Matt out more on the field. My daughter, also lost her second game. Curt's daughter lost her first game--bummer. I was not able to go to either of these, as I was busy transporting kids back and forth to practices. Meghan has a game today--I will be going to cheer her on at this one. Nik, Curt's son, has had stuff going on since Thursday also--football season is starting up--which means practices M-F and a scrimmage this weekend. You see why I say weekends are the worst. Yesterday we were going to go to Valley Fair(an amusement park), but we got there and it was very busy. We have season passes and have gone about 20 times this summer, so, since it was so busy, we just left. My brother was with us also, and the neighbors, so we decided to go to a movie instead. Now think about that--11 kids and two adults trying to decide on one movie to see---not an easy task. We got it down to two movies--The Dukes of Hazard and The Brothers Grimm. I took the two little ones and my daughter and three friends and my son and his friend while my brother took my step daughter, my stepson, and the oldest neighbor girl to the Brothers Grimm. Dukes was funny--the kids got a kick out of the explosions and of course our four year old loved all the jumps the cars did. Today is Sunday, and we are in the process of getting ready for church. Some of the neighbor kids want to come with us, so it should prove to be interesting. Our church services in the summer are pretty laid back--they are held outside, so it is a lot easier on the little ones. Well Curt, you should be pretty much caught up on our goings on. I miss you terribly and was so happy to hear your voice again after five days of not hearing or seeing you. I love you--continue to be safe--and be nice to those that make you want to scream.

I'M BACK

2005-08-28T04:10:00.000+04:00

Well it was a long trip, leaving Baghdad on the 2nd of Aug and finally getting home or in Dallas on the 5th and starting leave on the 6th. Yeah 4 days travel which took me from Baghdad, Kuwait, Ireland, Dallas and than Minneaplolis (7000 plus mi and 18 hrs flight time). Two locked downs (customs) in Kuwait with nothing but cereal and milk for two days. With all the abuse, delays and long flights, really makes you think twice about going home. My return trip was just as bad getting stuck in Kuwait for 4 days waiting for a flight back home (Baghdad), I'm glad theirs not a war, what am saying I guess I'm here, hmmmmm! My return trip took me from Minneapolis, Dallas, Frankfurt Germany, Kuwait and then Baghdad. While in Kuwait for 4 dys waiting for a flight, we had no communication what so ever, none. Its strange not having (sad)communication and not being able to touch base with family or letting them know your alive when they expect or have gotten used to talking when we wanted or needed in most cases. Fifteen days leave with nine days travel, 2 Aug and getting in Baghdad on the 26th, ridiculous. Family time at home was great and I spent a lot of quality time together with the kids. I had plans to do a lot of things around the house but felt so guilty as the kids needed so much attention. Sorry Mom, we missed the boat and didn't get the time we needed, we had plans to spend quality time (alone time) but really didn't work out as we expected. Its probably good because it will give us something to look forward too on my return (mmmmmmm). Judy's probably glad that I'm gone, yes, I had a couple temper tantrums, I tried. Updates, pictures and some of the things we did will follow. I really missed the blogging family and SPF. Sorry I missed you in the cities Meritt, Erik saved me four cookies and gave me the impression that was it. Yeah, I know he probably ate several dozen. The girls and I made cookies at home and they didn't taste as good as yours. You are wonderful and thankyou so much.

OH THAT LONESOME FEELING

2005-08-23T22:43:00.000+04:00

Hello out there in blogger land. It is Curt's wife again. Well it has been a little over two days since we dropped off Curt at the airport. We dropped him off Sunday am around 715, and I knew it was going to be difficult, but I did not realize this feeling would again last this long. You know it is kind of funny, when Curt was first deployed back in January, it took me a while to get used of him not being next to me when I would roll over in bed; then I kind of liked having all the bed to myself(except on those nights our four year old decided he wanted to be near me)--no one pulling all the covers off of me. Yes, Curt, honey you do this quite frequently to me--which I am sure you will vehemently deny--I love you REGARDLESS. Anyway, once he got home on leave and I had to share the bed and covers again, it took a while to adjust, but it was nice knowing that when I rolled over, there was someone that loved me, cared about me, and made me feel safe. Now, I am faced with that empty feeling again, and I really do not like it at all. However, with 4, sometimes 6 kids, there is not time to sit and feel down---life must go on and kids must be feed, changed, and entertained at times. On Sunday after dropping Curt off at the airport the two little ones and I went back home for a little while, and then we went to Curt's company picnic(Army Natl Guard). Erik, we saw Missy and the kids there, and I even got to hold the baby for awhile. She is adorable--it really made me miss that baby stage. No, Curt, I don't want another baby. While at the picnic I got to talk with Erik and Curt's First Sgt's wife. It was nice to see and talk with people that knew and really understood what I was going through. We did not stay long as we had a soccer game to attend. My daughter, Meghan, had her first soccer game and unfortunately they lost--but they have the potential to be a good soccer team. On Monday my four children and the neighbors' four children went to Minnehaha Falls--very beautiful day for this. The kids all enjoyed wading in the water and skipping rocks. I was daring enough to bring our 9 month old beagle with us also, but he did not enjoy the water as much as I thought he would. Monday evening we went to the neighbor girl's soccer game, and her team also lost--worse than Meghan's team. Monday morning I received a call from my work asking me if I would like to work Monday or Tuesday night. I decided after having about 18 days off it would be nice to go back and get into the swing of things at work, so I decided to pick up Monday night. So, after the evening soccer game, I came home and got the little two ready for bed, and put little Miss Olivia to bed--she promptly asked for her papa to put her in her cribby. Well that just about broke my heart and I had to remind her where Papa was. For the last 5 months when we asked her where Papa was she would reply--Raq-faaaa faaa away. So that night I had to remind my little princess that her papa was far far away. She did not take kindly to this news, but eventually fell asleep. So Monday night it was back to work--which was really nice. I am a night charge nurse at a subacute nursing home only 2 miles from home. It was great returning, but I was saddened to see so many of my residents(about 7 or 8) had passed away. When you work with a resident for four years, they become like family, and at times it is hard to have them die. I also had to train in a new RN(she just passed boards)--this was not what I had in mind my first night back after having 18 days off---I myself felt like there were a lot of residents that I did not know. The night was busy, but, it was a nice outlet for me. Sometime--who am I kidding--all of the time now--work is my only "alone" time. I came home and slept about 4 hours. Tonight there are two more soccer games to get the kids to. Thank God we have neighbors that are on my son and my daughters teams, so we just car pool. I will be attending my sons game tonight--I only hope he has better luck than the girls had. Well that is about it from my end since my hubby left. To Curt--I miss you terribly, and I hope to sit down and blog every other day if not every day to let you know what is happening in our lives. To all the people who read our blogs---thank you for your support and kind words. We need to let our soldiers and their families/loved ones know how much we appreciate the sacrifices they all make on a daily basis. Also, Curt, I am looking forward to a call from you letting me know that you arrived safely back in Iraq. I love you honey and miss you terribly. The kids are doing well and have seemed to adjust to your leaving better than I have. Stay safe!!! Oh, honey I almost forgot to tell you that Tony called this am and we talked for about ten minutes, and he was so sorry that he could not get through to you while you were home. I gave him your address--he does not have the internet, so that is not an option. Erik--sorry dude your roommate should be back in no time--keep each other in line.

Judy(Curt's wife)

Curt's returning to Iraq

2005-08-21T07:39:00.000+04:00

Hello everybody--just a short note to introduce myself. I am Judy--Curt's wife. Curt has been home for 15 days and is scheduled to return to Iraq tomorrow. It has been a real blessing having him home, however, it was difficult to try to squeeze in 8 months of absence into two weeks. I feel like Curt will actually be happy to get back to Iraq for somewhat of a break from me and the six kiddies. We had a lot of fun. Curt was able to be home for our daughter, Olivia's, second birthday. We celebrated at a hotel/water park and had an awesome time. We got together with a couple friends, went to the beach, went to an amusement park, went to two zoos, and made a stop at Curt's employer. The days went by quickly, but we had a very nice time. I am sure tomorrow's good byes are going to be hard--especially for our four year old,Zakery. I have been preparing him everyday--saying that papa will need to go back for awhile,however,I know that I am not prepared to say good bye, so I am sure he will have a hard time too. That is all for now--just wanted to introduce myself and say hi, and Erik, if you read this, know that you are in our thoughts and prayers as well.

FOB Spiecher, Lift Machine for container operations

2005-08-01T14:16:00.000+04:00

FOB Spiecher, Lift Machine for container operations
Originally uploaded by Curtis Caldwell.

Ok,Ok, I know you think its strange putting a picture of this on my blog. Besides being an aircraft mech, welder, construction trades, EMT, nurse, for the past 5 yrs I worked for the railroad (Canadian Pacific RR). A machine similiar to this one is the one I operate for the railroad. Can you say more power (Home Improvement), these machines are capable lifing close to 100,000 lbs (Max wt for highway is 80,000 ie semi truck. Needless to say when drivers are to dumb to unhook containers from their chasis, they better hang-on. I usually teach them a lesson by picking the trailor and truck up and shaking the shit out of them. It usually only takes one time of getting picked 1-2 ft off the ground and dropping them to let them know they better pull their head out) which is incredible in itself. The only reason you don't want to lift more is because you would end up dipping the machine over. So some of the pictures I've taken are goofy by your standards but HEY! I've also taken pictures of the rails running off into the distance. People stasteside don't realize how much freight is shipped by rail. Majority of heavy equipment for the Armed Services is shipped by rail due to the weight ie tanks. I have to laugh at people who say the hell with the rail and why do we need to subsidize them. In time of war you would find out in a hurry, how the hell would you get equipment to the ships to send? I appreciate all the support that the military has been getting but there are a lot civilians in harms way supporting us and working overseas. The person operating the lift machine is a civilian. Yes, their paid well but live in the same conditions the soldiers do and don't carry weapons to protect themselves either. All these containers are driven in from ports in the Persion Gulf, military and civilians. Servicman and women are eternally grateful for the jobs they do (at least I am), they to should be supported. I wanted to THANK them for the conveniences that they bring. Well, I got rid of my weapon and feel naked. I'll be flying home in the next couple of days for R&R. Kathy, if you want me to bring something back for your son let me know. I can pick it up from the states and mail it to him when I get back here. Does he need anything?

FAMILY HOME IMPROVEMENT PHOTO

2005-07-30T13:54:00.000+04:00

image_1.jpg
Originally uploaded by Curtis Caldwell.

Temperatue at 1300 hrs (1 PM), 122 degrees. Incredible clear blue skies, it feels like the sun will just burn right through you.

This is the only family photo that I recieved while in Iraq, so it will have to do.
Nikolaus-(age 15) oldest back right was pissed off because he missed baseball game that he was to play in. Best friend came into town to help around the house while I was in Iraq, he took family out eat. Oldest son thanked him by stomping around and having a temper tantrum.
Meghan (age 13) oldest daughter had same dispostion (but is a big NASCAR fan and keeps me up to date on racing, so I have to forgive her-she gets away with murder-damn her). 13 going on 30 and is helpless when it comes to helping with chores or helping anybody but herself.
Daughter #2 (Rebekka) bottom left is the sweetest thing in the world and would do anything for anybody. I feel sorry for her because she will be taken advantage of any position she gets into (my goal will be to encourage her to be more independent and stand up for herself). We enjoy baking cookies together. Yes Merrit were going to be making cookies at home.
Zakery #2 man of the house. We had car problems before I left for Iraq. He was my tool runner while doing maintenance. Every time MOM gets ready to go some place he goes thru a checklist of things for his mother ie checks under car for fluid leaks and tells mom to check oil while he goes around and kicks the tires (age 4- he knows more than 15 yr old) Being mechanically inclined I've tried to include him in on changing oil, brakes and other aspects of car maintenance with no success (I'll be 70 yrs old and will be changing his flats)
Olivia 2yrs on 6 Aug- Papa's princess. She has been waiting about a month now as Mom keeps telling her I'm coming home to celebrate her B-day. She stood in the picture window crying for 45 minutes yesterday, calling out my name (couple more days honey).
Matthew-(age 8)#1 man and helps mom around the clock with watching kids and changing diapers. Always asking if he can help. He will make a women happy some day. Thats the family

Big picnic to send 3 more people home today. Big dog and pony show as the General will be on hand. Talk about sucking up and kissing ass time. GOD! It makes me sick.

SPF FAVORITE T-SHIRT

2005-07-29T15:12:00.000+04:00

100_1464
Originally uploaded by Curtis Caldwell.

Weather indoors and out-Office temp 86 degress indoors/outdoor temp 1300 hrs or 1:00 PM is 121.

Never really paid much attention the indoor temp and noticed this AM the temp was 86 degrees when I set out the thermometer. When I get home I'll make sure that I set the thermostat in the house to 86 so I can bring alittle bit of Iraq back home. Just as well save energy and money at the same time (lol). Four days to go before I head out for R&R. Last nite I packed up all the needless stuff that I've never used. Two duffels and one carry on, I'll be living on the light side when I return. Since I'v been here, I haven't worn one piece of civilian attire (civies) other than a pair of black shorts that I use for sleeping attire. My wife sent A T-shirt with an imprint of my two youngest children that is attached to blog. When I get home I'm sure I'll have to get a whole new ward-robe because I'm sure nothing will fit. Past deployments that I've been on I had to do the same thing. I remember before going how much stuff I just gave away in the thought if I didn't come back my wife wouldn't have a clue what to do with some of the things I had. Plus the little things the wife really doesn't need to know, RIGHT ERIK! I'm sure my wonderful wife would do the same, ie hide receipts of purchases and items that just magically turned up with no explanation ( hey did you buy that? no we bought that before you left, REMEMBER?) Yeah BS!

K & M

2005-07-28T11:13:00.000+04:00

I looked the information up when I got home last nite (they gave us literature on environmental and cultural, its very interesting). They handed them out at FT. Bliss when we came over and at that time they came up short, so not everybody got one. Soldiers have seen me with it and have asked where I got it, obviously not everybody got them through OIF I, OIF II and OIF III. Rains start in Oct and go through spring, at this time nite time temps also drop. There is a definite line where rain hits, in the southwest probably not much at all. East and North when we've flown over you can see nothing but watermelon fields (surprise). Iraq had been the worlds largest producer of dates before the many conflicts they had ie Desert Storm and OIF (Operation Iraqi Freedom). Northern Iraq averages 760-1000 millimeters (30-40 inches), while other parts of Iraq average 100-170 millimeters elsewhere in the country. 90 percent of the rainfall comes between Nov and April. The tea
m that Erik and I are on was made up at last minute. When we were informed that we were coming over we had to sign a voluntary waiver to stay 12-18 months. If we didn't sign, it would just have delayed the inevitable and the people that arrived before us would have had the opportunity to pick where they wanted and we would not have had any choice but pickup the openings. We were broke up into 3 destinations Kuwait,Afghanistan and Iraq. Mind you I didn't volunteer to come here, are team was half female and they decided they didn't want females here at the time (command decision). The majority of females have done a great a great job, I see no difference between males and females (OBVIOUSLY SOME STRENGTH ISSUES), but I have interacted with females in the chain of command and at times they garner more respect then the males (seen some real drip-shits). I know theirs talk about not putting females in combat but hell if they do that they just as well as prevent them
from voting or becoming President. Its hogwash, let them serve if they want. Its always nice to see the opposite sex, as it breaks up the monotony of things. YES, YES there can be quite a bit of sexual promiscuity but that goes in both directions (It takes two individuals to do the down and dirty, if you want to refer to the females as ------ and the males as dogs, yes, in every aspect whether your here or at home your still wh---s/dogs. Its all a matter of self respect. There is no definitive time frame for our return but the sooner we come home the sooner we would be coming back over. This means if we go home early, we may turn right around and come back. Christmas would give us a time to be with family over the holidays and keep us off a rotation (nobody knows). CHRISTMAS! would be a great timing in both aspects (that will make 12 mos, nice even number). It will also put me at about 22 yrs and they can kick me out or put me out to pasture lol. Erik on the other hand has anoth
er 6 years left. I would actually like to stay in and would not mind a return trip but need to spend time with kids before their gone. Children range from 2 yrs to 15 with a spread of about 2-3 yrs between for a total of 6. Can you believe that my wife actually hinted to one more, I think I dropped the phone (lol).

ANOTHER DAY

2005-07-26T14:21:00.000+04:00

7/23 Blue skies and temp hit 116-evening skies were orange in color.
7/24 Duststorm/sandstorm-visability 1/4 mile. Inbound and outbound traffic at a standstill-evening the skies cleared up
7/25 116 was the high temp for the day
7/26 temperature at 1430 hrs was 118

Another day comes and another day goes, its obvious that I'm in a slump. Days are going by incredibly slow and prior to today, haven't had anything positive to say. 2 Aug is the big day for R&R, the date has changed a dozen times. Its a pain in ass to go home because you have to go through Chaplains brief ie don't go home and yell at wife and beat the kids, you know shes obviously doing things right or you would have found out by now. Also when go home don't kill yourself (suicide brief), I guess they want you to come back to get killed (fatalistic approach). I should change my attitude because Eriks starting to take on my role. The only difference is when I speak out of line he cheers me on . This way it makes it look like he's the good guy and I'm the bad guy. When he gets out of line I restrain him so he doesn't get his ass chewed to badly which also makes him look good. All I can say, I hope he survives my leave, everybody needs someone to keep an eye on, you find yourself doing and acting pretty strange at times. On my return our team will be down to 4, from the original 12. Work has eased but there are alot of loose ends that need to be taken care of before we leave our desert hide away. Anyway, everbody keep an eye on Erik's post and rein him in when he gets on a rampage (you find out theirs not a lot people who care because their in the same position).
Well tommorrow is a heightend security day so were all supposed to be on the alert. You would think when you carry your weapon and basically sleep with your weapon that you would also keep it clean so it will work. So the other day it was manadatory weapons cleaning day, so were ready, bring it on. With some of the attitudes I'd hate to be on the receiveing end, YIKES!

SPF-WALKING THE DOG

2005-07-22T17:19:00.000+04:00

SPF-WALKING THE DOG
Originally uploaded by Curtis Caldwell.

Weather- Beautiful blue skies yesterday and today. Temp on the 21st of July hit 127, today temp is 128. Thermometer scale goes to 125 so its a guess after that. Need new thermometer which will go into effect tommorrow. Camp Victory official temp was 135 the past consecutive days (liars), I guess their looking for sympathy.

And you thought we couldn't have pets. Well? Its not in the amount of sleep its the quality of sleep. You could sleep 12 hrs or 3 hrs and feel like a king or feel like shit. Yesterday I was woke up after about 8 hrs and felt like shit. Being brought out of a deep sleep with the sounds of someone making love when its not you, can be disheartening (even when it wasn't love making). I guess men have a one track mind, even though they don't say so , its the truth. Men go through this kickstand effect throughout the noc, then to be awaken to this grunting sound, well. Erik, what the hell are you doing, situps, crunches and leg raisers (you SOB). Erik gets in these kicks and feels guilty about not exercising so he wakes up to grunt and fart for about 30-40 minutes once or twice a month(alright, so its more frequent but still surprising). It really doesn't matter how much he exercises I'll still kick his ass when it comes down to it. About the urine bottle episode, no I didn't drink it but just as well have. Erik stated he gave himself a sponge bath outside the door, every time he rinsed he smelled urine (like pouring water over hot rocks as in a sauna). This is why we piss in the bottles because it adds to cleanliness around the hooch area (living quarters). People may say its gross to piss in drink bottles but even more gross to walk thru where people have pissed everywhere. When the rainy season comes you will smell all the piss and stench from all the animals who randomly piss everywhere (at times it smells like a cat spraying its territory, mmmmmmmmmm!) Last nite I rolled around for about 30 minutes before getting up to pee in the bottle (I'm not well endowed but still in the dead of the nite it can be challenging to hit the hole and last nite happened to be that nite). Thats OK because without asking Erik mops the floors. I consider myself a neat nick but if he's going to clean the floors, I'm not one to object. Anyway, last nite before making to be of a mess, I told myself this just is not going to work tonite. So here I am walking across the room with my underwear at my ankles and hanging on for dear life because I had to cut off mid-stream with the other hand holding onto a bottle of piss to find the door locked (SOB). This is when you could use a room-mate. Well I managed to get the door open and piss under a full moon (it sure was pretty). After half hour of struggling to take a piss, I finally get settled down with the fan on high and blankets pulled up around head. God-damn-it! Now I have to take a shit. Two blocks later and now working on 1-2 hrs (SOB), here I sit pushing the lower half of colon back in place (SOB), now I lay in bed wide awake, now what the hell am I going to do (just layed there looking at the ceiling). I blame the hemorrhoid issue on Erik (no not talking about his gay tendencies but the literature he keeps leaving in the bathroom). I guess its a proven fact as you sit with the seat spreading your ass cheeks a part you develope hemorrhoids (SOB). As a good leader I'll have to wean Erik from this, we wouldn't want him going to sick-call and have him explain why two room-mates have the same problem (SOB). Besides that, when you think about it, it can't be healthy reading magazines that other people have wiped their asses and put back down. Every once in a while you will see (well, stains and hair, GROSS!), those son of bitches. By the way, I have seen Erik use his piss bottle to spit in and have to pull hair from his mouth, that sorry son-of-a-bitch.

OUCH THAT HURTS

2005-07-20T09:20:00.000+04:00

Temperature today 122.5 don't want to cheat any and make shit up. The two previous days hit 122. Steady as she goes. Beautiful blue skies over the polloute skies of Baghdad.

Well its been a couple of days since I've written, there are reasons and thats so you don't get the real me. See, I've been told that my leadership style is one of threatening and intimidation, hmmmmm, its about right. I've been in a long time, having had to babysit adults (18 yr. olds - or in this case 27 year olds who act like 16 year olds), and at times it can be trying. This is why I got out of the Marine Corps after serving 8 yrs. The majority of soldiers getting into the service don't do it for God and country (don't let anybody fool you), they do it because they have run out of options. You wonderful parents that think you raised the perfect child, you will find out that your child is a missfit among missfits. Your perfect child just won't fit in (so that makes everybody in the army or any service a missfit - Yeah, ME TOO!). The attempt is made by putting everyone in a uniform and regulations for hair to make everybody the same, it doesn't work (not all the time anyway). We still find ways to isolate the missfits among missfits. I guess everybody thought the military was different from the everyday society. WRONG! Some of the reasons (some of the excuses for joining the service are- (mine)

1) To stupid to go on to college (me, I did eventually pull my head out of my
ass and went to nursing school after 30 yrs. Even made Deans List/NO SHIT!)
2) No money to go on to collge (Good one, these are the ones making excuses
not to be here. Stating how wrong it is to be here. These worthless people
are a joy to work with).
3) Parents unable to threaten their kids to get a life. Unable deal with (me)
even when you threaten to beat'em within inch of their life. (I was beaten
daily and would never do this to my kids but these are facts). Its always
easier to beat kids because you don't have time to justify or give logical
explanations for the ways of life.

There are all kinds of reasons and too many to state. All these honorable soldiers will probalbly be upset but if the truth hurts so be it. Thats why its so unbeleivealbe the outpouring of care packages for missfits, its great. People (wanna' be soldiers) and soldiers will protest (intimidatation stlyle) to this but than they will go to boot camp to be threatened and intimidated and that's reality. Thats why the military makes rules such as no alcohol or no this or that. If people were to state and do what they (protect missfits among missfits) wanted i.e. alcohol, where peoples inhibitions and their guards were let down, you can only imagine what would happen. Threatening and disiplining is what the miltary is about (missfits would retaliate), rules to protect soldiers and wanna' be soldiers. Fratracide does happen and there have been several instantances that have occurred here. Fratracide, if you don't know what it is, means killing your fellow soldier (NICE! REALITY CHECK) If you think you can stand on the pulpit and thump the bible or throw out incantations and get the same results your pretty naive (If you don't know what that means), your STUPID or just damn ignorant. This is also evident with insurgents taking family members and holding them hostage til their loved ones blow the hell out of innocent Iraqi's. I guess their running out of sacrifial lambs.

Now after all that, I'm going to tell you that I made a call home after 5 days, yes 5 days. My God! you would have thought the world was coming to an end. Now mind you, were talking 5 days which would give you the impression that I call home more frequently and that I do (almost daily). If I were to die they'd probally get word in a day or two, so obviously I'm alive. I have to laugh because when I made trips overseas 20 yrs ago, there was no such thing as email or phones for that matter (affordable). Yeah and if you think mail was faster 20 yrs ago your wrong, thats what has made this vacation here so much more fun(lol). It has made things a lot better or at least bearable. I couldn't imagine what things would have been like without communication because I'm not a big writer, meaning that my wonderful wife would have dumped me by now. Latest news, MILITARY DIVORCE RATES UP 80%, yeah reality speaks so keep sending care-packages because thats where the love comes from (thats reality). Well the only reason I bring this up is because I wanted to let you know I have a sentimental side too. When I called home my daughter was crying for me (2 yr old), yeah for me, I stated before I didn't even think she knew who I was. My wife didn't even have to lie because my daughter said it on the phone. Its hard to beleive shes talking and actually crying for me. It actually choked me up so I guess I must be a little sentimental, how about that Erik. Well a week or two and I should be home on R&R if I last that long. I guess thats not funny, its wierd you always here about soldiers on their way home and counting the days down only to get wacked in the last day or two. God forbid the damn plane crashing. Well I should get going, hey, all you happy-go-lucky people, here's your sunshine for the day.

YOU SON OF BITCH

2005-07-18T19:31:00.000+04:00

YOU SON OF BITCH
Originally uploaded by Curtis Caldwell.

With thoughts of going home, your imagination can do tricks. With one last mission to go on and the days counting down for leave (were getting ready to fly out). It was a beautiful night with not a cloud in the sky. We were all laying on our backs looking at the stars, their one thing thats nice about the desert skies and thats the ablility too or the thought that you can just reach up and touch the stars. While your laying there you think about being with someone that love, preferably a female in my case, your imagination can get the best of you. Well thats what was taking place when I dozed off under the desert skies only to be woken with a foul smell. Erik happened to be laying next to me, "Erik did you shit your pants?" no response but laughter. You could assume he was the culpret, then I noticed that someone was hanging onto my hand, Erik you son of bitch. What the hell are you doing! Well it was early Friday morning when we departed on our mission south to Talil where our mission was to take us. The mission lasted three days with one nights sleep of the three. Very quick trip, utilizing both heicopter and fixed wing aircraft to get to our destination. The flight by aircraft took 2hrs which didn't include the chopper flight on each end which was the reason for the loss of sleep. I didn't bring my thermometer so I couldn't give exact temps but it was hotter than the hinges of hell (coined by Erik), which was not far from the truth. We left Baghdad with temp of 125 and there was no comparison, HOT! Training went off without any hitches and gave us the opportunity to sight see some. From the base you could see the Temple of Ur (moon temple), named after King Ur-Nammu. The town was also aptly named Ur, this occured around 2112BC to 2094BC. At that time it was also the port to Babylon, obviously theirs no water near there now. This was also the birth place of Abram (Biblical), not like Erik thought, Abraham Lincoln. In more recent times this temple area was off limits (Saddam) and was patrolled by military forces for the vantage point that it had on the air-base. Since our invasion this temple area has been open to coalition forces and was really was quite neat to see. We were able to take vehicles and drive out into the countryside which felt eerie. Normally when you leave post you take gunners, it just seemed strange heading in a vehicle by yourself. As I stated the temps were incredible and fear of being stranded out in desert comes to mind, you just wouldn't last long. When the winds blew you could just feel yourself cooking. On the ride out sitting in the hummvee you could feel your ass cooking to the metal bed of the hummvee, incredible heat. On our arrival we were to have picnic, nothing like planning.

Sentimental ERIK!

2005-07-14T22:23:00.000+04:00

P1010500
Originally uploaded by Curtis Caldwell.

OK! OK! ERIK YOUR SENTIMENTAL

If this is what things have come to I surrender. Erik has been giving me a bad time and things have really come to a head. I often wakeup with Erik pacing over my head, hey Erik settle down things will be OK, go to sleep. Will I wake up in the morning? Well it was a waste of a day, the winds blowing and sands hanging in the air. No flights today because the visibility is poor. Temps hit 111 degrees which felt cool compared to yesterdays 121. Life and time goes on and the days are counting down for R&R. My baby girl is waiting for her papa to come home and celebrate her second birthday. It seems as though I don't even know who she is. Moms got my picture on the monitor and she keeps walking by it and calling for me and looking around the house. I feel so guilty for not seeing my little girl girl grow up. I happened to be on active duty when she was born. I feel as though shes been left out of my life, she was the only child that I never got to see come in the world. As time goes by here, it will be a lifetime of catching up at home. Well, it going on 8 mos, I finally got pictures of the kids, theirs not a minute of the day that I'm not thinking of the kids (6). The kids have mom haggered and she doesn't have time to think. I hope she survives the deployment. I hope I survive the loneliness.

OK! OK! ERIK YOUR SENTIMENTAL

2005-07-14T20:45:00.000+04:00

STATISTICS

2005-07-13T18:52:00.000+04:00

Traffic Deaths for 2003 were 38,252 people. 42,643 when you count cyclists and pedestrians. Statistics received from www-fars.nhtsa.dot.govs

Murder Statistics for 2002 were 14,726 -DC and Florida. Last statistics for Florida 1077 and DC were 301. www.ojp.usdoj.gov/bjs/welcome/html

Vietnam deaths ? 4-,---, I guess thats mystery as numbers change.

Now thats something to die for. It really makes you think where people have their priorities.

MURDER DOWN THE STREET

2005-07-13T10:58:00.000+04:00

Temperature Today-121 degrees at 1430/2:30 P.M., its a hot one today.

RATIONALIZING and expecting/accepting the inevitable. Before coming to Iraq I was excited and asked myself, is this how I'd die. Do I want to die from a heart attack when I'm 50 or dying for a cause that I do or do not agree. However and whoever determines why we are here makes no difference what so ever. WMD , oil, or human rights, it makes no difference, were here and life or death is inevitable. Were pushing the 2000 mark for dead soldiers and here the grumbling from all sides from everywhere. You would think people would be more compassioniate for people stateside and worry about the slaughter of human life there, then 10,000 miles away. I don't know what the statistics are for auto fatalities or murder in the streets of America but they far out weigh the loss of human life here. You know you don't here about that, you just here about the agenda of peoples political or personal views. Hey wake up its about the country as a whole and not just for a few. Stand up and be recognized and not scourge of the earth. I'd rather sacrifice life then be struck down in my prime by drunk driver or by a thug down the street with a handgun.

What life has in store nobody knows, is it, has my life been predetermined. Lots of things go through your mind when your shook from your bed by an explosion that wakes you up from a dead sleep. Well thats what happen this A.M., you start to think about how you can control things and its just not possible. You have concrete bunkers that you can go to and its all split decision making. Its amazing how many people are so interested in seeing whats going on, gawking syndrome takes lives as people run to the scene only be taken by secondary explosions or what have you. You become desensitized to your surroundings and take on the attitude of who cares, its not like your going to be told the truth about what actually occurred, hey thats secret, than goes the lockdown and coverup. Yeah phone lines blocked, internet access shuts down so families can be updated (hush, hush). You really don't find out word in less it happens to be someone within your office or unit. Anyway you just do the drop and roll and hope it happens to be your day (roll from the bed to floor or just say piss on it, well I just pulled the blankets up and hoped for best. What can you do?) IS IT YOUR TIME?

Well needless to say it was a long weekend, Chicagoland 400 turned out to dismal for my driver, another DNF (did not finish), times running out for the chase. I guess its just as well I' m in Iraq, I hope it will be easier to suck up his losing the points championship from here than being home and ridiculed for liking the most despised driver (Jeff Gorden). You know thats how I feel at times being here. Being a part of the greatest country in the world and than being despised by people of your own country. NOW THATS SACRIFICE! NASCAR RESULTS for the weekend-Dale Earnhardt pulled off the victory, it was a victory he needed. He has had such a dismal run, he needed something. Congratulations Little E!

Well I was keeping track of temps til the temp got to high and mercury in the bulb separated and was unable to shake it down. Its always nice to have fellow soldiers that want to help as if it were their idea, than breaking ---- that I had control of, THANKS! Well as time goes by we all start getting on peoples nerves. I will be straight forward and let you know I get on peoples nerves, ask ERIK. I know I get on his nerves and he definitely gets on mine. Well my last post got Erik in trouble, so to speak. SGM read the post and it happened to come down from above. Those weren't Erik's words they were mine (doesn't mean those aren't his feelings, my interpretations have been known to be wrong and will leave that for Erik to post). For all the people that I didn't think could read, that did, POST A LOVE NOTE or FIRE A ROUND OVER MY HEAD I"LL GET THE MSG. Doesn't change the outcome or anybody feelings, especially mine. SHIT on the msger.

Well the mission goes on and Erik and I will be heading out on another mission. One last trip and last minute changes put me on the roster to hit another location. This last location will have taken me from north to south and the whole expanse between. We should be flying over the Garden of Eden area and should be exciting. Theirs nothing more exciting than flying or jumping from a plane, if you have control, or if your able to make decisions in the matter. You always think about burning in or getting shot in the ass. As you look at some of the aircraft you can see holes in the seats before you sit (bullet holes). Theirs one thing of dying in a crash but getting shot in the ass is not the way I perfer to go. The adventure continues.

Curt

2005-07-11T17:41:00.001+04:00

11 July 05 Weather-incredibly beautiful day, not a cloud in the sky with high temp of 115 at 1500 hrs.

2005-07-10T23:46:00.000+04:00

10 JULY 05

Weather-Clear skies in the A.M. with sand hanging in the air by 1200. 1530 temps hit 110. dust settled out in the evening.

HELL YES! Peachtree 10k/6.2 mi

2005-07-09T19:20:00.000+04:00

Peachtree 10k/6.2 mi
Originally uploaded by Curtis Caldwell.

Curt Draft Delete
Weather: Temp 116 (1630 or 4:30 P.M.) beautiful blue skies in A.M.-By noon the dust settled in with 1 mi visability. By this evening things cleared up. www.weather.com has on site states highs of 106. Najaf is south of Baghdad-Baghdad doesn't offer temps-go figure. Go to link for forcast ie 5-10 day forecast.

NASCAR UPDATE: Jimmy Johnson on the pole for Chicagoland Sheetrock 400-go to my link Nextel Cup Race. Race Sunday

I guess by now you can figure out that I'm a race fan. Updated profile and links should be noted. Called home this A.M. 2300 hrs Central Standard time, kids still up and running mom in the ground (never gets a break). At least during the school year, mom has the opportunity to get the kids in bed by using school for an excuse. No rest for mom- just wanted to drop Pete and Michelle a thanks for offering assistance in car maintenance. I'll be heading home here for R&R in Aug and will have to catch up and prepare for the up-coming MN winter. Change oil, rotate tires, check fluids and close the pool that never got opened (sounds fun). Well excited about the weekend and hoping to catch the race which I've missed the past couple of weeks. We usually get at least one day off if something doesn't comeup. Don't worry your monies not going to waste (US), everybody knows where everybody lives and so they just come and get you anyway(any time day or night-not like home where you can just ignor the phone ). This past Sunday was a day-off, oops I forgot the SGM made it mandatory to do a 10k/6.2 mi run, affiliated with Peachtree in Atlanta. It was fun to get out and run (really), sucks being told you have too. See attached photo-Sgt Holtan's favorite SGM is in the photo-whats your name for him Erik? (Erik calls him a sawed-off pip squeak! obviously, always behind his back) Yeah its a leadership thing, yeah I'm working with him, sound famialiar doesn't it Pete. I'll be keeping an eye on him and kicking him once or twice. Well, heading home and being that Erik's so sentimental, I'll have to get some ideas (Mr Romantic), NOT! I need Female insight, Help!

Holtan

2005-07-08T15:12:00.000+04:00

Holtan
Originally uploaded by Curtis Caldwell.

The RAGER!! ranting and raving
OK! OK! OK! I get carried away and it has been a while since I've posted. Erik has been giving me a terrible time everyday, hey have you posted. My response has been no, I will try and start making an effort. I started reading a few links from Erik's blog, the "Long Strange Trip", its time to start dropping the real sccop on Erik, he's really not that sentimental. The picture with this post, is the real Erik, it looks like he's being prodded from behind with a hot-poker. This is ERIK on a good day. Yeah, he has issues but now you know why I rant and rave. The weather in wonderful in Iraq is dismal today, hot and supposed to get to 114. The past couple of days have been beautiful (clear blue skies and temps 110-120, not a cloud in the sky), today-sandstorm/sand in the air with visability 1/4 mi, enough to choke you off. Well good news or it appears to be-safety precautions have gone into effect, the powers to be finally implemented cable or a barrier to put in front of the chow-hall. Boy that took a genious to figure out. Maybe I'll start eating in the chow-hall (DEFAC) again. Obviously the news in London portrays the thoughts of what I thought was going to happen in the chow-hall (no I think I'll stick to takeout, THANKS). Well I posted a few pictures of the true rager and hope to link to other blogs. Katy I hope you like the picture of the true Erik, when you want the true scoop of him drop me a line. I won't hesitate to tell you. I will also except constructive criticism, take in whats important for personal growth and discard the rest.

2005-07-07T20:53:00.000+04:00

bartered love

2005-05-09T09:26:00.000+04:00

Bartered love- is free love to make up for ones insecurity. Bartereed love is token love, given as a favor to meet ones immediate needs or desires. Its not long lasting, its much like a storm , comes and goes and is soon forgotten. Love stands the test of time however insignificant. Its the simple things that one forgets. Its the daily grind of going to work and bringing home a paycheck and not asking for anything in return. Its dealing with children and insecure wives that don't really know what love is. Love is not some fantasy world, its REAL. Its a sacrifice without asking for someting in return. I have a lot of love to give, this love is a callous from the from my past. Unaccepted behavior by loved ones that I now accept as a standard, pretty sad pretty bad, now accepted. Don't pity me, accept and drive on. The love I have comes from past abuse, its a callous that now stands the test of time. Its these abusive actions of my chilhood (physical beating and emotional beating) that allows these same abusive actions to continue in the life that I now live and accept and take for granted. This callous allows me too survive the daily grind and make it from day to day. At times I'm very critical which comes accross as someone who doesn't care, thats not the case. I just don't want to continue dealing with the pains of the past. Just because I'm able to forgive , doesn't mean I'm able and willing to forget. I will not allow people back in my life for their personal gain, too make them feel good about themselves. ITS ME! not you. You really need to wake the hell up.
BARTERED LOVE! forget it.

what the hell

2005-05-05T10:04:00.000+04:00

I hope like hell that every blog I write won't have the negative impact that this one will have. Today in the wonderful world of Baghdad Iraq (Camp Victory), the weather upon waking was incredible, lows 60's and overcast. I got up and hit the pavement this morning, running for 30 plus minutes (3-4 miles). Its been hard to muster up energy to do so, numerous ailments and just shity attitude. My feet have been killing me for the past couple of months (must be stress fx in my feet), it takes about 15 minutes of apprehensive steps before I can hit the road. It doesn't help the inability to sleep d/t numb tingling hand pain and a room-mate that leaves his TV on all noc (sonofabitch). It reminds of my wife, shes a hell of lot pretty than my room-mate though. New threat warning persist daily and I'm surprised we all haven't had ourselves blown to hell. I've stated several times, its not if we get hit, its when we get hit. Are we, are you prepared to get hit. Myself and another soldier are going start eating take out to limit our exposure to packed Dining Facilities. Yeah, there's security at the entances but there's also security at the posts/gate entrances that a drunk contractor came through. Once through the gate the contractor was able to hide himself long enough to sleep off his drunkeness. When the vehicle was located it was found to have several rounds penetrating the vehicle. Now think of insurgents doing the same. This all stems from, I'm sure, to the Italian reporter that was shot. Mind you the bitch is a known communist supporter/reporter that the government of Italy just paid 10 million for her release. I' m sure the money will go to the local food shelves to feed the Iraqi people (wrong, its going to be used to blow the hell out soldiers and Iraqi citizens) , thanks Italy. I don't think Americans understand whether we fight for human rights or oil, it fuels the economy. You dumb F--Ks that think we shouldn't be here, you can fight when we get home. I will be standing in the same soup lines you will be and I'll be damned if your going to take food from mouths of my children. I'll kick your asses there too. Have a good day.

what the hell

2005-05-05T10:03:00.000+04:00

Blog starts here

2005-05-05T06:39:00.000+04:00

Well I've procrastinated three days in starting this. I recently responded to a blog that made me register. I'm a soldier in the MNARNG, currently operating in OIF III (OPERATION IRAQI FREEDOM). I'm a 91 w (medic), serving with the 18th AIRBORNE, MNC-I Surgeon Cell out of Camp Victory. Located between the city of Baghdad and the BIAP (Baghdad International Airport), on the palace grounds of old Sadaam H. As a medic, my job will be to perform on the PDHA team (Post Deployment Health Assessment), these are health assessments that are performed on soldiers returning to the states. This covers soldiers general well-being along with physical and mental being. On our team we have 11 soldiers, OIC-NCOIC and 9 worker bees. Our team is than broken down into two teams, north and south. I'm team leader working out of FOB Speicher, my team consists of three other soldiers. We cover FOB's (forward operating bases) north of Baghdad to the border. Getting to and from our locations is provided by helicopter (UH-60's and CH-47) and military convoys, there can be interesting times. The temperature today was in the low 80's with a nice breeze. Now as the evening approaches we have overcast skys. Two days ago we had some wild weather, quick shower at dusk and than the winds really picked up. It was nice to have had shower as it helped keep the dust down. The winds were a steady 30mph and must have hit 50mph (apprx). You could almost lay into the wind without falling over. There's been a lot of new construction taking place, while heading back to our hooches for the nite we had to dodge steel siding flying through the air. When the sun came up in the morning there was not a cloud in the skies, temps cooled off nicely. On our way to work you could see biffies lying on there sides with the blue goo flowing. Things have been pretty slow as of late. Were in the process of eliminating our jobs and training units to take our jobs over. The big training push is coming which will take us throughout much of Iraq. That pretty well covers my existance in the Iraq.

Curt