Remember when I didn't graduate R-school? Well, I spent so long doing that (or not doing that), that by all estimates I actually missed the chance to deploy with the 101st.* As you can imagine, this would be a rather disappointing turn of events for any new officer with ambitions of a successful career in the Infantry, or one, who, for the sake of argument, we'll say had taken the time to achieve some proficiency in both of the languages of Afghanistan.
But, I digress. The point is that I decided it was high time I had a positive experience with the Army, and got the adventure I signed up for (not that six months of pooping in the forest and filling sandbags don't count as those). So, see map below:
I volunteered to go to Korea - I needed a change, and in all honesty, something to get me past the envy and guilt I feel when I see half my friends galavanting around Afghanistan without me (I guess I could have just gotten off Facebook, but changing continents was definitely the easier and more enjoyable option).
I haven't been here long, but I've had a grand time so far and it looks like serving in Korea will be a truly unique experience. And when the year's out, of course, I can go back and try my hand at all the really run stuff a second time.
Enjoy the new banner! (You noticed, didn't you?)
*And just about anyone else. Believe me, I put more effort into trying to get over there than just about anyone who's not a Pakistani militant.
Long time reader, just graduated from OCS and branched Infantry. I hate to dredge up old wounds, but I'm curious exactly how getting dropped in Ranger school works. I've heard conflicting things. Is it that if you fail a phase twice for a specific thing, you're dropped? Or if you fail patrols, are you simply done? Again, I'm not trying to rub salt in the wound, but I enjoy your writing and would appreciate your insight.
ReplyDelete1) Welcome to Korea! do you have a platoon?
ReplyDelete2) @ Anonymous above - what kind of question is that? c'mon
Same as above, been reading this for few months. I will totally vouch for the ibolc cadre who say the f-bomb alot. One of our platoon's sergeants drops it like he is saying the word "i" or "you". Hope Korea starts off well. I myself will be headed to a nice Texas base.
ReplyDeleteI noticed the banner and love it. Keep the journey going.
ReplyDeleteRecycled Darby. I'm taking the long course as well, apparently.
No, not a PL yet. Will elaborate more when I have the opportunity for a proper post.
ReplyDelete