"Just A little Update"

January 22, 2009

I talked to Zach last night, he is still at Ft. Dix until the end of the month. He seems in good spirits, anxious to get on with his call to duty in Iraq. We can talk on the phone only if he goes outside, in the cold (12 degrees) stands between two trailers with the wind whipping thru just to get a phone signal. Ha ha. We also use AOL instant messenger.

The last couple of weeks in Ft. Dix he will be spending 9 days in the field, day and night. Very cold. Funny though in just a couple of weeks he will be in the desert heat. Although at night in the winter it gets down to the 30's. They have all the equipment and training necessary to endure either situation.

I am always amazed at how much he does not complain about anything. He has gained alot of endurance while in the military. I am so very proud of him, for who he is and what he stands for.

Departure

Thursday Januaury 8, 2009

Zach left from camp atterbury by bus to Ft. Dix, New Jersey. Non-stop bus ride. He will have direct training there to prepare for a year in Iraq. His grandfather Larry was there, his grandmother Evelyn, his Aunt Donna & Uncle Mike, and of course his brothers Ty & Cole. At this time I communicate with Zach by e-mail. Some phone calls, connection not good inside buildings on a military base.

He seems upbeat and ready to accomplish his mission. We are so very proud of him. Please remember him in your prayers for a safe year and return home to us.

A Year Long Journey in IRAQ

Today January 5th, 2009, my son Zach reports to Camp Atterbury to begin a year long deployment in IRAQ.