A Soldier Family's Chronicles

One year later almost to the day ...

2008-04-16T17:53:00.001-07:00

Finally ... he's back in Tracy for good.

As most of you know, I met Larry in Columbus, GA (few miles from Ft. Benning) last weekend. By the time I arrived Friday night it was the wee hours of Sunday morning ... 2:30 AM to be exact. Nevertheless we were together and that is ALL that mattered.

We had a fabulous weekend together, we had so much to chat about and just when we thought we'd talked about it all there was just one more thing ... great great time and all thanks to our sweet friend Ruth for making my travel there possible.

Today Larry landed in Sacramento and should be home soon. I am still out traveling & teaching the rest of the week in Chicago and Madison. Aaron was able to pick Larry up and another precious friend, Bernadette, decorated our yard for Larry's homecoming ... it is sometimes overwhelming how much love and support we are shown daily by our family and friends.

We love you all dearly ...

I believe in miracles ...

2008-04-10T21:48:00.000-07:00

No kidding ... a dear friend of mine, Ruth, has a gazillion points as she travels for a living. She has me flying out tomorrow morning (Friday) from Oakland to Atlanta ... I get there at 10:30 tomorrow evening. Larry will be so excited when he calls in the morning. I will go on to Chicago and Madison from there on Tuesday. What a gift thanks for your positive thoughts and prayers too ... talk to you soon :)

We'll be at the Residence Inn Marriott in Columbus, GA ... Larry had driven by there and said it was a great location, lots of restaurants, etc ... I am thrilled.

Ruth, thank you precious friend ... you know how excited I am. I love you

What a great day ...

2008-04-09T20:08:00.000-07:00

Larry safely landed at Ft Benning this morning about 11AM California time. He was very glad to be there and the jet lag was definitely beginning to take hold. It was a very busy day of processing. He and a couple buddies went out to a steak dinner tonight. He said it was fantastic. He hasn't had one of those in a while.

We'll know in the next 24-48 hours exactly when he'll be processed out. It's looking very likely that it will be next week while I am gone teaching in Chicago and Madison. We both agree that we are so thankful he is back that we'll just have to make it a little longer being separated. It's hard to not be the one picking him up at the airport ... that's such a special time.

More tomorrow I'm sure. Thank you for your prayers for safe travels ... he's almost in Tracy :)

On US soil ...

2008-04-09T05:32:00.000-07:00

Good morning everyone ... at 5:15AM this morning Larry called from McGuire AFB in New Jersey. He is safely in the USA ... hallelujah! This is an exciting day. He'll be there a couple hours and then on to Ft. Benning, GA. As I learn more about what the process is I'll fill you in. He said he didn't sleep much and he's been flying for 16.5 hours ... I'm thinking he's running on adrenaline right about now. Luckily he'll have some down time in GA to begin to get back on our time.

More later ...

He must be ...

2008-04-08T19:03:00.000-07:00

on his way or I would have heard otherwise. It's been 6 hours ... only 20 something to go ... at least he is USA bound ...

More later ...

On his way ???

2008-04-08T07:49:00.000-07:00

Good morning to you all ... again, thank you for your support and encouragement. It has been my life preserver :) Larry just called from Kuwait and will be leaving there around 1PM California time. He sounded great ... said he would be real excited when he is in the air. I 2nd that ... the next post should be that he has arrived in Ft. Benning, GA ... that will be sometime tomorrow. It's all of a 24 hour journey depending on head or tail winds.

Until then ...

WOW! we talked for 30 minutes ...

2008-04-07T10:54:00.000-07:00

You know, sometimes you just have to take advantage. As expensive as the calls are we have not spoken in a couple weeks and with no email we have been out of touch. It felt so good to catch up on the things that couples talk about ... the kids. It doesn't matter how old they are they seem to always be at the forefront of our conversations.

Larry asked me to ask you all to be praying for his flight. It looks like they have one for tomorrow, Tuesday, but as has been the case, no guarantees. He'll call early tomorrow, my time, to confirm that they are in fact going to get in the flight line. That's the equivalent of going to the boarding area at the airport for civilians.

Until later ...

Another call from Kuwait ...

2008-04-06T10:17:00.000-07:00

Almost as if he knew we were praying ... Larry's state of mind was so peaceful and content. He said that the church service this morning in Kuwait was "different" but he enjoyed it. An Australian pastor gave the message and served communion.
He is hopeful for the Tuesday fight out of there but said it will be what it will be. The strength that I heard in Larry's voice gave me so much courage for the day. Thank you Lord for the incredible man you have blessed me with ...

The message at church ...

2008-04-06T08:35:00.000-07:00

Ever notice how the message is exactly what you needed to hear? Admittedly yesterday was a difficult day. Surely I'm not the only one that wants things to go her way so she can have what she wants ...

After Larry's phone call I allowed myself to get way down and lose focus of Who is in charge and that His ways are always better than mine. I was too sad to pray yesterday. It was easier to just slip into a slump and stay there.

Then as my Savior as has always done ... He spoke to me loud and clear through my pastor's words. Here's a quote that lit me up, "The one concern of the devil is to keep Christians from praying. He cares nothing for prayerless work, prayerless study, or prayerless religion. He laughs at our toil, he mocks our wisdom, but he trembles when we pray." - Samual Chadwick

Although there are times when we just don't have it in us to pray, others are praying for us. There are many examples of this in scripture and amazingly enough, there are many examples in my life too. Thank you all for living a life that makes the devil tremble ...

Today is a better day and I'm praying too. Until I hear more ...

Not so happy news ...

2008-04-05T10:13:00.000-07:00

Good morning loved ones ... Larry just called, bless his heart, he really hated telling me that their flight had been canceled :( Of course I was sad but I felt so sad for him. I am sure the anticipation had been so high.

Due to ATA filing bankruptcy their flight status is up in the air; pardon the pun. As soon as he has more information he'll let me know. He said best case they could get a flight Tuesday, if not it is next Saturday.

This sure took the wind out of my sails but we agreed that there must be a reason that he is not supposed to be flying today and we will trust that it will all happen when he can get home safely.

Please continue to pray for safe and uninterrupted travel ... more later.

Less than 24 hours ...

2008-04-04T17:10:00.001-07:00

And Larry will be in departing Kuwait for the beautiful US of A ... he called about noon today and he said he is getting so anxious. I know how excited we all are and he's been in the middle of hell for a year ...

His arrival at Ft. Benning, GA should be sometime on Sunday. As soon as I hear I'll post it here for the rest of the world to know. He should be there for 4-5 days for debriefing and probably some reintegration classes. From there our plans are for him to fly into Sacramento where we'll spend the weekend in Old Town. Most of you know how much we love it down there on the Sacramento River.

We'll be celebrating our 10th anniversary which was March 28th. Until later ...

I'm bubbling over ...

2008-04-02T10:12:00.000-07:00

If you can try to imagine ... it's been one year since Larry has lived at home. Many say to me, "oh, what a welcome relief to have a year to myself." Be careful what you wish for ...

A year in our life has passed quickly but many special moments we have been unable to share. Our sons have had events that they so badly wanted their dad to be at. So many times they just wanted his advice but had to wait a couple days for emails to be communicated.

Thankfully that year is almost up. Larry called again this morning. Thank God for email and cell phones. He actually has been calling from his AT&T cell phone at only $2.50/minute. That is amazing ... he couldn't be further away. He sounds so good and says he is so excited to be headed home that he really doesn't feel tired after the travel of the last few days.

He'll be headed out of Kuwait on Saturday, Apr 5 arriving at Ft. Benning, GA some 26-30 hours later. WOW! That's a very long journey. As I have more detail I will pass it along. Please continue to pray for weather, flights, safety, and mostly his physical stamina through it all.

Until later ...

No April fools ...

2008-04-01T12:08:00.000-07:00

Larry just called, he sounded so good and upbeat. He is in Kuwait. Where he has been since Saturday I do not know. He was anxious to allow all his buddies to use his cell phone to call their wives. He'll either call or email in a couple days and I'll give you all the details ... thank you Lord.

Until later .....

Waiting builds character ...

2008-04-01T09:11:00.000-07:00

Isaiah 40:31 but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.

Until later ...

You are all amazing ...

2008-03-31T16:55:00.000-07:00

Thank you for your prayers and calls and words of encouragement. Although I still have heard nothing I feel so loved and protected by the prayers of the faithful friends and family we have.

As hard as it is for me to believe, God loves Larry more than I ever could begin to imagine and He has him right where He wants him right now ... in that I am resting :)

Until I hear ...

It's been 32 hours ....

2008-03-30T19:30:00.000-07:00

You know the saying ... no news is good news :) I am sure they are all being debriefed and whatever else happens when you leave a war zone for good.

Until later ...

I promise you'll hear when I do ...

2008-03-29T21:13:00.000-07:00

Thank you all for your continued prayers today. It's 9:15 PM PST and still no word from Larry. As soon as I hear I will post it so you all will know too.

I just checked the weather in Kuwait City and it is 98 degrees today. WOW! heating up already. I bet Larry sure is glad to not have to withstand another summer there. I know I am :)

Until later ...

It won't be long ...

2008-03-29T08:32:00.000-07:00

Larry should be on a plane and into Kuwait before noon California time. The weather is not very cooperative right now with high winds and dust. Please continue to pray for their safety and uninterrupted travels. We are all so ready for him to be USA bound.

2 days and a wake up ...

2008-03-27T07:23:00.000-07:00

Dateline: March 27, 2008

Camp Ramadi, al Anbar Province

By Command Sergeant Major Larry Johnson

I and my associates who are leaving Camp Ramadi with me are fortunate to be departing at this time. The fighting with JAM (Jaish al-Mahdi), the Army of the religious extremist Shiite cleric Moqtada al-Sadr, has escalated in recent days and poses a real danger to thousands of U.S. troops. As the street fighting continues with these thugs and criminals with weapons it forces the Iraqi government to take responsibility in dealing with these lawbreakers and enforcing the rule of law. Unfortunately, these actions are not unilateral and any fighting will ensnare U.S. forces. The U.S. military is in a delicate position when it comes to the fighting between JAM and Iraqi Security Forces because Al-Sadr is part of the coalition that keeps Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki (also a Shiite) in power. As AQI is weakened and driven from the country by U.S. forces the sectarian violence between Shiites and Sunnis increases.

I am so tired of the grind and I am really glad to be leaving this time around. In many ways this tour has been the most difficult and most arduous of the previous tours because dealing with the Arab culture is so difficult and so time consuming. In a strictly kinetic (combat) situation patience and dialog are not the rule of the day, but in nation building it takes all the polite endurance one can muster. Sergeant Majors are not, by nature, the most patient and tolerant of the “nation builders”. Those of you who know me will find this thought mildly amusing. In other words it is much easier to tear things up and break stuff than it is to rebuild it. That having been said here I am this time around surrounded by Department of State personnel trying to make a difference. I tell you I’ll never complain about doing anything bureaucratic in the U.S. again upon my return.

Our journey home begins on 29 March and I should be in my pool by 12 April and beginning my rehabilitation and re-integration back into civilization. I look forward to seeing everyone soon and picking up where we all left off. Don’t anyone call me and say, “Larry let’s go camping because it won’t happen in your life time”. Go Giants; and thank God for room service.

W2R (Whiskey-2-Romeo)-signing of the Net

He is Risen ...

2008-03-23T09:15:00.001-07:00

On this beautiful Easter morning here is a sunrise photo I found online in Iraq to exemplify what Larry might have just seen when he emailed these words:

"We had a great Easter Sunday sunrise service a little saddened by the memory of the members of 3/69 who were killed here in Iraq. We were up on the roof of a building so we could see the sunrise very well. We also sang Amazing Grace. It was great. We went and presented 3 medals to members of the scout platoon who provided for our personal security."

Regardless of your location, your race, or your status ... this is the day that billions of people around the world celebrate our Risen Savior. He has risen for us all and on this day please remember those who are less fortunate than yourself as He rose for us all.

Thank you Father for Larry's enthusiasm and commitment to you regardless of his circumstances ... he is truly a child of Yours.

In less than a week ...

2008-03-21T09:55:00.001-07:00

Believe it or not a year has passed and in only days Larry will be headed for Kuwait and then on to the USA ...

It has been amazing how quickly time has passed. I'm not saying that it has been easy but we are thankful that time seemed to fly by.
My estimation is that Larry will be home and in my arms sometime between Apr 8-12. Please continue to lift up his travels ... the flights are intolerably long. May they go quickly as well, may he be blessed with the ability to sleep a lot and arrive home with little effect from the journey.

As always, your support has sustained us. We love you all ...

Words from the CSM himself ...

2008-03-09T12:40:00.000-07:00

Dateline: March 9, 2008

Camp Ramadi, al Anbar Province

By Command Sergeant Major Larry Johnson

Twenty days remain of the final tour of Iraq for me. It is with mixed feelings that I approach the end of my tenure here in al Anbar Province. I am glad to be heading home to family and friends, just as I will be leaving others who have become my family here. I can honestly say that I have met some of the greatest people that I have ever been associated with here, both as professionals and as individuals; COL Ken Rathje, Mr. Buster Tate, Mr. John Gerlaugh, and LTC Jay Descamps. More often than not, one of these individuals saved the day for the rest of us in some small way. God Bless Them All.

I’ll also be sad to lose contact with 3^rd Battalion, 69^th Armor, 3^rd Infantry Division from Ft. Stewart, GA. 3/69 adopted the PRT when we hit the ground at FOB Blue Diamond and continued to support and care for our organization as if we were one of them. MAJ (Dr.) Roundtree, CPT (Chaplain) Kline, and the Scouts of Delta Company, 3/69 who provided for all of our security will remain in my mind and heart forever; as will many others. During our time together 3/69 lost 6 Soldiers killed in action and I’d like to offer a special prayer for those Soldiers and their families.

As I look back now, time seemed to tick by very quickly and it hardly seems possible that an entire year has passed. I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone that supported me throughout my tour. Your thoughtfulness and prayers certainly carried me through some dark times. Thank you.

My military future is still in question. I have not heard from a number 0f opportunities that I approached as a follow on assignment. If I do not catch something new, I will return to the 393^rd Military Police Battalion CID (Criminal Investigation Division), 6^th MP Group, Ft Lewis, WA.

Presently, my rank and pay grade are a real budget buster for many assignments that would be a good fit for me personally. I will be able to retire with 30 years of service after January 11, 2009. So we shall see what is in store for me soon.

Remember, “Your passion must exceed your fear”. I’ll drop a final line once I return stateside to tie up any loose ends.

We Praise Him in this storm ....

2008-03-08T07:50:00.000-08:00

This is the cry of our hearts ... we live with passion and purpose ...

Our love to all who read and watch this ...

Thirty days and counting ...

2008-03-05T20:02:00.000-08:00

today marks the 30 day mark ... Lord willing, Larry will be out of Kuwait and on a flight for the incredible United States of America. With a stop over at a stateside post he should be home just a few days later.

As you've proven, please continue to pray for timely departures, short layovers, and a safe return home to Tracy, California. And you could throw in an extra one for me to have everything in the order that I want it for his return ... we appreciate and love you all dearly.

I'm so proud ...

2008-02-29T18:58:00.000-08:00

Here is the Press Release sent to our local paper about Larry:

7 February 2008

Tracy Press

Tracy, California

Reporter: Liz Tan (ltan97@yahoo.com)

Tracy resident, US Army Sergeant Major Larry R. Johnson was awarded his second Bronze Star Medal for combat operations in Iraq on January 11, 2008. SGM Johnson is currently serving in Al Anbar Province as a member of the Provincial Reconstruction Team paired with the II Marine Expeditionary Force that has seen action in both Ramadi and Fallujah. SGM Johnson received the medal for meritorious actions with one oak leaf cluster from Lieutenant General Raymond T. Odierno, Commander of the Multi-National Corps-Iraq. SGM Johnson was also awarded the Navy/Marine Accommodation Medal for other actions.

The 29 year Military Police veteran has served two tours in Iraq totaling more than 26 months. SGM Johnson moved to Tracy in 1969 where he resides with his wife Terri Johnson, a local Realtor, and his family. He will begin his return stateside from Iraq by the middle of March and will be home the first week in April.

A Provincial Reconstruction Team is a civilian-military inter-agency effort that provides the primary connection between U.S. and coalition partners and provincial and local governments.

For Official Release

Charles V. Hawley

PRT PDO for Anbar Province

U.S.

Embassy - Baghdad

He loves to travel ...

2008-02-07T12:57:00.000-08:00

I had to chuckle to myself today when Larry informed me he was flying to Fallujah for a couple days. As most of you know, he loves to travel. I guess you have to be careful what you wish for. I think what he meant by "love to travel" is a luxury jet liner, a trip to a warm climate and with the company of his wife that adores him. Instead he travels in full battle gear, by helicopter which is not quite as quiet and comfortable as a jet, he is in a warm "HOT" climate and I'm not there with him but he does have over 100,000 of his closest buddies with him.

All joking aside, last time we talked Larry said that time is still passing quickly. We've been out of our regular email routine with the move to Ramadi and lack of facilities but, with the end in sight it just doesn't seem to be as big a problem as it may have been 10 months ago.

We still don't know what is in store for him or us when he returns to the states but when we do ... you'll know too ...

Words I've been so anxious to hear ...

2008-01-30T19:45:00.000-08:00

Communication has been far less than desirable since they have been on the move. All have arrived safely in Camp Ramadi but there are no computers hooked up and Larry's satellite phone is in the conex (?) with all his belonging.

He called last night on a pay phone and we talked for 30 minutes ... you can't imagine how that made my day. But what really made my day was, "we'll be out of here around March 21st ... on to Kuwait for an undetermined number of days and then back to the states."

Praise God! I am so excited that the end is in sight. It's hard to imagine how long 1 year is until you spend it doing something you really don't want to do ... that's from my perspective; not Larry's. To have him back in the states will be such a relief.

There's no way to thank you all the way we want to for your support and daily (sometimes hourly) encouragement. Until later ...

On the move ...

2008-01-25T15:52:00.001-08:00

They are on the move ... bags in hand with no place to go. Unbelievable ... I know, but the new base is not complete and they must leave Camp Blue Diamond. Just like any other job site ... way off schedule. Here's what Mr. Johnson has to say about it:

"We will be in tents like the old days (he means in 2003) for a couple of weeks. They will have wood floors and some heat, but since they are not insulated it will still be interesting. The hike to the john in the middle of the night is always a hoot especially for the old guys like me. (they have to completely suit up, flack jacket and all) You are better off showering mid day than morning or evening. Some people would call this a vacation. (he means camping ... but according to him, we don't camp anymore after all his camping in Iraq)"

Before we know it, it will be February and then March and then ... you got it ... back to the states. That day will not possibly be here soon enough. Thank you all for so much support and especially your prayers. Until later ....

They're moving ...

2008-01-10T09:40:00.000-08:00

Looks like the move to the new base is just about here.

PLEASE NOTE NEW MAILING ADDRESS
(don't send anything until January 15th to assure the post office is opened)

Larry's pretty excited because his new place is exactly that ... BRAND NEW ... which to Mr. Johnson means clean and tidy. He loves that. In addition, looks like he will not be sharing with a roommate. That too is to his liking.

Time seems to be moving quickly for him. He says at this rate April seems like a month away ... I hope that feeling lasts for all our sakes.

Update from Ramadi ...

2007-12-21T09:25:00.000-08:00

Dateline: December 30, 2007
FOB Blue Diamond, al Anbar Province
By Command Sergeant Major Larry Johnson

It is time for one more up-date from Forward Operating Base Blue Diamond. Our affairs have been very busy since our last correspondence; my two associates COL “R” and Mr. “T” are both gone on their well deserved R&R leave. The Colonel has young children at home and it is good that he will get to be with them for the holidays. Mr. “T”, (does he have any family?) on the other hand who; works for one of those alphabet agencies, always wears sunglasses, and won’t let me take his picture swore to me that he was going to the North Pole to see Santa. Said he had a deal for Santa that he couldn’t refuse.

As for me I am here shouldering the whole load. Now, I get to take all the good trips and do all the fun stuff. Last week I accompanied the Provincial Governor and others to Fallujah for a grand opening of a municipal government building. (see photos) It was one of those rare daytime helicopter flights and it was motivating to spend the day surrounded by enough fire power to take out a small Army. Plenty of Generals, Tribal Shieks, and dignitaries to go around and of course what would any Iraqi engagement be without Johnson’s favorite “If it don’t come from Safeway, Johnson don’t eat it” meal of goat, rice, and what was that……..? It was a good flight down and back, no surface to air missiles and just a few sniper rounds while we were on the ground movement.

Two days later a trip to Ramadi saw me inspecting the status of our new cantonment area located across the Euphrates River on Camp Ramadi. Things are progressing there at decent pace and we should be packing up and moving our operations in a few weeks. All military folks love relocating from one battle space to another, especially in the winter and mud. On the 24-25 of December I will be out and about with members of the Combined Arms (infantry and armor) Battalion here at BD distributing a Christmas meal and gifts to the company sized units located at the remote combat outposts that FOB Blue Diamond supports. Many of the units are up to 4 hours away by armored convoy so it will be around a 48 hour operation to get dinner, gifts, and the Chaplain by to see them all.

By the way, all of you who sent packages I can assure you that they will be well received. Thank you. You would be surprised at how many Soldiers over here have little or no family. Your thoughts and well wishes mean a great deal to them. Before the New Year, I will be off to northwestern Iraq for a reconnaissance near the Syrian border (Thank you Mr. “T”), snooping and pooping for the II Marine Expeditionary Force (Forward). This is all very hush, hush so I cannot speak further about it. The trip should produce an interesting series of events.

After that I think, I am grounded until after the first week in January and by then my battle buddies will begin returning.
On a personal note, we are in the fourth quarter now and at times we are starting to feel the grind and fatigue. Right now and for the next 30-45 days is the worst and most dangerous time of any deployment. We are drained and as of yet the euphoria of rotating home soon is still a dream. By the middle of February the anticipation of leaving and rotating back to the states will convey everyone through until the end. The daily contact with friends and loved ones is really what gets all of us through this period.

I wish each and every one of you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year and we here in Iraq will be praying for all of you just as we know you are praying for us and our safety. We are all particularly thankful for your support.

The truth ...

2007-12-17T07:15:00.001-08:00

Many of you have noticed that I haven't posted anything significant for a while. And many of you probably haven't noticed at all because you are completely wrapped up in the busyness of the "holiday season" forgetting completely why we celebrate Christmas.

This is the hardest time of any family's deployment. Oh we remember the reason for Christmas and we pray fervently to The Reason for safety, peace, joy, and safe travels home for our soldiers. It is a time that can be difficult to muster a holiday spirit because we so desperately want our loved ones back home. Be patient with us ... try to imagine not having the one you love the most here with you at Christmas to share in all the festivities. Try to understand how easy it would be to feel alone in a crowd because part of you is thousands of miles away in a war zone; also alone.

Larry is a bit down this season, all his closest buddies are leaving today to spend the holidays with their families. Although he is excited for them remembering how our time together was just a few weeks ago, he'll miss them terribly.

Keep our soldiers in your prayers, help the family of a soldier in your community, give them an opportunity to just get away from reality for a few hours if you can. There is not better gift than to be there for the families; it helps the soldiers too.

God bless you all this Christmas and in the coming year. We appreciate you all so very much.

A Different Kind of Christmas Poem

2007-12-12T06:55:00.000-08:00

The embers glowed softly, and in their dim light,
I gazed round the room and I cherished the sight.
My wife was asleep, her head on my chest,
My daughter beside me, angelic in rest.

Outside the snow fell, a blanket of white,
Transforming the yard to a winter delight.
The sparkling lights in the tree I believe,
Completed the magic that was Christmas Eve.

My eyelids were heavy, my breathing was deep,
Secure and surrounded by love I would sleep.
In perfect contentment, or so it would seem,
So I slumbered, perhaps I started to dream.

The sound wasn't loud, and it wasn't too near,
But I opened my eyes when it tickled my ear.
Perhaps just a cough, I didn't quite know, Then the
sure sound of footsteps outside in the snow.

My soul gave a tremble, I struggled to hear,
And I crept to the door just to see who was near.
Standing out in the cold and the dark of the night,
A lone figure stood, his face weary and tight.

A soldier, I puzzled, some twenty years old,
Perhaps a Marine, huddled here in the cold.
Alone in the dark, he looked up and smiled,
Standing watch over me, and my wife and my child.

"What are you doing?" I asked without fear,
"Come in this moment, it 's freezing out here!
Put down your pack, brush the snow from your sleeve,
You should be at home on a cold Christmas Eve!"

For barely a moment I saw his eyes shift,
Away from the cold and the snow blown in drifts..
To the window that danced with a warm fire's light
Then he sighed and he said "Its really all right,

I'm out here by choice. I'm here every night."
"It's my duty to stand at the front of the line,
That separates you from the darkest of times.
No one had to ask or beg or implore me,

I'm proud to stand here like my fathers before me.
My Gramps died at ' Pearl on a day in December,"
Then he sighed, "That's a Christmas 'Gram always remembers."
My dad stood his watch in the jungles of ' Nam ',

And now it is my turn and so, here I am.
I've not seen my own son in more than a while,
But my wife sends me pictures, he's sure got her smile.
Then he bent and he carefully pulled from his bag,

The red, white, and blue... an American flag.
I can live through the cold and the being alone,
Away from my family, my house and my home.
I can stand at my post through the rain and the sleet,
I can sleep in a foxhole with little to eat.

I can carry the weight of killing another,
Or lay down my life with my sister and brother..
Who stand at the front against any and all,
To ensure for all time that this flag will not fall."

"So go back inside," he said, "harbor no fright,
Your family is waiting and I'll be all right."
"But isn't there something I can do, at the least,
"Give you money," I asked, "or prepare you a feast?

It seems all too little for all that you've done,
For being away from your wife and your son."
Then his eye welled a tear that held no regret,
"Just tell us you love us, and never forget.

To fight for our rights back at home while we're gone,
To stand your own watch, no matter how long.
For when we come home, either standing or dead,
To know you remember we fought and we bled.

Is payment enough, and with that we will trust,
That we mattered to you as you mattered to us."

Words from the CSM ...

2007-12-01T08:13:00.000-08:00

Dateline: November 30, 2007

FOB Blue Diamond, al Anbar Province

By Command Sergeant Major Larry Johnson

Good wishes friends and family, it has been a moment or two since my last reflection from the Land of Oz. Incidentally, we here refer to where you live or anywhere remotely like it as Disneyland.

The troop surge is succeeding and the kinetic operational activity is taking an extreme toll on al-Qaeda (AQI) and on the Jaysh al Mahid Army (JAM). On a better note, to date this month there have been 27 US combat deaths in Iraq; I believe last month there were 39. This is the six consecutive month this year in which a decline in combat deaths has been posted since a high mark of 120 in May. Of the 27 KIA this month, 24 were a result of IEDs and 3 were inflicted by small arms fire. The decline in US and Coalition Forces losses gives rise to cause the stress level for everyone to roll back a notch or two, but events still remain perilous here in the most violent providence in Iraq. There are still many affairs hereabouts to be anxious about. The good news is that the weather for now is no longer one of the reasons for concern.

For now, our biggest apprehension is whether or not our legislative leaders will ensure our troops have the resources to continue to safely do their jobs and complete the mission. For whatever reason, one faction of that leadership does not want to acknowledge advancement forward as a consequence of the troop surge on the combat front here in Iraq. Subsequently, the principal action for the nay-sayers to pull off is a cut back to funding and to transform the lives and well being of thousands of US Service Members into a political football. We have enough to fret about day to day without agonizing about whether or not there are enough bullets, fuel, or food to do the job. Whatever happened to the moderates and doing what is best for the country as a whole. Should anyone reading this communication have the inclination to call and or write their personal legislative representative and chat about the matter one way or the other; it would be appreciated by those of us here at the tip of the spear.

On a personal note, I returned to duty about a month ago from a great R&R visit to the states for 21 days. The experience could not have worked out any better; the travel, the weather, and the wonderful time spent with my family and friends was fantastic. I told Terri that I was determined to eat my way through California and I nearly did. I think I gained 3-4 pounds while at home. Regrettably, upon my return all 21 days of predicaments were here waiting for me. You all know the feeling on Monday after you have just returned to work from a three week vacation. I missed a class reunion in October; however I was blessed to receive cards and well wishes from several of my favorite classmates. My special thanks to Joanne and Dennis Seibel, Kay, John, Sharon, and Terry. I will not reveal which year I (we) graduated nor will I admit how long I have been out of school. A good friend of Terri and I named Zan Monroe has a great saying, “show me your five best friends and I’ll show you who you are”. If that is the case, I do not know where that leaves me because I could not possibly limit the number of my best friends to less than 50 and maybe more. He also is responsible for my personal favorite sergeant major saying that goes something like this, “nobody rides me like a rented mule”. Anyone who really knows me will get a big kick and laugh out of that.

In the pressing future the catchphrase around here at the PRT is transition. The composition of the PRT is evolving from a Department of Defense framework to one structured of primarily Department of State and contract personnel. Before long the civilians from DoS will replace the military personnel entirely. In fact Ambassador John Negroponte the Deputy Secretary of State was here at Forward Operating Base Blue Diamond this week paving the way for just such an undertaking. In addition, the II Marine Expeditionary Force (Forward) our parent unit is transitioning out and being relieved in place by the I Marine Expeditionary Force (Forward) and a whole new force structure. That transfer of authority in and of itself is a major mission and will be the source many hours of mid-night oil being spent. Finally, we are approaching a substitution to a circumstance in which the Iraqi Army (IA) and the Iraqi Police (IP) will provide the inclusive provincial security and the coalition forces will move into an over watch mission. Needless to say the next 4 months will be very demanding and we will experience many adjustments. Everyone here will be struggling to keep several balls aloft at one period in time.

That is it from Ramadi for now. I will attempt to be a little timelier with my next report. Perhaps I’ll send a holiday message. There is nothing on earth like Christmas week and the New Year celebration in a combat theater. Please reflect on the significance of that reality as you and your family rightfully and freely take pleasure in your Holiday Season together.

God Bless You All.

Happy Thanksgiving ...

2007-11-23T19:24:00.000-08:00

Here is what Larry had to say about his day:

"We had an excellent holiday meal here for the noon meal. The COL and I, along with the other brass served the meal. We worked on the shrimp coctail bar serving up the shrimp to everyone. It was a very good meal, but it take along time to feed 2000 soldiers and contractors. There were also dozens of Iraqi Army soldiers that were also invited to eat. Funny, they won't have any part shrimp."

Lord, thank you for a man tha is so willing to serve others, serve our great country and especially who serves you!

How could I have forgotten ...

2007-11-20T10:12:00.000-08:00

The most memorable thing that happened while Larry was home on leave was that we were so cleverly informed that we are going to be grandparents. David and Kari are expecting in Jun 08. They waited until Larry got home to tell us.

They mailed us a package and had us call before we opened it. It had a letter from our new grandchild announcing his or her pending arrival date. It was full of lots of baby things. What a precious moment for us all.

Nana and Grampie are very excited to say the least; that's us. I would have included a photo but he or she has not quite taken form yet :)

Back in the saddle ...

2007-11-19T12:30:00.000-08:00

Larry says that things are back to normal for him there at Camp Blue Diamond. They thought they'd be moving while he was home so he packed all his belongings so that no one else would have to. True to form for the Army, the move is now 4-6 weeks out so he has unpacked and redecorated his digs; he calls it the hooch.

He says that time goes by quickly and for that he is so grateful. The holidays are of course just a little tougher than your average day. Knowing that family and friends are all enjoying one another must make it hard. But we are thankful that as soon as we get through this holiday season it won't be long until he is home. Of course we do not know that date but sometime in April we expect.

Anyone sending Christmas greetings remember that it can take as long a 2-3 weeks. Thank you for your support and prayers. Love to all and thanks to those who provide this freedom we so freely enjoy!

He's back safely ...

2007-11-12T10:36:00.000-08:00

I just received an email from Larry. Although very tired he is back to Camp Blue Diamond safely. It took him 52 hours which seems to be an eternity but it certainly could have taken much longer. Thank you for your prayers of protection ...

Time flies when you're in love ...

2007-11-11T14:46:00.001-08:00

21 days has come and gone. Larry headed back to Iraq yesterday. He called this morning at 8AM our time and was in Kuwait. Again he was blessed so far by getting there faster than he thought he would.

What did we do for 21 days ... it would be tough to recall it all but a recap is that we spent a lot of time with loved ones. We had dinner with friends and family when it was possible. We took a little trip to the mountains. And best of all we spent a lot of time at home relaxing and pretending life was normal; whatever that is.

I was able to take the entire 21 days off work thanks to a friend at the office who handled my escrows. What a blessing. It as the best 21 days so far this year.

I've included a few photos so you can see how great he looks ...

He's in the USA ...

2007-10-19T11:21:00.000-07:00

Thank You Jesus! Larry just called from Dallas. He'll be in Sacramento this evening just after 5:00 PM ... to say that we are excited is an UNDERSTATEMENT!

5:25 AM in California

2007-10-19T05:22:00.000-07:00

... and I have not heard from my precious soldier. Bless him Lord as he patiently travels those thousands of miles to spend 21 days with those he loves so dearly. Please keep him safe ...

Still no word ...

2007-10-18T14:03:00.000-07:00

It's been 26 hours according to my calculations since he left Camp Blue Diamond. I have not heard anything at all however, I think no news means he is in route .... YIPPEE! I promise to keep you all posted ....

Pretty sure he's on his way ...

2007-10-17T17:37:00.000-07:00

Here is what this morning's email had to say:

"I leave tonight the 17th in the middle of the night. I have to make 2 stops before I land at TQ (Marine Air Base) then I wait there until I get stand-by on a C130 to Ali Al Saleem Air Base in Kuwait. I will be there 1-2 days waiting for a bird to the states. I will be in the states Sun or Mon at best and Tues at the worst. I will let you know as soon as possible what is up.

I am getting excited, but I will be more so when I get to Atlanta or Dallas. The travel here is such that it is hard to get too excited until you leave this environment behind. There is also the chance that the flights could be canceled due to weather along the way and that will slow me up. My leave does not start until the day after I get home."

Dear friends ... that is a long time to be traveling. Please pray for safety, patience, ability to sleep and restfulness as his trek begins. Your prayers are what get us both through each and every day apart ....

ONLY 4 DAYS ...

2007-10-13T16:52:00.000-07:00

until Larry leaves Iraq bound for the country he so proudly serves. His flights will all be stand by so it may take several days for the journey around the world.

Please pray for him to rest well, be content and occupied in his travels and for a safe return to all of us who love him dearly.

These last few days are crawling by for me. The anticipation and excitement is building. We are so anxious to be in one another's arms. The feelings are truly overwhelming. We have nothing planned. We thought we'd just decide when he gets here what we'd like to do. There is nothing he is looking more forward to than just being home...

Dateline: Ramadi, al Anbar Province

2007-10-03T20:05:00.000-07:00

CSM Larry Johnson
October 3, 2007

For the last week or so my Commander, COL Rathje and I have been on the road attending several meetings and briefings with the G5 Staff of the MNF-(W) Headquarters Command II MEF(FWD) in Fallujah and in the IZ(international zone), Baghdad. We are attending to the transitioning of the PRT mission from one of a military (DoD) lead footprint to one in which the civilians (DoS) and USAID take up the principal role as the political and economic action arm of the MNF-I Coalition Forces interagency team. At some point the military will take on an overwatch/security mission and then most interactions with Iraqi’s will be by U.S. civilians.

Travel continues to be the thorn in our side. Because of the vast distances between destinations all of our travel continues to be by Marine helicopter assets scheduled during the wee hours of the morning. A week or so of this type of movement is hard on this “old” body; as this always was and still is a young mans game. Never-the-less it is what it is. The good news is that in less than two weeks I will be rotating up on my mid-tour R&R and I will be getting some much needed TLC at home from Rex (Terri-short for T-Rex).

The mission here continues to be difficult, however there has been definite progress and by this time next year Iraq will have turned the corner. The surge is paying great dividends here in al Anbar and by early 2008 the view from Anbar and Iraq will be much clearer. Kinetic operations and the heroic actions of great professional soldiers continue to weaken AQI and JAM (Jaysh al Mahdi Army). Let us all pray for the Iraqi people to have the occasion to control their own destiny. “And so it goes.”

CSM Larry Johnson

Words from CSM Johnson ...

2007-09-22T09:44:00.000-07:00

Dateline: FOB Blue Diamond
22 September 2007

The U.S. Military, a small force by historical standards is extended well beyond itself after more than six years of fighting the war on terrorism. Repeated deployments of active military members and reservists and reduced “dwell times” between postings to the war zone have taxed soldiers and is taking a growing toll on the home front. In the Army at this time there are 44 Brigade Combat Teams, 43 of which have deployed to Iraq or Afghanistan at lease once and more than half of those units have deployed 2 or 3 times.

To have 1 percent of this nation’s citizens bear 100 percent of the burden is morally wrong. “To Support the Troops” takes on a whole new meaning. In the military family our experience is that we live in two different worlds-the one for everybody else, and the one for military families and service people. To have “skin in the game” means; that you or a close friend have a family member deployed in a Combat Theater in support of Operations OIF or OEF. Unless you’ve got “skin in the game” or know someone who does, it just doesn’t seem to matter. Most of America is at the mall. You say, “Well, what can I do?”

The stress of the battle field is debilitating; and it is compounded when combined with the strain from home. Consider the added stress placed on the Soldier as he deals with the day-to-day rigors of combat knowing that his wife is at home with three small children dealing with the weight of the world. We’ve all been there; remember what that feels like? She is on duty 24/7, everyday of the entire deployment. If you want to help, contact your local church and find out how to get in touch with the families of deployed Soldiers within the congregation. Offer to watch the children for an afternoon or a morning so Mom can have some time for herself. If you have a friend interested; better yet, give Mom two breaks a week. It will make all the difference in the world to that family. That my friend is “Supporting the Troops” and for that I salute you.

I decided to write this posting after reading an article titled: Gut Check: Iraq war’s impact at home, by Kari Huus. I could never get my point across as eloquently as Ms Huus, but it sure made me stop and think. I am grateful for her words and I thank God everyday for Mrs. Johnson and my three adult sons.

SGM Larry Johnson
Al Anbar

We Finally Spoke ...

2007-09-21T16:00:00.000-07:00

Larry called this morning ... we hadn't talked on the phone in 2 weeks due to the insecure environment in that region right now. He sounded so good. He is in fact going to be on a mission all of next week ... he'll be fine. We must think positive and uplifting thoughts to keep him and his comrades safe.

We talked for an hour and boy howdy was that fun. I had a list a mile long of things to chat about. You can only imagine. Before long he'll be home for a 21 day rest and relaxation leave. YIPPEE!! We are excited about that :)

Outside the wire again ...

2007-09-19T09:32:00.000-07:00

"I will be on the road beginning the night of .................................... (next week-dates blocked for safety) Going to the IZ (Int'l Zone) with COL Rathje. I have been ducking it for months, he thinks I need to get out of here and get a change of scenery. I guess it won't be that bad. We have two meetings, one for banking and one for turning over Prov. control to the Iraqi's by the USMC in Anbar.

I need to get to work, I am interviewing a local national about travel in and around the province. "

Upon Larry's return from this mission he will be within 30 days of his R&R trip home. We are all so excited for a break and to be in one another's arms again. Your continued prayers and support are what keeps him safe and sane .... thank you :)

The Value of A Day ...

2007-09-18T06:12:00.000-07:00

You probably have noticed that the blog posts are slowing down. This is because as I read Larry's email daily, little changes now that they are settled in. Here is what his thoughts were for today:

"Today went well, or I should say it did not drag by and that is really how we approach the value of each day. I know we are making some difference here, but one cannot measure it day to day and it gets very frustrating. In fact there has been more than one civilian who has gone home for R&R and not come back at all. A few folks around here are starting to wonder what this is all about, we have discussed it and we are trying to figure out what is up. It may be that people are just saying it is not worth it.

One thing is for sure we as Americans want progress more than the Iraqi's do, or so it seems to us in our dealings with them. Anyway, it was a good day and I am happy it is almost over. Did Mike's nephew who was in the Marines rotate back home yet or is he still in Iraq? We are still getting new people everyday and there is more talk about us getting swapped out with DOS so we are curious about that.

I hope you have a great day today at work, I know good things are going to come your way today. Remind everyone you see today, that no matter what is happening in their day that they are so blessed to live in the greatest nation in the world. Baby, I love you and my force is with you today."

It saddens me that our dedicated men and women have days like this. I know many days are better than others but I pray that they know they are making a difference more often than not. What I am most proud of is that Larry is committed regardless of how he feels today. There is a lot we can learn from these brave soldiers & civilians serving for us ...

Bad Day for Ramadi

2007-09-13T07:05:00.000-07:00

Here is email I received this morning ...

"Well Dear....we have had a great loss and set back here today. The most powerful leader in Anbar Province Sheik Sattar was assassinated today. He was the one instrumental in fighting against al-Qaida here locally. Now, I believe all bets to be off and we are wondering what the fallout will be and what will happen next. If they can get to the most powerful guy around they can get to anybody. He just met with the President last week, it is like they're saying, look nobody is safe. We could not be more shocked and disappointed. Well, I can only say that I will be only too happy to leave here for good. This place is pure B.S. Love-Me."

As you always are ... please be praying for the safety and success of the brave men and women who are there doing what they so valiantly believe in for the well-being of us all. Living in these conditions day in and day out is mentally taxing and physically exhausting to say the least. Thank you for your support ...

Under the weather ...

2007-09-04T08:10:00.000-07:00

Today is the first day that Larry is feeling some semblance of normal. The last mission either he picked up a bug or he is exhausted and wearing down. He missed a day or two of work and was pretty sick. Please pray for the health and strength of he and his comrades as they serve in these conditions that most of us would fold under. They are tired and hot most all the time.

The weather should be cooling off soon (he says October) and they are looking forward to that. But more importantly he is looking forward to his 2 week R&R (rest and relaxation) in late October. He'll be home for a couple of weeks and able to let his guard down and regroup for the second half of this deployment. At this point we are both praying for days to fly by ...

Celebrating w/ the Sheik & another trip to the market

2007-08-26T20:23:00.000-07:00

26 August 2007
FOB Blue Diamond
Al Anbar

Dateline-Ramadi – Well the last few days have certainly have been interesting to say the least. My travels began Thursday, 23 August 07 with an invitation to have a late dinner with one of the local sheiks. A number of the of the Provincial Reconstruction Team (PRT) members were invited by Marine Task Force 3/7 to join one of the local power brokers, Sheik Awath of the Bagode Tribe; a sub-tribe of the larger Alwani Tribe, for dinner. The dinner began around 22:00 and ended somewhere close to 02:00.

The security was quite tight because it would have been great for Al Qaeda Iraq (AQI) to ambush or attack such an event. The Bagode Tribe was one of the first of the Al Anbar Provincial Tribes to join the “Al Anbar Awakening”, a movement of the local tribes in the Ramadi area to join with Coalition Forces to fight AQI. They were involved in some of the most violent and bloody fighting in Ramadi against AQI. COL Salam, known as The Lion of Ramadi, a popular local hero who was killed in the fighting for Ramadi was a member of the Bagode Tribe. He was one of eleven sons and almost all of his brothers are top members of the Iraqi Police (IPs) and very well thought of by American Forces. This was kind of a thank you dinner for all the support and help provided to the Bagode Tribe by Marines and Army Forces. There were lots of speeches and a good deal of interaction between all the players in the political arena.

On Friday, 24 August 07 myself and Mr. Tate, one of my PRT team mates, were picked up at dark up from FOB Blue Diamond by the “Riverines”, USMC assets and we traveled down the Euphrates River in a Zodiac raft to the USMC stronghold at Hurricane Point near the center of Ramadi. It is much safer to travel on the river than on the roads because of the IED danger.

Mr. Tate and I then convoyed by armored vehicle with the Marines to a 23:30 meeting at Joint Security Station (JSS) Sabatash with a local national involved with youth sports in the Sabatash, Jumayah, and Azzizziah neighborhoods of Ramadi. That meeting lasted until 02:00 and we finally got to bed at Hurricane Point around 03:00. We were up again at 06:00 for a convoy back to JSS Sabatash for a foot patrol to the Souk (market) with other members of the PRT. The patrol began around 08:00 and terminated around 12:00.

At around 18:00 we departed again on foot patrol to the farming area along Euphrates River and ended up at a coffee house that we and our Marines had visited previously. To our disappointment it was closed for remodeling, but as nearly always happens here in Iraq the owner heard that we were there and arrived shortly thereafter. He insisted on providing dinner for all of us (my 4^th Iraqi meal in 48 hours). For any of you who know me, this is a big joke with my team and Terri, because “if it don’t come from Safeway Johnson don’t eat it”. We had dinner at dusk, outside on the Euphrates River; the Cradle of Civilization without a McDonalds within 5,000 miles, just my luck. Anyway, by the time we made it back to Sabatash and then on to our home base at FOB Blue Diamond it was 23:30.

I was physically spent from the physical difficulty of the patrols, the heat, and from zero nourishment (I am not eating that!!). That sums up my last 48 hours; and oh-by-the-way I will be eating lots of ice cream in the chow hall tonight (Sunday night). Signed: CSM Larry Johnson

Some good stuff coming soon ...

2007-08-23T11:14:00.000-07:00

Yesterday Larry told me several of them are all going out to a Sheik's house for a celebration. It will be a number of units and all of the PRT (Provincial Reconstruction Team). I asked Larry to give me lots of details as this sounds like it'll be interesting. He promises that after the weekend we'll have a good story as he is going to the market again on Saturday for another foot patrol. Their transportation is a Zodiac, one of those big rubber rafts that you see the Navy Seals using. Carries about six people with a big engine in the back. It is used for all water missions. The place they are going is right across the river and it is easier and faster to use the raft than to convoy all the way around all the bridges and roadways. Plus there are no IEDs in the water. Stay tuned ...

On the move ...

2007-08-16T07:29:00.000-07:00

Amazingly, Larry's spirits remain high. He is the scout for their new impending move to Camp Ramadi.

"I will be out on the road today between 1300 and 1600. I need to go to Camp Ramadi to check on our move to that location in December. Our 1/2 day off has been changed to Friday (that is the Iraqi Sunday and they don't work on that day) so I will not be off on Sunday anymore. However, we can still go to church, that is considered the same as working. It will be like 1 and a half days off so that is good. Time still seems to going pretty fast for us, soon my leave date will be inside 60 days and a few days after I get back it will be December."

Before we know it he'll be home for his 2-week R&R (rest & relaxation). That always helps break up the monotony of our separation. The change in days off really is a blessing because until then, they only had Sunday mornings off and being a church goer, he had no day that he could sleep in and decompress.

Please keep them all in your prayers as the days have turned into months and it can become very difficult at times. We appreciate you all so very much ...

Please forgive me ...

2007-08-12T13:05:00.001-07:00

It has been a little more difficult lately to update you all as somewhat of a normalcy (doesn't seem possible) has set in in Ramadi. All the excitement of getting to know the ropes, getting his trailer all set up and getting used to his mission has somewhat subsided. Days now are one just like the other and in a war zone, that's a good thing....but it makes for not so exciting news for those if us at home.

Larry is so great about emailing me every day & we talk a couple times a week. That seems to be the highlight of our lives right now. We're not far from being 1/3 of the way through this deployment... time seems to pass quickly for us both unless you dwell on it; then it drags.

Thanks to you all who have been sending care packages and letters. This is truly the highlight of his day when he is called for mail. I can only imagine ... until later...

KBR Contractor ...

2007-07-31T12:46:00.000-07:00

Although I don't have much info ... Larry said he heard through the grapevine yesterday that the contractor is going to live. Apparently some bad guys "outside the wire" fired shots in the air which came down in the base. Very scary, no one knows when their days are done; Larry is living in a that reality daily. Please keep their safety and sanity in your prayers ...

Never made it ....

2007-07-30T06:18:00.000-07:00

You know how sometimes things just don't work out? Larry didn't get on the helicopter for whatever reason ... but I am always thankful because there was probably a reason he was left behind on this mission.

On a sad note, here is the latest from Camp Blue Diamond:

"one of the KBR (Kellogg Bron & Root) contractors was shot in the head not more than 50 yards from where we all work. I guess he was just standing in the convoy staging yard when a bullet hit him in the top of the head. They took him by MEDEVAC to Balad, but we don't know what his status is. It could have been anybody."

I don't know any more details as to whether it was an accident or insurgents. I'll ask Larry and fill everyone in. That certainly makes me realize the "relatively safe" is not that comforting. Until next time ...

Outside the wire again ...

2007-07-29T16:00:00.000-07:00

This mornings email stated that he's outside the wire again until Wednesday. Headed to the Int'l Zone ... maybe we'll get a rundown of what those days are like in the coming week ... thanks for your support. 3 months down and 9 to go ...

Weather: Hot and clear, mid-day temperature for the past week category IV 130 degree+

2007-07-28T08:01:00.000-07:00

Terri said the natives are restless and want more news so let us discuss my day today at FOB Blue Diamond (Forward Operating Base). First of all your day is determined upon whether or not you will be working “outside the wire” (all operational missions outside the security perimeter of the base) or staying “inside the wire”. Today, I am inside so I woke up at 0600, performed personal hygiene and headed to the DFAC (dinning facility) for breakfast; ¾ mile walk from where I sleep. There are two standing orders at Blue Diamond that are always in place; you can never be without a loaded weapon and you can only eat in the DFAC in a clean duty uniform. There are no civilians clothes allowed and no eating in any physical fitness uniform. If you are dirty or otherwise, someone must come in and get you a take-out meal.
Actually, we are quite lucky here at Blue Diamond because the DFAC is superior and even if you are off post for the day you will get at least two great meals per day (breakfast, noon meal, evening meal, and mid-watch meal). For example, the menu for lunch today was; short order (burgers, hot dogs, and pizza), main line (4-5 choices), sandwich bar, salad bar, pasta bar, stir fry, and desert bar (ice cream, cake, pie).

OK after breakfast, I “stand to” with my duty section at my duty station and since it is Saturday it is cleanup/maintenance day: sweeping, mopping, dusting, dumping, and general maintenance to be done. I like sweeping the best, especially outside. We have in my work area about 3000 square feet of concrete and my immediate commander is a Marine COL and he likes everything to be clean, even the dirt.

The rest of my day will be spent executing the orders of the day. Just like the corporate business world the military has email too, only x3. Here I have my regular .mil account, unclassified “official use only”, and secret classified. Any one who knows me also knows how much I like email, at home my favorite key is “delete”, however, that does not work so well for me here. As Terri knows, I do not like any carry over, nor do I want any old messages hanging around cluttering up my inbox ( it drives her nuts that I start each day with zero carryover and that I don’t have 1500 old messages in my inbox), but what else can I do. The rest of my “inside the wire day” consists of writing emails, reading emails, reading memos, reading memos, reading the newspaper, sweeping, cleaning weapons, standing guard mount, workout, and the ever present STRATEGY MEETINGS. Oh did I forget POWERPOINT, oh I am sorry. Now you see why everyone wants to go “outside the wire”.

The evening meal begins at 1800, and then around 1900 I retreat to my hideout and unwind for a few hours reading or watching DVDs. The mail only comes MWF and I get 4 hours off duty on Sunday am. That’s it…….pretty exciting!!!!! Next time I will cover an “outside the wire day” and that folks is where the rubber meets the road and the real money is earned. Out here…….Larry. P.S. Don’t you all just love Terri, I do; what a princess.

Let's not complain too much

2007-07-23T12:22:00.000-07:00

This morning I woke up to my favorite part of the day ... my morning email from Mr. Wonderful. Here's what he had to say,

"Good Morning Sweetheart: I hope everything is fine with you this fine day, just another Monday here but things are going well. We are without air conditioning this morning because ours quit and they came to get it to fix it (Office). They said it will be back in a few hours so we will be OK soon. We really have now way of knowing how hot it really gets around here because we have no temp. gauge. The ones in F’ don’t go high enough and we cannot find a C’ gauge above 50 (120’F) centigrade, we need one that is around 60+."

Funny how we take so much for granted, isn't it? When I woke up this morning it was amazingly warm and I had been extra warm all night ... after all, it was in the 90's yesterday and didn't cool off too much during the night, maybe 70. Needless to say I did not complain about how HOT it has been here in Tracy lately. We don't know what hot is.

In closing Larry said he had a little headache. I'd have a headache too if it were 120+ outside and we had no AC ... until later

Did you wonder where I was?

2007-07-21T23:33:00.000-07:00

Sorry for the lack of content this week. I had a very busy week and a Real Estate Conference in Colorado. However, Mr. Wonderful did call me late on Friday night. He was anxious to hear all about how things were going for me ... however there was a distinct sadness in his voice. Today is 3 months and unless you've lived it, time begins to crawl, homesickness sets in, and quite frankly you just get in a rut.

Things don't change much there in Ramadi and other than a random trip "outside the wire" I expect that days get mighty long and home seems so far away you can hardly remember it. When you think of Larry please pray for strength, perseverance and wisdom. He is a man on a mission but he is human just like the rest of us ... home is not home without him.

How many ways can I say it ???

2007-07-15T20:42:00.000-07:00

Thanks for your thoughts and continual prayers and support. Larry called this morning and we hadn't talked since I think last Monday. He was safely back to the forward operating base. I asked him how he and the COL traveled to which he nonchalantly replied that they ride in an armed caravan of 4 Hum V's. Again my thoughts were, "that's what you call relatively safe"?

They again met with the higher ups of the Iraqi police and army along with, I'll call them ambassadors for lack of knowing exactly who they were. All I know is that I was impressed. It sounded like a feast and lots of visiting. I am guessing that it is not all that fun but it sounded like an important task. They did a 2 hour foot patrol at the market again, kind of like one of America's farmers markets.

I am still amazed at his courage and mental stamina. He is so positive and encouraging to me every time he calls or writes. Me who is here in my safe American home in my safe American city, getting ready to go to the Giants vs Dodgers game which he and I LOVE to do (no comments please if you know what a bad year the Giants are having). And yet he is glad that life is going on here and so anxious to get back to that life himself.

Larry is a man of incredible integrity and faith. I am so proud to be his wife ... until later

Going outside the wire ...

2007-07-14T11:43:00.001-07:00

I learn something new everytime I hear from my incredible husband. Here was a quick email I woke up to this morning ...

Hey Dear........I am going outside the wire again today and I won't be back until Monday evening my time. I won't be able to call you on Sunday morning, but I will call you on Monday am your time. This was a last minute deal and I don't want the COL to go alone so I will go too. Don't worry as this is a pretty safe deal and should not be any problem. I will be out of touch for about 48-52 hours and I will contact you as soon as I get back. All my love and you do know how much I love you:) Me.

I think that outside the wire really means, "in harms way" without saying it. Since we hadn't updated you this week other than with photos I thought I'd request your prayers; again ... still :) Thank you for caring.

Finally ... photos from the front lines

2007-07-10T20:33:00.000-07:00

It is amazing to me that Larry has such a great outlook and faith in what he is in Iraq to do. As I looked through the photos, my favorite is "BLUE DIAMOND CHAPEL ... the battle belongs to the Lord". Indeed it does.

If you'd like to see all 67 photos drop me an email and I will forward a slide show to you.

Thanks for your continued prayers.

Some heartfelt thoughts from Larry ...

2007-07-01T19:19:00.000-07:00

One Soldier's thoughts from time spent with Lima Company, 3^rd BN, 7^th Marines at Joint Security Station Sabataj in the Sabataj neighborhood of downtown Ramadi. It breaks my heart to be at the tip of the spear with these brave young (18-25yrs) Marines and Soldiers and to see the amazing things they accomplish daily to improve the everyday life of the Iraqi people they come into contact with.

These young Americans are literally rebuilding the lives of these Iraqi people one city block at a time with care and compassion. These 200 Marines and Soldiers live in the neighborhood and in the same building with the Iraqi Police (IPs) and the Iraqi Army (IAs) without running water, showers, toilets, and without electricity for much of the time. Their food is convoyed in twice a day from another forward operating base nearby and you get to eat when you can. In addition, they provide all their own stand-alone security. Despite all of this hardship, they personally assist the local population to help themselves by producing and managing projects to improve the quality of life for this neighborhood.

In November of 2006, this was the one of, if not the, most dangerous cities in the world. Yet today the American military, and these young Americans, are supervising and helping the local people to clean-up the rubble, clean the streets, clear away garbage, clear out the sewer, bring in fresh water and rebuild the electric grid. Then the balance of the day is spent making sure local vendors do not overcharge locals for US-provided foodstuffs as well as locally produced gas, cooking fuel, heavy heating oil, building materials, and electricity.

They work job projects, visit the schools, play with the kids, shop in the Souk (local outside market), arrange sporting events, create and encourage civic organizations and 100’s of other life enriching tasks. Then they get up the next day with little sleep and do it all again.

However, like I said, it breaks my heart because the people in the US either do not know what these American service men and women are accomplishing, they don’t care what is going on, or they disregard it because it does not support their political agenda. It is sad because the very planks that built the American Democratic Party platform and those on which most liberals stand are fine as long as it happens on US soil, but liberals want no part of it in Iraq.

Why Not? Why not indeed, it is the standard by which liberals measure your “quality of life”, yet to embrace that same position for Iraq may cost them a presidential election. So many lives are affected and the future of so many depends upon political agenda. It almost seems un-American. At least be honest about it. Stop saying we need to get out of Iraq to save American lives. Ask those whose lives are on the line at Lima Company and see what they say.

One only needs to view Lima Company’s deeds to see the truth. I defy any American to spend a week with these young Americans, then stand up and say it is all for nothing. If it is for naught, then America also stands for nothing. These Americans of Lima Company can look into their hearts and know they have made a difference.

Sergeant Major Larry Johnson, US Army, Anbar

We really have no idea ....

2007-06-26T20:15:00.000-07:00

Larry has returned from his short mission to a nearby town. He was gone for 3 days. For 3 days he had no place to shower, wash his hands or anything that required water. I say this not for "poor" Larry as he has gone much longer in much worse conditions. I tell you this because he was in a town that has no running water and there is a battalion of 200 that are stationed there. They have to travel for a shower once a week.

Apparently they went on 3 foot patrols with the local Iraqi Army men and other American service people to see exactly how they are helping the community. He said it was quite frankly more than we can imagine. He has photos ... although I am starting to wonder when we'll see any of them :)

Again I am thankful that they are safely back to their forward operating base in Ramadi. Never think you have it bad because there is probably someone in much worse conditions than you.

I found this map and information online that depicts exactly where Ramadi is and a little about it:

Ramadi (Arabic: الرمادي; BGN: Ar Ramādī) is a city in central Iraq, about 100 kilometers (62 mi) west of Baghdad. It is the capital of Al Anbar province.

During World War I British forces under General Maude fought there in November 1917.

Ramadi is considered to be the southwest point of Iraq's Sunni Triangle. It has been a focal point of resistance to the U.S. occupation of Iraq. Because it hosts the main railway line into Syria, it has long been suspected by American commanders of being a staging area for insurgents.

Ramadi's population numbers around 400,000.

Another traveling mission ...

2007-06-24T09:41:00.000-07:00

an email this morning reported that Larry had left Ramadi. He will be returning on Wednesday night. Please pray for the safety of all the soldiers/civilians traveling together.

He was proud to report that he had the bathroom in his trailer up to his standards and is happy with it. Considering the circumstances it sounds like he has his humble abode just the way he wants it ... until next time.

What a way to start the weekend ...

2007-06-22T11:13:00.000-07:00

Larry called this morning. He hadn't called since Monday so I was long overdue :) He'll be traveling again in the next few days to a nearby town. He says, "don't worry about it is as safe as can be". WOW! Thanks honey, that's reassuring.

Sounds like he is doing very well. He is thinking about investing in a microwave. I guess they have them at the PX (store). If he does get one I'll let you all know so that we can send stuff that you can make in the micro.

I knew better than to send chocolate but I had to try ... his package of Hersey Bars was melted completely and a waste; oh well. I'll send more when it cools down. Until later ...

Today's a great day ...

2007-06-21T08:00:00.000-07:00

It's the first day of summer which is my favorite time of the year and ... it marks 2 months down and 10 to go before Larry comes home ... the only thing that would make this day more perfect would be Larry's arrival on American soil ... until then, stay tuned

When Mr. Johnson is happy; I'm happy ...

2007-06-20T06:21:00.000-07:00

he finally received all of the items that he had requested for his remodel of the trailer. Here's what he had to say:

"I got my curtains up last night and used all my other stuff
as well. Everything worked out great and my living area is
coming along fine. All the pictures are up and the two
posters too. Did you send any posters with scenery or
anything like that? Anyway everything worked well and I am
so happy with it. I ate tuna and crackers for dinner and
I will be happy when the soup arrives. Maybe some cereal
in those small containers like we used to buy for the boat,
Frosted Flakes or Kellogg Raisin Crunch.  So that is it
from here for this morning, I'll talk with you again soon.
All my love, Me:)"

Here's a man that is making the best of his situation.
By the time he leaves he can list the place for a few
hundred dollars :)  Until next time ...

Personal Greetings from Larry @ 14:47 local Ramadi

2007-06-17T03:44:00.003-07:00

I want to take the time today to wish all my family and friends "Happy Fathers Day". Please take the time to remember and or visit your father today and enjoy the moment. No where is it more evident than here in Iraq as to just how short life is and we do not want to miss any opportunity. I am personally doing well and time seems to be moving right along. I'll be back before anyone knows that I am gone. My love to all my family and my best wishes to all my friends. I will check in again soon, Command Sergeant Major Larry Johnson. II Marine Expeditionary Force-Forward, Ramadi, Al Anbar Province, Iraq

What exactly is Larry doing ...

2007-06-15T18:11:00.000-07:00

Finally we have some answers :) A letter I rec'd today gives some general info on the mission Larry is involved with.

He is attached to Provincial Reconstruction Team (PRT) Anbar which is part of the II Marine Expeditionary Force. The team is made up of 30 people, 3 military and 27 civilians. Their job is to build capacity and stability in the region to help the Iraqi people govern themselves. Since this is something they have no experience in, the team goes out into the local areas to teach them in a number of areas such as elections, government, electricity, oil, economics, business development, and rail road. Larrys actual job is a liaison between PRT and local Civil Affairs Group (CAG). He attends all security briefings and reports that back to PRT.

Most of the units there are 1/2 Marines and 1/2 Army working together; about 1000 in all. In addition there is a division of Iraqi Army. Apparently the security is pretty good although he says that situational awareness is imperative and you can never let your guard down. In closing he says that a picture is worth 1000 words and he will send some soon. That's long overdue ... wouldn't you agree?

So now we know ....

He's back ...

2007-06-14T13:27:00.000-07:00

Thankfully Larry called this morning and was back in Ramadi. He is looking forward to getting back into a routine.

There was a lot of setbacks in the travel from Baghdad but all that is important is that they are safe.

His first package has arrived. I sent it on May 31st and he received it sometime in the last week which means that it only took a week to 10 days ... not bad. He has 5 more coming with all his remodeling and decorating requests. That will be fun for him once they get there. Letters are taking a week which is great :) Hopefully we'll begin to get some photos from him to see what it is like in his world.

Until next time ...

On the move again ...

2007-06-11T09:59:00.000-07:00

at 10:30 last night (Sunday), Larry called for a very brief conversation. He'll be heading out of Baghdad the middle of his Tuesday night, going through Fallujah and arriving at FOB (forward operating base) which is his temporary home by Thursday.

Please pray for angels to escort their helicopter and all ground transportation ...

He knows who's he is ...

2007-06-09T12:24:00.000-07:00

Here's a man confident in his Father's arms. I got an email from Larry this morning and he is doing very well. Still in Baghdad. His exact words were, "Been to the gym and to the movie here everyday. It is like a vacation." That's a vacation I'm glad I'm not on :) But seriously, he is safe and where he is called to be and he fears not, for God is with him. That's a praise! Thank you Lord for all who are called and answer that call for our nations sake. Please keep them safe and free for harm. Until next time ...

Oh how I love that man ...

2007-06-07T20:14:00.000-07:00

had a nice conversation this evening with Larry. There he is in Iraq taking care of national business and he is worried about me and the real estate business in California. You know, when you are both Realtors that seems to be where conversations always go. And of course he had to ask about the Giants who aren't doing that good. Oh well, winning or not, it gives me something fun to do almost every day.

He is still in Baghdad at a Budget Conference. He's not quite sure why he is there but he is. They are learning how to help train all the Provinces in Iraq. It is he and five other soldiers.

He sounded great and of course it always lifts our spirits to get to talk to one another. He'll be leaving there Saturday night, stopping in Fallujah, and then back to Ramadi.

Anticipation is high while waiting for his packages of every household item he asked for. Soon he'll have his new digs all decorated and comfy for his temporary stay in the desert. I was so mad yesterday. I had mailed everything and then realized I had left out the curtain rod. Oh well, it's now on it's way too. He is one of the few men I know that loves his space to be just so. That's one of the many things I love about him. Until later ...

I'll sleep better now ...

2007-06-05T21:31:00.000-07:00

it's 9:30 PM and Larry just called. He is safely in Baghdad. He called from someone else's phone so only had a moment but that was all it took to make my day. Thank you to all of you who carried us in prayer through this day in prayer. For whatever reason ... it was one of those days. Until later ...

Please pray for safety ....

2007-06-05T06:19:00.000-07:00

as this evening (Iraq time which is our morning) Larry and his men travel back to the IZ (Int'l Zone) in Baghdad. They will be back on the 10th. All travel is by helicopter and no travel is very safe. The bad guys lay in wait for opportunities such as these...

It's not Big Valley Grace ...

2007-06-04T12:35:00.001-07:00

but according to Larry, in spite of the situation, he enjoyed the Chapel Service on Sunday. There were 3 singers leading worship, they sang 4 songs, had a scripture reading and then a visiting Chaplin gave the sermon. The fact that he was fed is all that matters ...

Larry's greetings from Ramadi

2007-06-04T06:33:00.000-07:00

It's 112' here today, spent all day looking for a Baskin Robins alas no such place in sight. I am still searching as the sun finally sets and it cools down to 95' Where's my sleeping bag, now it's too cold. Actually, things are going just fine and I want to thank all of you for your thoughts and prayers. Later.........

Pepto Bismol ....

2007-06-04T06:22:00.000-07:00

Apparently there is a lot of lower intestinal problems at the Forward Operating Base with the water and there is no Pepto Bismol. Larry has asked that if anyone wanted to help a lot of soldiers this is a real need. He'll take whatever comes over to the Dr.'s office. There are 1000 soldiers so this is probably quite a problem. I have no idea what a case of this would cost but I'll look into that today.

It's Sunday in Iraq ...

2007-06-02T21:26:00.000-07:00

That was a long 3 days since we'd talked. Larry seemed to be doing well. He was just getting ready for church at 10AM his time. I was so happy to hear that he is also attending a bible study on Thursday evenings. He said it is nothing like our small group but better than no fellowship.

He has been working with the local Army this past week. Also attended a Provincial Council Meeting, met with City and Government officials working on local economics and banking. He said it is very challenging since none of them speak English.

The work schedule is everyday except Sunday they get 1/2 day off. He will be going back to Baghdad on Tuesday for 3 days. Traveling is such a hassle as they travel in helicopters in short spurts. It takes 24 hours to get there and 24 hours to get back. For safety purposes it is what it is.

While we were on the phone I heard a bunch of sirens, I asked what was going on and suddenly he said he had to get down, he was hearing gun fire. Apparently there are places to duck under and behind everywhere on the bases for reasons such as this. That was a tad unnerving.

Thanks again for all of your prayers and support. We miss each other so much and there is nothing we can do but be strong and have faith that all will turn out the way WE want it.

Finally ... an address

2007-05-30T20:11:00.000-07:00

His exact words were, "I am doing swell and it's pretty safe here". He sounds so good and rested. They all had a good nights sleep last night for the first time in days. That will do wonders for your spirits.

He is in Ramadi which according to my technical calculations is about 80 miles west of Baghdad. The conditions seem to be quite pleasing. He and one other soldier are sharing a two man trailer. It has 2 bedrooms, a living area, and bathroom. This is quite an improvement from the last deployment where they had to walk 1/4 mile (in full battle gear) to the bathrooms that were shared by all. He says it's dirty but he is already remodeling.

Soon I will be receiving a list of household items that he'll need to make this his home for the next 11 months. If you know Larry, he likes a nice place to come home to so he'll have it all spiffed up in no time. He is shopping (at the PX's) for a frig, lamp, table and chair, and maybe a microwave. Apparently there is only beds, and old desk that is falling apart, and a locker that he is going to fasten to the wall so that it will stand alone.

The work conditions are great. A nice office with his own desk. He is hoping to have a computer soon but does not as of today. It is air conditioned which is nice on toasty days like today; 110-115 degrees.

As on most of the bases, the mess hall is good. He has no complaints about the food. He says you can have almost anything you could want. If things go as he thinks they will, he will be in this location for the duration of his deployment. That is always nice so that you don't have to pack and move around constantly like many of the soldiers do.

Until next time ... thank you for your continued prayers :) Larry sends his gratitude and love everyone we know.

He's finally there ...

2007-05-30T06:54:00.000-07:00

where ever "there" is. I woke up to the anticipation that maybe there would be an email and there it was :) Larry is at his final destination but where that it is, the message did not say. But he did say that he is fine, safe, and quite tired having only slept 6 hours in the last 48 hours. All the travel is by helicopter and during the middle of the night; between 12:30-5:00 AM when weather permits.

He tells me we'll talk soon and he'll give me more detail. So for now, thank God for safe travels.

It's been 6 weeks already so hopefully time will fly. Until next time ...

God is so good ...

2007-05-28T10:52:00.000-07:00

Larry just called ... we were only able to talk for a minute as he was about to head for Fallujah. He sounded so good. It was 9:00 PM Monday night, his time. He just wanted to make sure I wasn't worried about him :) The helicopters were so loud we could hardly hear one another.

God is good, He always knows the little things make His children happy. I will go through my day with a song in my heart.

Until later .....

Memorial Day ...

2007-05-28T08:27:00.001-07:00

Monday morning could not have come soon enough as I was expecting to get to talk to Larry. I woke up to the following email:

Sweetheart: Thank you, your words and thoughts they are very
comforting to me. Listen, it is Monday at 17:50 PM and I will
not be able to call you tonight. All our bags are packed and
at the airfield, we tried to leave last night but at 0300
they canceled the flight due to weather. We are making
another attempt to depart tonight. I did not want you to
worry and I will call as soon as possible,just to let you
know I am OK. Right now I am real good and looking forward to
getting to a final location after 5 weeks of being on the
move. I love you so much and look forward to hearing your
voice soon.



I am so thankful to have heard, but I was so looking forward to chatting.  It 
was going to be the highlight of my weekend.  Then I am reminded how
selfish my thoughts are and that he wants to call home as bad as I want
him to.  So I will get on with my day ... weekends are so long.

Yesterday David called twice.  The boys are so attentive and sure to stay
in touch daily as they know how much we all miss Larry.  I was feeling like my
posts were getting boring but all the boys have said that they always are
anxious to see what I've posted since they don't get to talk to Larry.  What
a blessing to have such incredible sons :)  God has given me such a gift
in all three of them.

Enjoy you Memorial Day dear ones.  Until next time ...

The sound of his voice ...

2007-05-26T10:07:00.000-07:00

is all it takes to give me the strength for another day (or 335) but who's counting. Larry called quite later last night but oh how welcome the call was. He sounded great as he has for a couple weeks now.

Apparently the weather isn't too bad yet ... 110 degrees yesterday. He very confidently said, "it won't last that long. By the end of September it will cool back down." He's very optimistic in my opinion.

Although they never know for sure, he thought they would be leaving for Fallujah this weekend. Of course he is anxious to get where ever it is that he is going so that he can begin his mission. He also promised to get photos to me as soon as he can. I know we'd all like more pictures but he hasn't quite grasped the sending process although we had an extensive training session the day he left :) He is going to mail me the card out of his camera; go figure.

Until next time ... celebrate Memorial Day for what it is :) Enjoy!

Soon to be on the move again ...

2007-05-23T09:03:00.000-07:00

Larry sounded good this morning. It was his Wednesday night and he'd had a full day. They have been attending different classes with a multitude of government groups such as procurement, capitol improvement, legal, etc.

Looks like the plan is to head out on Saturday sometime stopping first in Fallujah for a conference that should last a few days and then on to their destinations. He tells me that he will have an address for me to pass on once they are at their final destination. I do my best to keep him up on all the well wishes and prayers that I receive so that he knows that many are thinking and praying for him.

It seems like I have so much to talk about every time he calls but he says that is what makes him feel like he's still part of all that is going on at home. So I keep a list in between every call of the events that are worthy of our conversation :) It may be a few days until we update again as I am headed off to a class in Ft. Collins, CO for 2 days and may not get a chance to chat with him.

Until next time ...

Yahoo! What a great call ...

2007-05-21T19:54:00.000-07:00

great for me but not so great for you all as I didn't get much info.

Larry called tonight and sounded so good ... the little I heard him, because I did all the talking :) I had a list a mile long of things I was excited to tell him and ways that God is making himself known to me. He was so glad to hear all the news and of course thankful that God is filling the void for us both.

He did say that he felt much better, was well rested and has been able to work out almost everyday. But he didn't have time for much else as he had to rush off to work; whatever that is for him, I still have no details. After all, I really don't need any details do I? He is the one that has to know what to do and when. I just love the calls :) Until the next one ... many blessing!

Bittersweet is an understatement

2007-05-20T19:18:00.000-07:00

Sunday's are very long days. In anticipation of Larry's call tonight I kept a list of all the things I was very anxious to tell him. A lot happens in 48 hours if you track it.

At 7:15PM my time he called, which was 5:15AM on Monday for him. He had been up for 30 hours and only had a few hours to get some sleep before reporting at noon his time. He was exhausted ... just wanted me to know he had arrived safely and to make sure all was ok on the home front.

Thankfully he is safely in the Baghdad region but that is all that I know. As I post this I find it strange that as American's (I) take so much for granted. Anxious to tell Larry about church last night and the Giants games yesterday and today, among many other things about our sons, I am reminded that he is fighting for that freedom that I enjoy. While I am anxiously awaiting a call that I forget comes from a war zone, he is keeping an ever vigilant eye out for his own safety and that of his comrades.

Lord, protect my precious husband and all the soldiers that are protecting my freedoms. Give him something to look forward to, fill him with your ever-lasting love and strength. Be at his side when he feels like nothing is fun and encouraging and show him your presence in ways that he can only give you the glory for. In addition, give me the strength to withstand the disappointment when we have no time to chat. Fill me with your courage when I feel so alone and sad. Be the love that fills the void in our hearts during our separation. Amen ...

Baghdad bound ...

2007-05-18T23:22:00.000-07:00

I had a great evening visiting with my dear friend Bambi. She came for dinner and we proceeded to catch up for the next 5 hours ... girls sure can talk :)

Larry called this evening and they are headed for Baghdad on Saturday. They'll be at the American Embassy for a couple weeks. They will be getting acquainted with whomever they'll be assigned to on their missions.

He's been sleeping better (5-6 hours a night) and eating well. There is everything one could want as far as food. There is even Baskin Robbins in the mess hall. He says it's not like home cooked meals but it is just fine.

Hopefully I'll hear from him on Sunday sometime. You'll be the first to know.

Friday nights are the worst ...

2007-05-18T18:09:00.000-07:00

Why is it that Fridays are so different? I guess when you love each other the way we do, Fridays are special. We go out to dinner, stay up late, watch the Giants (yippee!), sleep in on Saturday, go to church, hang out in the backyard ... memories of those great times are what get us through the times that are not so great.

The dust was flying ....

2007-05-16T19:28:00.000-07:00

when Larry called this evening he warned me that our reception might not be to good as they were having a severe dust storm. It rained yesterday and was about 100 degrees. As hot as that seems, he said that he's glad they were able to get there in the spring before it gets hot.

You know the saying, "what a small world". Well yesterday Larry ran into a fellow by the name of Lee Gillette that he has served with in various capacities for many years. He got there a couple of days ago. Lee and his family live in Salida and attend Big Valley Grace where we attend in Modesto.

The group will be bussed to a nearby airfield today to get plates for their protective vests. After that just more classes, working out, and possibly a stop at the PX. They will be heading out of Kuwait either Saturday or Sunday. From there he will be in Baghdad for a week or two. At this point he thinks he'll then move into the Anbar Province of Ramadi. According to my calculations Ramadi is about 80 miles east of Baghdad.

As the soldiers travel into more dangerous places, please keep them in your prayers. Pray for their safety as well as their mental strength to handle whatever situation they must endure. More in a few days .....

I love those calls ...

2007-05-15T15:54:00.000-07:00

Larry called last night. He sounded so good. He said he is feeling better than he has in weeks. I think his body is finally on a schedule, eating well, sleeping well, etc.

Looks like they'll be flying out of Kuwait to their destination on Saturday, May 19th. Still do not know where he is going but as soon as I do; you'll know too :)

Thanks again for your love and constant support.

He's there ....

2007-05-13T20:24:00.000-07:00

What a great Mother's Day gift ... with much thankfulness that I report Larry is in Kuwait safely. He called this morning at 10:00 AM and had been there for about 10 hours. They arrived 24 hours after leaving Ft. Benning, GA. They stopped in Budapest for a 4 hour layover and then on to Kuwait.

Larry thinks that they will be in Kuwait for this week only and then on to his assignment. He will know this week what his mission is and where he is going. I'll keep you all posted as I hear.

Thank you so much for your prayers ... keep them coming :) May God bless you as you bless us.

Love to you all from both of us and Happy Mother's Day to all of you wonderful moms.

He's Waiting for the Plane

2007-05-11T18:54:00.000-07:00

Looks like it is finally happening. Larry has called several times today and they have turned in all their bags for inspection, been moved to the airfield and are waiting for a C5 (huge military plane) to move them into Kuwait from Ft. Benning, GA. They are actually to depart at 11:00 PM EST. He thinks that they will be 24-30 hours.

It has been a long week for him sitting with nothing to do, but he has made the best of it. There was a gym for regular workouts, he and some others have taken in a movie, had a few meals out and just filled their time the best they could. He promises to start sending photos as soon as he can.

I coached a real estate class in Chicago on Wednesday and was tempted to scoot on down to Ft. Benning but we would have had 12 hours together at best and it was only $700 (yikes) to take that detour so we decided against it :)

As soon as I have hear that he is in Kuwait safely I'll quickly update you all. Happy Mother's Day to all you awesome mother's. Make it a special day :)

Uncle Larry and little nephew Joseph at Christmas

2007-05-06T11:34:00.000-07:00

The Lovebirds .....

2007-05-06T11:33:00.000-07:00

Easter Sunday ... me and Aaron

2007-05-06T11:32:00.001-07:00

Easter Sunday on Lake Don Pedro - Mikie Larry and Aaron

2007-05-06T11:29:00.000-07:00

Gotta love the Army ...

2007-05-06T10:01:00.000-07:00

Mr. Wonderful just called; that's Larry if you didn't know it. I have been anxiously waiting for his call from Kuwait as I was under the impression he was on his way, but no; he's at Ft. Benning, GA.

Apparently some of the other soldiers that are on the same mission will not be able to meet up with Larry and his comrades until Friday, May 11th. So there he sits, ready to go but waiting on the Army.

Although Larry could get a pass and I am going to be in Chicago teaching on Wednesday of this week .... the tickets are $700+ for us to connect for 12 hours. That's not going to happen. So it looks like now he is scheduled to fly out next Friday, May 11 around noon. Keep them all in your prayers for safe travels and Godly relationships as these men begin to know one another rely upon one another for the coming year.