Another Week in the Books

Its been a little over a week since my last post, but you haven't missed much. The Iraqi unit that we're helping has been conducting a mission and the rest of the Soldiers are on "Mujaas" or leave in English. That being said there really hasn't been that much for us to do. We are still working on getting them electricity, but the Iraqis don't can't pay for it and the Americans think they shouldn't pay for the repairs even though we are the one's who took away their electricity. So it's basically a political battle and the only ones that are losing are the Iraqis that have to suffer in the 115 degree heat all day and still be expected to do their mission.

I did get to go to a camp in Baghdad where I ran into a bunch of guys that I deployed with last time. It was great to see them again, hopefully I get to go again soon before the go home. I saw a couple of Palaces from the outside, next time I'll try to get a tour set up so I can go inside and take some pictures. I went for a run one morning around one of the palaces that was set in the middle of a small lake. It actually made for a picturesque run, and I saw a guy fishing so I have to check on what I need so I can go fishing next time, too. Unfortunately, the palace has signs around it saying no photography, I'm not sure why that is, but I'll try to at least find a post card or something. Plus I'm sure I could get a picture and get away with it. I don't think the Special Forces are guarding the perimeter of the palace, waiting for some idiot "tourist" to snap a picture. I'll have to test my theory next time...

One last thing; I did get to eat an authentic Iraqi meal, we had lamb, and rice, and chicken, served with pita bread. It made me think of a cross between Greek and Mexican cuisine. Every thing was very good; there was one big difference, the don't use silverware or serving utensils. Everything was done by hand, which is normal for them. Till next time "Fee Iman Allah" (may God protect you)!