The Surge Worked

Pics coming soon from the weekend. I was able to meet up with Alex at his mom's house. It was beyond nice to hang out and go to Dirt Cheap and easily forget there is a deployment soon before us.
It's been a year since "the surge" in Iraq, and Senators John McCain and Joe Lieberman wrote a commentary published in The Wall Street Journal last week. Excerpt below.

"As the surge should have taught us by now, troop numbers matter in Iraq. We should adjust those numbers based on conditions on the ground and the recommendations of our commanders in Iraq -- first and foremost, Gen. Petraeus, who above all others has proven that he knows how to steer this war to a successful outcome.
Every American should feel a debt of gratitude to Gen. Petraeus and the great American troops fighting under him for us. This gratitude is due not simply for the extraordinary progress they have accomplished in Iraq, but for what they have taught us about ourselves.
If the mismanagement of the Iraq war from 2003 to 2006 exposed our government's capacity for incompetence, Gen. Petraeus' leadership this past year, and the conduct of the troops under his command, have reminded us of our capacity for the wisdom, the courage and the leadership that has always rallied our nation to greatness.
As Americans, we have repeatedly done what others said was impossible. Gen. Petraeus and his troops are doing that again in Iraq today."

Must Be...

Christmas is officially over what with school starting back and all the stores putting out Valentines AND Easter- Lord, have mercy- but this has to be my favorite St. Nick ever.

Looking forward to hearing about the first day of inprocessing on base!

*Alex playing Santa during the holiday.

Who Doesn't Love a Bargain?

Alex begins in-processing tomorrow morning on base in Gulfport. Say a prayer for him if you think about it for good health, good friends, and favor with his commanders.
There is so much stuff to have for a deployment. Since Iraq is desert area, it's recommended that soldiers wear an Under-Armor like t-shirt and boxers because it wicks sweat away to keep you cool and dry. Well, maybe not "cool" cool in the desert but better than cotton. Actual Under-Armor is kinda expensive when you need a week's worth, and Alex is a bargain hunter. Well, as we made the Dirt Cheap rounds after Christmas while we were in Mississippi, we found an Under-Armor like shirt and boxers for $6.49 and $4.99 a piece. It was a Christmas miracle!
Our favorite sailor also needed running shoes for PT and sunglasses. Alex is a connoisseur of sunglasses and found a great pair of Costa del Mars. They have eye shields to help particularly with sand and wind. Perfect for the Middle East! Those didn't come from Dirt Cheap. Ha. BUT he found Nike running shoes on sale for $40. Pictures to come.
Enjoy the rest of the weekend!