Day 173 - Send-off letter

June 22

Today was the big send-off for the troops. A representative from Senator Ensign's office came with a letter of support and well-wishes for the soldiers. It was a bitter sweet occasion. Dave addressed the troops with words of encouragement and handed out coins to each of them. Lunch boxes filled with sandwiches and chips were given out, and Dave and I went around the room and introduced ourselves to each of the soldiers and their families while they ate.

All too soon it was time for their departure. Final training would take place at Ft. Hood, Texas and Ft. Lee, Virginia. It was hard to see Dave get on the bus - knowing that he was one step closer to leaving for Afghanistan. But at the same time, I felt so proud of him. Each soldier looked to him for guidance and security. He was their commander!

Day 133 - Leaving Las Vegas

May 13

Leaving someone you love can be hard!

Dave makes one last call on his phone before giving it up.

The troops are just about ready to roll... it's 7:00 a.m. right on the button. Everything is always on time with the army. No exceptions!

Two buses, full of brave soldiers, leave for training in Northern California. Afghanistan... too soon.

Call it an adventure, a hardship, duty, passion, whatever....

I call it commitment to the cause of freedom! I call it love of country! I call it heroic!

Day 123 - Commander

May 3

He's a Colonel in the United States Army, He's a Commander of a Brigade, He's in his new office... busy busy, He's my hUBBy! It suits him real fine! And I love him!