(Back: Glen, Dan, Rustam, Gary, Sergey, Darryl, Front: Andy, Jay, Scott, Ray,Rocky)One Chapter Closes ~ Another Opens...
Here I sit in Kandahar, yet all the thoughts in my mind are where I just left. A place made famous by Alexander the Great's exploits, a dusty bowl laying in the shadows of the Hindu Kush. I sit in my new "digs," a tent, and the reality has already entered deep in me - The reality that I left one of the best collections of men who were unique in their skills and added those particular skills to make form where there was no function.
I knew long ago that my days at the camp were numbered, but I did not realize it would be so hard leaving - not the job, but you guys. Needless to say, I arrive here with some mixed emotions and feel like I left the real band of builders behind me. It was good to come to know each of you and learn of your strengths. It was amazing to me to see you all combine those strengths into a common purpose. It was fabulous that we faced diversity and challenge with such a united font. For me, I have to attribute these traits to my military time, as I am sure certain of you think.I was very fortunate to have you there- we shared common struggles, common beliefs, and common outlooks working for a common purpose in so many ways. Really, it was hard getting on that plane and seeing the work move under my feet when we took off. A lot of our sweat is on that place called Bagram. Our fingerprints are on the ground there and made permanent by solid pieces of some of the best concrete in the world.
When I look back on my years I will certainly look fondly at those months we had in a place where Alexander once tread. We shared openly, with honesty, integrity, and honor and humor - nothing can replace that. Nothing. I don't think it can be understood by anyone unless they have lived this way in such an austere environment.
Well, I guess that is it. Continue to do your best no matter the situation. I owe you my deepest thanks for supporting me as you did.
When I look back on my years I will certainly look fondly at those months we had in a place where Alexander once tread. We shared openly, with honesty, integrity, and honor and humor - nothing can replace that. Nothing. I don't think it can be understood by anyone unless they have lived this way in such an austere environment.
Well, I guess that is it. Continue to do your best no matter the situation. I owe you my deepest thanks for supporting me as you did.
Be safe and in the years to come. I hope you remember these days we had and can provide a good bit of warm and cheerful stories to your children and grandchildren when they ask, "What did you do in the Afghan Campaign, Daddy?"
Scott
Kandahar
02 SEP 09
