Back from Nowhere

We have just returned to our camp in Kuwait following three days in the middle of nowhere, otherwise known at the Udairi Range -- a large training area for troops heading to Iraq and Afghanistan. There we had some of the most intense and realistic experiences so far, mostly convoy simulations, taught by contractors (former military) with experience in both Iraq and Afghanistan. Their knowledge is impressive, actually, amazing. We learned a tremendous amount.

We slept on a tent floor (no cots) with 50 of our closest friends, and ate MRE's (Meals Ready to Eat) for the entire time. There are more than 20 different menu options, and most have heaters built in. We dined on such delicacies as Pot Roast, Cheese Tortellini, and even Sloppy Joe's -- far cry from the K-rations consumed by our brothers in arms during WWII.

Just a few more days until Afghanistan!