It's day four of this task force and we
have completed mission one of four. It was a stressful and difficult
mission to complete from a security standpoint. The rules of
convoying along these roadways now force us to not impede local
traffic, meaning we must allow vehicles at times to enter into our
convoy or cross through it when we are halted. This is a very
dangerous action we must allow, as any of these vehicles could be an
enemy vehicle loaded with explosives. There is not much we could do
to prevent disaster if the enemy wished to implement it.
It was
amazing to see all of the local population crowding around to watch
us work when we arrived at the work site. Stationary in our security
perimeter we could see it all, and did we witness some sights. First
things first, all the children just flocked to the Marines and were
in awe of the heavy equipment and machines we utilized. Ultimately,
they hang around and walk right up to the Marines because they are
used to receiving candy and such from us. They are somewhat
demanding in that they will walk right up and reach into your pockets
for anything they can get their hands on. In addition to the
children, it seems everyone is riding some sort of motorbike, and
they will fit up to three people on it at times. Another interesting
sight is a car load of local Afghans with the trunk open and more
people piled into the trunk. While sitting in our security perimeter
we were able to observe a funeral procession. It was quite an
experience and yet we had to maintain our focus and assume any of
these citizens could be enemy forces.
We are now back in camp and waiting for
our next mission. We have a three day gap between the first mission
and our next one. Down time sucks!! I don't know how to put it any
more professionally. When you are preparing for or executing a
mission time goes by incredibly fast. When all preparation is
complete and you have three days to wait time grinds to a halt.
There is no better proof than the fact that I've had time to write
all of this as well as find a tent which actually has internet
access.
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