Learning About Military Life

Videographer Eric Breaux and I are waiting, still, for a flight from Kuwait into Iraq – where we can be processed to begin our adventure with the troops there. We’ve been visiting with soldiers who are also waiting to get to their final destinations. It seems the most popular getaway for soldiers, besides home, is Qatar. It’s relatively close, and soldiers who go there are allowed to leave the base and go to the beach for recreation. They also have the opportunity to have three beers a day – only three. Soldiers here are all very optimistic about what they’re doing. They feel as though they’re making progress – and they feel that they’re an important part of helping the people in Iraq rebuild their homes and lives. I was chatting with one soldier who’s just returning from a trip home to Indiana. He was at a restaurant there, and having dinner with his family. He told me a man came up to his table and called him a terrorist for the work he’s doing in Iraq. It’s one of many time, he says, that he’s been criticized for the Army career he’s chosen. He says it’s important for soldiers to know they’re getting support from home – but often, they come home to feel that their work isn’t appreciated. Still, he’s focused on his mission – and says he can’t wait to get back to Northern Iraq where he and his team are helping to rebuild schools and recreational centers for the Iraqi people. Overall – I’d say we’re learning a lot about military life.

 

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