I am Thankful

The Thanksgiving holiday is just about upon us. This is a very special time and reminds us to think about those things for which we are thankful. I am thankful for my wonderful wife, Rebecca, who has kept our family together especially during this deployment. I am thankful for my children, Thomas and Madigan, who give me such joy all the time. I am thankful for all my family and friends who have supported me during this deployment, it is very special to know there are such great people close to me. I am thankful I have had this opportunity to serve in the military and do my part to help the world and keep us safe and secure.

Work is as busy as ever, I can't seem to catch up, not that I had thoughts of ever catching up. I had some VIP tours getting out to facilities to see how things are going. I took a Chinook helicopter ride to Gardez, which is a city East of Kabul, for a meeting.It was great being able to see other parts of the country. It seems I am constantly writing evaluations and awards as people are leaving and others are coming. We are doing great work, although sometimes it is frustrating trying to get things done with the Afghans as they move at a slower pace than Americans. We also struggle with a society that has a culture of corruption and it is difficult to know who to trust. We press on and make change where we can.

On the homefront, Rebecca took the kids to Dallas for the holiday to spend time with family. My brothers and sister live there and Thomas and Madigan will get to see all their cousins. They have a fun filled holiday time planned, I only wish I could be there with them.
I wish you all a Happy Thanksgiving.

Peace to you all,

Pat