From Robert, now in Kandahar

Thank you Tom for your kind words.

Each time it gets harder and harder to leave home, especially now that little Jack is now part of the crew. I just got an email from Erica saying that today he started to focus on people and items. He is far happier, probably no longer bored. This will be the first of several things I will miss in the 7months I will be gone.

I arrived in time for the ramp ceremony. A sobering welcome to a real dangerous place. It is impressive to see every solder lining the tarmac and heart wrenching to hear the bagpipes playing their soft lament (and I'm not the biggest fan of the pipes)

After the ceremony I ran into a fellow MARS officer from my unit in Kingston on his way home. We sat over coffee and talked about life in Afghanistan. There is little doubt this will be a life changing experience.

I will keep hearth and home in my heart, keeping memories of loved ones and friends (some the same) always in my mind, to keep the shadows at bay.

Rob (Over the hills and far away)