Tuesday, October 19, 2010

The World is Getting Bigger

Just a few weeks ago I left the small outposts and positions of Marjah. I arrived at Camp Leatherneck, with street lights and busy roads and Pizza Hut. I felt overwhelmed by the new faces in the chow hall and the fact that you can't see all sides of the base at once.
I traveled to Kajaki, where there is a large dam, river and vegetation. I covered the construction work of Oregon Marines. Within two days I was back at Leatherneck. I traded the vastness of the base for a five day mission with more Oregon Marines who spend their days and nights in the cramped quarters of an armored vehicle. I must say it is the toughest living conditions by far, but I was able to see first hand the sacrifices Marines make in this desolate place.
These stories can be found at kval.com

Now I am making the slow journey back home with feelings of indifference. I can't say that I want to stay here, but the feeling of leaving is like walking out into the darkness without a light. I will have to find another job, another story and another life.