Friday, April 19, 2013

I moved into my permanent CHU (combat housing unit).


Here are some pics of the lovely place. Not very spacious but this is where being tiny comes in handy in the Army.


We have been here for about a couple weeks now and are getting into the rhythm of things. Currently the Soldiers are operating the equipment as part of the the Brigade COMMEX (communication exercise). The exercise is meant to ensure the equipment is functioning to standard. We are testing both the NIPR (non secure) and SIPR (secure, this is what we use 'call for fire' over) functionality. A high level description of what the Company does is create an entire network infrastructure for the Brigade users. We take a shot from a Satellite in space, route that into various network cases, and then run the cable for Internet, VOIP phones, and video teleconferencing operations.

As far as morale - as a whole we are doing well. Some of the Soldiers have already received some mail from home and I was lucky enough to get a box of homemade cookies! Several of us are also participating in a volleyball tournament next week...there are courts everywhere because there is sand everywhere. Haha. It is vital in a place like this to keep busy, focus, and to set goals. My PSG and I reiterate to the Soldiers often that though they are far from home, family, and friends - it is a perfect time to focus on themselves and the objectives they want to achieve. It is best to see this as an opportunity to come back better than when we left - physically, mentally, and emotionally stronger.

Below is the setting outside of my CHU and the sun set here at Camp Buehring, Kuwait.











Monday, April 8, 2013

Boots on ground

After about 24hours of travel, I have finally arrived at Camp Buehring, Kuwait. Been here a few days now and am still adjusting to the time change.  The best description is that it is a large and giant sandbox. Saw a few herds of camels roaming around the desert which was neat to see.  The sun rises here at about 0430 and the day heats up from there.  Today it feels like Texas in the summer so I am pretty used to that.  Can't even imagine what the Kuwait summer has in store for us.  Living conditions are not too bad, we are in a tent for the next week or so.  There is a Taco Bell and a Panda Oriental (knock off of Panda Express) and I'm pretty sure they both use camel meat but that's just my opinion. Haha. The chow hall is over half a mile away so that has been a pain to walk to with the sun blaring down and the sand blowing in your eyes.  The food isn't too bad but they aren't too clean here so the flies land all over the food - have to get into the right mindset to eat after seeing that haha. The MWR and USO are awesome!  They offer tons of TVs, video games, a music room, and even free phone calls.  I'll be taking some pictures to upload in the next few days. I know some of my friends at work were asking for my address and I typed that below. If you all do want to send anything as a morale booster it would be extremely appreciated!  Also, if anyone wants me to send them anything from here, just let me know!  



1LT Rachel Rinaldi 
C Co 449ASB
Camp Buehring, Kuwait
APO AE 09330