COMING HOME: WARRIOR TRANSITION

Shipmates,
As I write, I'm finishing up what's called Warrior Transition here in Kuwait. More than anything, the programs gives you time to relax, reflect, and get the chance to talk to people about their experiences.

Just for information, here's what happens:


Day 1: Arrive at camp, and the first thing you get is a standing ovation from the staff at ECRC. The CO tells you that you did your part in this War On Terror, and you should be proud. Take in that standing ovation...we don't get them that often.

The first thing you actually do is drop off your issued gear and weapons. HINT TO OUTGOING EWOS - Take the time to get the carbon off every inch of your weapon. I prepped a bit before I came here, and it paid off. Get all your paperwork and stow it away. Relax, and even try the gym if you have the energy/time (it's HUGE).

Day 2: Group workshops. It's not as corny as you think. You share your experiences, and get to tell someone what could have been better. Pretty key to any type of "wrap-up" action. The rest of the day is yours. Pack/repack, laundry, ping-pong at the MWR...whatever your fancy is.

Day 3: Final preps and meet with the Doc to finish your Post Deployment Health Survey. Pick up your tent, and if you are on a rotator, stand by to go through customs.

When you are going through the last weeks of your IA...it really doesn't feel like it's coming to an end. Even when you are getting ready to head to the A/DACG, it just seems like you are going on another "business trip".

Here, you finally realize that it's over....and you're going home.

That all being said...to any agent of terror that may think that one IA going home is one less brain/hand in the C-IED fight...you're wrong. You are sadly mistaken.

We will continue to persevere. You shall fail, you shall fall.

SEMPER FORTIS,

BEAR