Given the steady state operations, there just isn't much to write about. I'll try to catch everyone up on the latest happenings in the Troop and the Squadron...though Squadron information is a little sketchy since we're all spread out on different missions and I don't get many opportunities to speak to the other Troops.

Troop A has now taken over all ECP operations in the VBC with much needed help from troopers in HHT. Though it doesn't seem as glamorous as running patrols outside the wire, it has it's moments. Take the recent surprise visit by President Obama. It's always amazing to see Air Force One land, especially against the dust filled skies over Baghdad. And to see his convoy pass by is a pretty interesting sight, especially with the helicopter gunship support flying overhead. We've come to see the local government officials (the Iraqi President, Prime Minister, and various Vice Presidents) as a boring daily occurrence, so a new foreign head of state is a pleasant change in pace.

On a more somber note, please keep Specialist Christopher Loza in your thoughts and prayers. He is a member of my platoon and has become seriously ill...enough to be sent to Walter Reed for treatment. I'm told his wife and mother are there with him and he's stable.