Happy Easter From Afghanistan

Happy Easter

Brian called this morning to wish us a Happy Easter. He sounded good and told us to wish everyone a Happy Easter as well. They received the equipment at their base they had been waiting for. For the first time in almost two months they were able to sleep on a cot and not on the ground and were able to take “showers” (warmed plastic bags of water) so it sounds like things are becoming a little more liveable (if that is what you call liveable). Thanks again to all who have sent packages, notes, etc.- they are really appreciated.

The surge of troops into Afghanistan continues. Operation Mushtarak (means “together” in Dari) in Marjah is moving forward to take out the opium production that is financing the Taliban. The Marines kicked ass there. While the initial firefights have quieted a bit- the environment is still dicey. The US announced last week we would be moving to Kandehar next to take on the Taliban at their center. I’m sure they’ll kick ass again.

But, the Afghanistan government remains shaky at best and there are now concerns with the stability of the government in Iraq. The military aspect of the effort is working very well. The Army and Marines have already made tremendous progress since the surge started but at a cost. The ability for Iraq and Afghanistan to govern themselves generally sucks and both countries have to have the ability to govern themselves for this thing to work.

Since it was Easter I was curious to know what type of church services are available to the troops at these Forward Operating Bases in the middle of nowhere. Brian’s group has a chaplain and they have services each Sunday. I’m glad to know the spiritual resources are available to our troops if they are needed.

Marjah, Afghanistan is the leading opium producer in the world. The opium finances the Taliban and provides a living for the farmers growing it. It’s ironic that they are using the irrigation ditches the United States dug for them in the 1960s to water the fields that are now producing crops to fund the enemy. Replacing the opium crops will be a key part of the Afghanistan strategy if it’s going to work.

Laura and I are doing well. We babysat with Ethan (I just can’t call him Spike right now) on Saturday and had a riot. I don’t think I’ve ever seen a more perfect baby (I’m not biased). I’ll post an Ethan update along with Brian's update next week.

Semper Fi