Erik's day...

9-11-2008
We had our deployment ceremony today for the 1st SBCT 25th ID. It was nice, but quite long. Two generals, Sarah Palin the governor of Alaska, and the brigade commander all spoke. The ceremony took about 90 minutes. It was quite cold at first until the sun decided to come out and warm us. The secret service was present and protecting the governor. I looked for my friend Phil, but knew that he was likely not on this detail, but it sure would have been nice to see a familiar face and share a beer in Alaska with him. I’m sure this is a big difference for the governor as the reports of her prior to being named Senator McCain’s running mate had her driving herself around Alaska to decrease the cost of the state trooper protection detail. The day today being September 11th brings a lot of memories back. I still remember sitting in the radiology lecture that morning and hearing the news. Watching the images on the big screen in the lecture room and then preparing to help at the National Naval Medical Center with the overwhelming number of casualties from the Pentagon that never came. My children will never know that America prior to 9-11-2001. Coming onto post and having to show our IDs is normal now and just one of the restrictions put on America, but it was nice not having to wait in line and simply drive on post prior to that day. The new memorial at the Pentagon looked very nice and I would like to visit that some day.
The highlight of the day was seeing the kids on the webcam. Gordon was showing me his new I-Spy Truck and Bus book, Donna was dancing and singing a Hannah Montana song, and Wes showed me his new football jersey (he got #20 just like last year—Barry Sander’s number for those who don’t know). I wish I could be at Wes’ football practices and games, but I did get to see 1 video clip from his practice. I’m sure Wes isn’t too disappointed; however, as the amount of dad-coaching from Alaska is limited, but I still get in a few pointers. I’m going to miss most if not all of next year’s season as well because I think they are usually done by November. Melisa has started scanning some guitar music for me, which will be much appreciated if I can get my acoustic guitar sent over to Iraq in once piece. It will be nice to try and learn some songs for around the campfire.