Mike's Deployment Blog

Finishing up

2010-03-31T20:50:00.001-07:00

One of my last nights in Afghanistan. Just chilling, talking outside the coffee shop and we met some brits. One had this new grenade launcher so I grabbed a picture. Note it looks like there is a little gun on the front of this rifle. That is the grenade launcher. It is removable if you want to use it by itself. Some U.S. SWAT and other teams use them. Just thought it was cool.

Here is us getting on the plane out of the Stan. Just trying to give you some idea of how big it is. I was one of the last ones on. When I got in, 6 of us didn't have seats. They said they were going to have to leave us 6. I lost all control. I started looking all over for a seat. THere were plenty of seats (a lot of bags were on seats that just got put on the ground) However, for like 30 seconds I was very concerned. I made it out though, so no worries.
Here is me about to get on the plane. This picture doesn't do justice for how excited I am.

I am currently residing in Manas, Kyrgystan. I stopped here on the way in you may remember.

End of an Era

2010-03-30T21:34:00.000-07:00

I am writing this entry as a farewell to Afghanistan. It will likely be my last entry form this country. I wanted to thank my family and friends for all the support they have given me and my fellow servicemen and women, these past months. It truly has been an honor and a pleasure to serve my country and alongside my fellows. As much as I miss my family I will certainly miss this place somewhat. I could talk for hours on the problems and trouble here but the reality is that I have grown fond of some aspects of life in Afghanistan. I suppose there is something positive about the what we did here to feel that way.

One interesting thing I have seen here is how many people figure things out in their life when away from everything else. Certainly for some, being away from family and home and being around the troubles here distracts them from what is important. However, it is truly surprising how many individuals get their lives back in step with where they want it to be. Many are able to sift through the chaff and prioritize the important goals in their lives. A great man once said (I'm paraphrasing here) war makes some men hard and callous, while it makes others grateful for what they have. I am truly more grateful for my family and our freedoms being out here.

Lastly I wanted to thank you again. As Shakespeare wrote: "we few, we precious few" for those who read with me on this blog shall forever be my brothers. Thanks for sharing this wonderful experience with me and I hope to see many of you in the near future.

Mike

Osprey Trip

2010-03-25T22:27:00.000-07:00

The other day I finally got to ride in the osprey. We flew all over the area of operation. It was a long day but I got some cool pictures and had a great time. The best part is that apparently we were the first Osprey to do a 30 degree take off here. They just got cleared to do them and I happened to be on board. 30 degrees may not sound like much but it is powerful. Well, there is a strap around your waist, connected to a bolt in the floor so you can't fall out the back of the bird. However, I was not ready when they did their first 30 degree take off and was standing up. Well, when they took off I hit the floor. I didn't get hurt but it was pretty funny. I lay there unable to move, (because the force was so strong) just laughing.

Here is a picture of a waterway in the 'Stan. Didn't know they had that here, it is so bleak everywhere else. There were actual green areas (farms mostly) in parts we flew over. I was so surprised. This picture was taken looking out the back of the Osprey. We flew with the back open all day.

Me in front of the back of the Osprey. Note the crewmember putting gas in - like we just pulled into Chevron back home. While this system is slightly more complex, refueling here follows the same basic principles as filling up your car.

Me looking out the back in flight. You can't see the horizon but take my word for it we were up in the air. It was a great time to say the least.

Capt. Scotti had a birthday out here. We were able to talk a Gurkha into giving us his Kukhri knife. Scotti liked it (I think) and showed us his best pirate face. The Marine Corps, after all, has a strong naval tradition. For the party we blew up rubber gloves for balloons and strung bandages for streamers. It was what we had in the BAS left. I think everyone had a good time.

Fun in the 'Stan

2010-03-21T05:33:00.000-07:00

Tactical grater in the background, motivated Marines in the foreground. Money, all around. We went out to see the Marines "getting some" one day. I love being around them. They work so hard and take pride in what they do. One has to say "Semper Fidelis".

Our Marines building an extension to a runway. Note the birds in the background.

A picture is worth a thousand words. I wish I knew the 1000 words these guys were saying.

So in the British coffee shop, just shooting the breeze, Scotti looks up and says "I don't believe it, it's Ollie North". I didn't realize he was on a first name basis. We went up to the Colonel and asked for a picture. Lewis said "Sir does this get old, taking pictures with Marines?" The former embattled leader said "No, I love to be around heroes". No matter what anyone says about him he will be classy to me.

So the other day these 2 Lieutenants wanted to practice putting I.V.'s in each other. It is actually a good skill to know and since we are not so busy I had them over. Our resident expert Corpsman showed them good techniques and helped them through it. Both did a great job and got the needles into the vein in each of their first tries. Very impressive. Here are some other photos from the event. I left the extra bloody ones out for the faint of heart. No, nobody got a purple heart for this.

Mckillop, though bloody, still very proud (and rightly so) of his phlebotomic handiwork. Partridge did cringe at first but toughed it out in the end.

Partridge and Capt. Scotti (he came over to get one because he thought it would give him more energy for his workout) making funny faces. Note the writing on the wall. That is not a joke. During a heat casualty we use that to get an accurate temperature. It is also a good deterrent for Marines that come into the BAS with attitude.

Scotti and I living the I.V. dream.

Random Pics

2010-03-10T02:45:00.000-08:00

I was looking at pictures I didn't think I had posted already.

Below is a British friend who was going home. He gave me his Beret to wear for the picture and keep For-ev-er. He is a cool kid. Raised in the U.S., moved to England after a girl, became a nurse, a citizen and joined the English Army. Cool kid.

This picture is a throwback from those old pictures of men working on the Empire State Building. These hard-working Marines are about to finish work on a magnificant airstrip, months in the making.

Sweet laceration we saw the other day. The best part was that this guy was seen the next day in the gym. He was lifting a barbell with this hand, like we wanted the stitches to bust. Let's just say Dr. Tucker was less than kind when he saw him and expressed his displeasure succinctly.

Endings and Finalizations

2010-02-27T01:13:00.000-08:00

Hello friends. Yesterday, the 26th I received my FMF pin. We also took our last pictures as an ANA group.

Below, our ANA training group posing for one last picture. We will disband tomorrow. We have had a good time and worked hard. Hopefully, the ANA have learned something and will be prepared to defend their nation as we (NATO and ANA) work together in the future. I certainly learned a lot and had some great experiences. I am back row 2nd on the left.

At the risk of offending you all, I was trying to get this picture the first day I saw a TATA truck. It ended up taking me 5 plus months to get it.

Below is CDR Tucker, LCDR Chaplain Coffey and myself the day we received our FMF pins. Note the large shiny gold pins on our chests.

Me getting pinned by the C.O. In the past they used to punch you in the pin before they put the backs on them so they would puncture your skin and make you bleed. That unfortunately didn't happen. We are living in a softer time.

All the officers attended. It was quick but a proud day. The Marines are all flattered we got it. It took a lot of studying, we had to run Marine Corps standard physical fitness test, Hike 6 miles with a pack and generally carry ourselves in a Marine Corps manner.

Gratitude and Apology

2010-02-25T23:53:00.000-08:00

Let me start off by saying thank you to Mrs. Kawa's class for the wonderful Valentine's box. I loved the candy (obviously) and the valentines. All those artistic and creative, handmade valentines were a great pick me up that everyone here loved. I really appreciated receiving a package from a class who don't even know me, from thousands of miles away. I hope you kids continue to keep that same spirit of giving throughout your lives, it will serve you well. Thanks for all you do and a late Happy Valentines day to you all!

The incredible valentines and a picture of the class!

O.K. so I am sorry it has been so long since I blogged. I had IT problems and then got complacent. Below is the Hind. I have had pictures of it before, but not so close. This is over on the ANA base.

Me our interpreter and one of my corpsman. Just posing with the great Russian helo.

A few weeks ago I went down to a place called Dwyer to help set up an ANA camp for them to move in. Why is a Dr. doing this? Good question but it was a fun trip and I enjoyed mixing it up. This room is where we stayed. The focal point of the picture is the metal stove we used to burn wood. This was the only heater we had down there. Pretty fun. Pictured are two of my Marines and our interpreter.

So, I am sorry for the delay and hopefully will have more to show you soon.

Valentines Day and ANA

2010-01-29T23:59:00.000-08:00

So the ANA don't focus on safety as much as they focus on ease. The riders on this humvee were all laughing when they went over bumps and almost got thrown off. We weren't laughing. I was about to get some work.

Here is an ANA soldier hanging from a large hook. What is there to say?

So I got a package the other day (pictured below) and though it was for Valentines day I couldn't wait. I was having a bad day and needed some cheering up. Time is going slower than ever and things just haven't been that good.

Valentines Balloon I got in the care package below.

I certainly got teased about all the hearts on the box but everyone stopped when i told them it was from my kids. The hearts are actually from Shannon, she can get a little carried away when it comes to markers.

This is a great Blue Angel valentine from Andrew with engineering help from Grandpa Dave. A great valentine. I was flynig it all over my tent doing knife edged passes and tuck under breaks.

This is from Sydney. She expressed that it was her favorite and I would agree that it is wonderful. Note the attention to detail witht the heart ribbon so meticulously attached. Note the alternating heart pattern repeated with stickers matching the above ribbon. Priceless.

This is From Shannon. Though slightly ripped in transportation the feelings came through. Shannon loves this stuff.

The contents of the whole package. Not easily seen is a pink book in the bottom left filled with pictures of the kids and I and Shannon. It was the highlight of the package. Very uplifting and memorable.

The Most Fun

2010-01-20T01:10:00.000-08:00

I know I blogged yesterday but something magical happened. First, this is a picture from Kandahar Air Base. I didn't eat at Pizza Hut but the picture from Pizza Hut Kandahar is priceless. In my opinion, one thing that isn't different from the U.S. to Afghanistan, is that Pizza Hut is sub par pizza. Not good here or there. Personal opinion of course but in case you were wondering, the best pizza ever: 1. New York Pizza, can't pick one restaurant, all the pizza there is better than anywhere else 2. Dewey's Pizza STL-recommend southwestern or a Ham and Pineabble calzone also a salad 3. Chicago Deep Dish pizza-note that the pizza must be ordered and eaten in Chicago, other Deep dish Chicago styles from other parts of the country do not hold up 4. last, I would even eat Imo's before Pizza Hut. It is not the fourth best pizza, hardly. I am just trying to express how much I dislike the Hut.

Last night I was offered the opportunity to go to a HST event. This stands for Helo Support Team. Basically 2 large Ch-53's (see previous pictures and blogs about specific Marine Corps aircraft) each came and picked up two H2O containers to take to Marines at Forward Operating Bases. Each container is like a giant tire. Malleable when empty and round and tight like unto a dish when full of water. Each weighs about 4000 lbs. Seriously. What they did was put two water bags together on this large net-similar to the one used in Return of the Jedi when Luke, Han, Chewy and the droids were caught in that ewok net-trap set off by the big piece of meat hanging that Chewy went after-and then strap the containers together with a large belt with a metal clasp on it.

What I got to do was to wait next to the net/containers for the helicopter to come and hover over us about 15 feet and grab the hook, dangling from the helo with a grounding rod so another Marine could put the clasp of the net on to the hook and than when attached walk back slowly and let the helo take off, now carrying the 8000+ lb load. Needless to say it was awe-inspiring.

I had done mine, I held the grounding rod initially and this is the second helo coming to get the next package. Note the grounding rod in hand. Also note the proximity to the ground of the helo. It was still decending at this point (Above)

Here I just looked up to try and show you how close it was over my head. Maybe 10 feet above me. Seriously, when it came in initially, I thought it was going to land on us and the wind was blowing so hard it took my breath away. Note the hook extending from inside the bird. A nice function of this helo is that if the load becomes unstable or is dragging the helo down they can just release it from inside and drop the whole thing.

The load is now attached. Pen cannot write or word tell the strength of the rotorwash as this was taking off. I kid you not, a grown man 180 lbs or so (haven't checked lately and I have been eating more the past couple days so maybe 190) could not stand against the rotorwash without being unearthed from his foothold. There was a chain link fence about 20 feet away which I was flung into-like a WWF match-and was held there by the wash until the bird had flown far enough away the force dissipated. All in all it was tremendous fun and I only wish we could have done it during daylight so I could have gotten better pics and a video.

Old Guns, new friends

2010-01-19T00:30:00.000-08:00

It has been a long time coming but here is the newest installment of the blog. I have been to Kandahar and back since last time. We have met and been training our ANA counterparts. It has been fun and frustrating. Despite interpreters, the language barrier is still very difficult and makes things much harder. We will not shirk, however, and continue to be vigilant.

Below is a picture on an Army base in Kandahar. Something about cannons that makes you feel powerful.

Forget cannons, something about Russian antiair guns that make you feel powerful. Note the large calibur round. The "trigger" is pedals you step on because your hands are cranking the weapon up and down and left and right. I almost stepped on the pedals. I wish I had, it would have been fantastic.

Here I am with Sgt and an ANA NCO. Some call him Saddam others Mario (from Nintendo) but either way he is one tough Afghan. We saw him hitting another ANA soldier who was out of line and talking back. Why would anybody talk back to someone with a moustache like that? On a side note, I keep waiting for the day my facial hair will come in that thick.

On the range the other day I was offered lunch with the Major (to my left) and some other officers. It was delicious. The other Marines got the "runs" but thanks to years of hard eating-hot sauce, jalepenos, 10 day old leftovers, White Castle burgers, MRE's, leather, etc.-I was unfazed and felt very satisfied after.

A close up of the meal below. Half a loaf of Naan (bread), rice with either tumeric or saffron, a clementine and some beans with a small piece of beef. It was all very good and the flavors mild. Most Westerners would find this meal appetizing.

Part 2

2010-01-05T00:59:00.000-08:00

This country is an extravaganza of pictures. You might call it an Afghaniganza! Ha ha ha. I know you woke up this morning and thought I want to laugh so I will read Mike's blog. You are too kind. Anyway here are some others from Kaia airport, an ISAF or NATO base.

After the rain, the sun comes out. This picture needs no commentary.

Us picking up a couple Humvees. Note how tightly they fit into the C-130. It can be hard to get in to drive one out.

This helmet was a bit too big. I had to get a smaller size.

Me next to a German erected memorial for a couple of fallen soldoiers. It says how far Berlin is from that point.

This is for Sydney. Your greatest wishes have come true. You can now have a totally pink bathroom!!

Kabul Remnants Part 1

2010-01-03T23:28:00.000-08:00

Upon returning from Kabul I find that I have some interesting/cool/uncool? photos that I feel need to be shared. This information must get out. I have a grandmother, parents, friends and people I haven't even met before that are waiting with baited/bated (unsure of spelling-please someone write me back and let me know) breath for more Afghani info. and pictures that only I can give. I am somewhat worried that this perceived self importance will end when I get home leaving me with an empty void of previously filled self centeredness. Probably, Shannon will just keep me busy with preojects and my dad will help me realize I am not as important as I think I am. With that drawn out tangent over, here are the pics.

Me and a "Frenchy", as the Scarlet Pimpernel would say, representing. His other rifle in my hands, I try to give a "tough face". I guess he rolls around like Rambo with two rifles blazing. Not so cloak and dagger. Not very effective either, if you ask me, but Hollywood would love this guy.

They were building a new tent in Kabul. I just thought this picture looked cool. Almost glorifying the dirt and filth.

The only ATM on one of the bases. It is located in this very large, abandoned building, way at the back. We all thought it was ironic that the only ATM was in a very unsecure, out of the way place. Perfect to get stolen but that is Afghanistan for you.

One very crazy thing is that despite its otherwise deplorable conditions we found a very clean and delicious restaurant on base. Seriously, a waiter and everything. I could have had this Thai food in Oceanside. It was quite surreal. And the Pad Thai was to Thai for.

Gifts from Sweeden

2010-01-02T21:15:00.000-08:00

This is a formal proclaimation of gratitude to the Koch Family, Ryan and Laura. I received two boxes yesterday, filled with sweet confections from Scandinavia. They are currently living in Sweeden and were kind enough to send me some morale boosters. The Marines call this stuff fat pills but they eat it anyway. I call it delicious. Here are some of the treats below. I am especially looking forward to the chili flavored dark chocolate and the Citrus cookies.

The chocolate is thick and plentiful in these boxes.

And by the way, I enjoyed the Bilar. It reminded me of something I had eaten before. I don't remember when or where but it was good. Thanks for everything.

Some Random pics

2009-12-28T06:53:00.000-08:00

I will shortly be departing Kabul to go back to Leatherneck for a brief respite. Here are some pics that didn't make the blog previously but should have.

Below is gun enthusiast Capt. Smith. Look at the pure joy on his face while holding this Russian AK 47. Tears were shed.

Two ANA soldiers holding hands. The Afghan's idea of PDA for males is far different than Marines'.

Sgt loving his new Russian inspired hat. He went on all night talking in a Russian accent, we all just fell out. Hilarity, nothing less.

So this is called a Hind. This is a better picture than the one I showed previous. Rambo killed it with a tank I believe, I will have to consult with the historical documents.

Christmas Dessert Challenge

2009-12-27T10:53:00.000-08:00

Christmas is often a time for being together with family and friends. I am happy my family doesn't have to be here in Afghanistan but to help enjoy the time together some of the Marines and myself got to gether for a friendly dessert eating challenge. Here are some pics below. The rules were basically, every person got to pick a dessert and everyone had to finish it. If you couldn't, then you were eliminated. There was a time limit in the form of: the the last person had 5 minutes to finish the dessert in hand after the first to last person was done. Time wasn't an issue, intestinal fortitude was.

CPl's Roche and Bowling enjoying round 5-Ice Cream

Roche not enjoying round 4 - 2 Cookies

Sgt Cruzado thoroughly enjoying round 1 Pudding (2 big scoops)

Round 2. Chocolate Cake was rich and dense. The desserts never made me so full, it was the richness I just couldn't handle.

More round one. Things to be noted: 1. We all ate dinner first, except for Cpl Phillips (bottom right.) He tied for 7 desserts completed with Roche but due to not eating dinner he gets second place and an asterisk. He is not very happy about that either. 2. the rounds were Pudding, chocolate cake, Pumpkin pie, 2 Cookies, 2 scoops ice cream, orange jello with fruit (I finished sixth earning me third place overall. 8 of us participated) and round 7 was an ice cream bar. The Final two agreed to tie at seven, though I explained that Roche won. We all felt sick afterwards. Some threw up but all of us gained weight and gave our pancreases a terrible insult. Tis the season.

Christmas

2009-12-26T06:55:00.000-08:00

Here I am holding a British issue rifle. Note the magazine is posterior to the trigger. It is an odd design (at least by american standards) but I thought the folks at home would find it interesting. You are right, it has little to do with Christmas; unless I took it home, then somebody would be having a really good Christmas.

Me and Lt Bruce marvelling at the Christmas Decor in the dining facility. Amazing Ice Sculptures. The food was quite good that day.

Incredible trees of candy and frosting!

There are small contingencies of soldiers here at this base. Germans, Romanians, a few British and the French. The French were in fine spirits on Christmas eve. They went around the whole camp singing Christmas carols. Here a French soldier dressed up as Santa poses with me and a corporal. The French are allowed to drink out here and had certainly opened the wine before they went out carolling.

What I got for Christmas. Some DVD's I wanted, a CD and a Cardinals Tee. Thanks Mom, Dad, Jay, Yvonne, Shannon and Santa.

Training day

2009-12-23T23:57:00.000-08:00

O.k. so the other day we got trained on how to use the ANA weapons. While some of them will have our American rifles and sidearms, others will have the old Russian ones. Below are some pics. Also, some other random pics. These weapons were all nonfunctioning by the way.

Rocket propelled granade launchers.

Me holding a very light German rifle.

The A.K. 47. Awesome

The RPG launcher. Nuff said.

Afghani Bakery

2009-12-23T23:43:00.000-08:00

We went to an Afghani Bakery here on the ANA side of the base. It was kinda like a little field trip. It has certainly been the highlight of my whole deployment. Seriously. Is that a surprise to anybody; food being the focal point of my favorite Afghani adventure? I loaded these pictures backwards apparently. Anyway you might want to start from the bottom and move up.

The finished, delicious product.

Me and the Baker. He was a crazy guy. Very kind, especially since we had money to spend and gave him a gift of two jars of honey. It was in the Christmas spirit, but we didn't tell him.

A worker carrying wood for the fire. The oven, in the background. They stick the dough against the walls on the inside of the oven/kiln/whatever it is called.

A young worker, probably a son, preparing the dough. They put some cool design on it.

The largest mass of dough ever. The journey begins.

Afghanistan Graveyard

2009-12-22T06:07:00.000-08:00

The theme of this blog is death in Afghanistan. Not death in the macabre sense (except for the mouse) but one of the long struggles this country has had. Each day we wonder if we will just be another passing conquerer these people will wait out or if we will enact some real change.

We have a mouse problem. We are staying in warm little huts/cabins with snacks lying around. We might as well have put a sign on the door inviting the mice in. I got some traps, the sticky kind where the mice get stuck and can't escape, from the welcome office. We caught 4 mice in 36 hours. You might call us mouse killers, but don't tell my kids. It is sad, but they carry disease and are generally unsanitary, thus need to go.

We heard some shuffling in the middle of the night, so we turned on the tactical light and this is what we saw. I will not go into detail about how the mice leave their mortal coil.

Stuck Mouse

This is the Russian tank graveyard. Look how many tanks are stacked on each other in the distance. This was a day first exciting by seeing these old vehicles, then introspective as we wondered if in 15 years there will be a graveyard of Humvees and 7 ton trucks. Time will tell.

This one was particularly interesting. Think Indiana Jones and the Last crusade, when they are fighting the German tanks in the North African desert. Something bad happened to the cannon on this tank.

A Mike Crandall cameo next to a sweet (at one time) tank. Don't I look totally excited?! I am losing my mind at this moment!

This is the humorous death photo. Even the goats smoke in Afghanistan. If it's not war, people here are dying of smoking. Actually, I wonder if the average mortality age is even high enough for a large percentage of the people to grow old enough to die of lung cancer.

Old and Cold

2009-12-20T22:32:00.000-08:00

Per my last blog, here are some civillians just driving throught the training. Note the humvees in the background. All I can say is that this is a totally different experience out here.
Below is an old Russian tank. When they left Afghanistan, they left everything. There are remnants of them everywhere. In fact one of the other American bases here is an old Russian base. The buildings are old and quite odd looking. The history, here while rich, has been infiltrated by conquerers and dictators for hundreds of years. From Alexander the Great to Ghengis Khan to The Russians to the U.S.?

These last two views show an old Russian outpost. No, not thousand year old ruins. These walls were apparently built by the Russians during their time here in Afghanistan. Us marching in the foreground.

Beautiful mountain ranges and a better view of the outpost.

Kids and Kidds

2009-12-20T20:36:00.000-08:00

So we went to a range the other day to watch the Afghan National Army practice. It was quite an experience. Civillians and livestock all over the place. Much different to what I am used to.

Me behind the kids. I didn't want to get too close and scare them away. Just so my wife knows I am still kind and the long months here haven't made me too battle hard, I did give them all fruit roll ups for their hard work posing for these pictures.

Some Afghani kids just walked out of nowhere onto the range where we were practicing. That is wrong on so many levels but it is just the way it is here. What I find interesting, is that despite their deplorable conditions, they still look happy and oh so cute.

A friendly goat. This however, is not a petting zoo and I have no idea what kind of diseases these animals were carrying so I am only pretending to pet it. No actual petting happened.

Here I am trying to get a shot of me with the mountains in the background. You can see the fellow behind me wanted to get into the picture.

Kabul Continued

2009-12-18T05:51:00.000-08:00

So it turns out I had more time today than expected so I blogged twice. In your face!

This picture is actually from Bastion but I thought it was hilarious. I would never use the word fresh when talking about treated water that is not healthy to drink. Maybe I am alone in my humor.
This is a picture looking out the back of a C-130 with Marines and cargo inside. Kinda cool. It was actually a pretty easy ride.

Me and our travelling gang.

The main street of Kabul. I know the picture is not great, but you can get an idea how dirty and slummy it is. (Is slummy a word?) The people live is squalor and the children play in filth. It is truly sad. Many "shops" like this line the road we travelled on.

A ray of light after that sad sight-a French vehicle. We all want to drive it. I doubt we will have the chance.

Kabul

2009-12-17T23:49:00.000-08:00

This week I was transferred to Kabul to help train some other military types. These images are from the City and the base we are at.

This is a toilet. No seriously. You put your feet where those ridges are and squat to do your business. It is on the Afghani side of the base (The American side has regular toilets).

Just loved this picture.

The formidable and foreboding entrance of our new home. Doesn't it say welcome?

This is the Rhino. It is the uparmored-bus we drove in from the airport. It is indestructible, or so they say. It definitely was cool.

This is me in Kabul. It was cold, but has more vegetation and a richer colloquialism than Basiton. The scenery was more beautiful. It was still cold. You may be wondering, if it is so cold, why aren't you wearing a coat? Sorry mom, I put it on right after this pic.

New Job

2009-12-16T01:10:00.000-08:00

I am going to be moving to a different location for a while. I am not sure I will be able to keep blogging where I am at. I just want you all to know how much I appreciate what you do and that I am thinking about you. Thanks for all the kind gifts you have sent. I really appreciate them. Good luck where you are at and Semper Fi.

A View to a Hospital

2009-12-15T05:12:00.000-08:00

So, this is a picture of an ambulance probably used by the ANA (Afghan National Army). Kind of cool looking. Small but new.
This picture shows that four countries run the Hospital here. Estonia, Denmark, U.S.A. and England. The backdrop isn't beautiful but I thought the sight of the four flags was still somewhat regal. This is the view looking out of the hospital.

This view is the main hallway of the overflow hospital, a second, used if there is ever a mass casualty incident. Note that at every new entranceway, there are very long hallways going off each side. This tent-complex can hold a lot of people. Hopefully it never gets used.

Holiday Night Shift

2009-12-15T04:53:00.000-08:00

So, the other night all the Staff noncommissioned officers and Officers were asked to work on this runway we are building. We were out from about 1800-0100. While cold and exhausting, it was also a lot of fun. Working together and talking, joking and doing something to help the young guys who get to do this all throughout the day was great. Here are some O.K. pictures elucidating the event.

Notice all the cold weather gear. Slamming mat is a little more complicated than laying bricks. The pieces are heavy, don't always lay flat and they don't always fit together so nicely. However, we had a great time.

Chief pushing a port-o-john over with CDR Tucker still inside. Not really, but this really is my worst nightmare. When I have to use the port-o-john in the middle of the night, I fear this sight. If it ever happened, I might not recover.

Deza, Lozada and Alberto manning the front desk and admiring...

the totally awesome tree their LT acquired for them. Long story short. I was driving, saw one, pulled over and asked the British guys how much they wanted for it and they just gave it to me for free. Seriously. No theft or bartering took place. Maybe I just have a silver tongue? Now it is now dressed and most importantly, the BAS smells like pine. Delicious. Nothing reminds me of home as much as a Christmas tree.

Brown paperpackages tied up with string

2009-12-12T10:37:00.000-08:00

So I got all these packages from my parents the other day. It was nice because it was raining and was a nice surprise. Most of the stuff is for me to pass out to Marines and Sailors. Here is the largest gathering of Chupa Chups in asia. I haven't seen this many lollipops together since CandyCon.

These boxes all have wrapped gifts from my parents and my In-laws for me to give out on Christmas day.

After the first real rain of our deployment. Notice how the water pools. It was standing for three days in some places. The ground is like cement. You'd think thew land would drink it up after being so dry for so long, but no, it stands and creates a bigger mess than the dust ever did.

We have lift off

2009-12-09T00:26:00.000-08:00

So this is a video of a 53 taking off. Notice how the blades elevate right before takeoff. Hope you enjoy. Andrew, this is for you.

If the shoe fits

2009-12-06T23:45:00.000-08:00

WARNING!!! If you are my wife or my mother, as you continue reading this, remember that time heals all and that not everything lasts forever...

These are us enjoying the Orange brownies that were sent to us. I gave some to my friends and they were thoroughly impressed.
Smith, Partridge, Tony and Mike Crandall

The action shot of us eating. Can't you almost taste the orangy goodness? For recipes ask Shannon or my parents. Believe me you'll want to.

So, though I previously showed you some faux horseshoe pictures, now you are getting the full monty. It used to be that the horseshoe was an appropriate Marine Corps haircut. it followed the guidlines of maximum and minimum length, appropriate taper and shaven at the bottom. However, it was also the ugliest thing ever. So the Marine Corps identified it by name and outlawed it. However, Sailors don't usually like ugly haircuts so it has never been a problem for us. This differing set of rules creates a perfect storm, if you will, for me to show how "motivated" I am. As I am allowed to "sport" this egregious sculpting of hair and the Marines aren't, I am giving hope to all those who wish they could disfigure their bodies as proudly and purposefuly, as I have done.

As I mentioned in the intro, this in time will heal. Until then, Semper Fi!

2009-12-04T01:23:00.000-08:00

I would like to thank my family who spearheaded the sending of packages to me with reinforced contributions from the Heath's, Zimmermen, Rice's, Melanie and Elizabeth and of course the Shannon Crandall Bountiful contingency. The box was great. It had plenty of home cooked goods including orange brownies, cookies and other treats. Everybody wants to be my friend all of a sudden. It may be the cookies but it may also be that they want to gt their hands on that SLC 5 K tee shirt. The cookies, perhaps. That blue piece of Salt Lake athletic Americana, probably.

Nothing says Christmas like orange sticks.

Af-ghan-is-tan. You can say it and now see it thanks to that great map.

Chief and I at the entrance to Camp Leatherneck. Leatherneck is the slums, while we live in a gated community called Camp Bastion. It is cleaner, nicer, friendlier and less dusty (if that is possible). Leatherneck (LNK for short) has only one redeeming quality. Wi FI. But even that is slow.

The heavy equipment is not so impressive but take a look at the dust just floating in the air. Sitting there like the black plague. I am sure I will end up with silicosis one day.

Tactical Vehicles

2009-12-02T05:52:00.000-08:00

I know I have plenty of pictures of vehicles but recently I found a couple cool ones so I thought you could use some more. We use the word tactical when we mean something you can fight in or is equipped to work in a dangerous area. The term tactical may not be the right word for all of these vehicles.

This is my friend Kevan. He is my dad's favorite Marine. He is standing on a large vehicle which carries water and sprays the ground. Its name escapes me. It is used in earthmoving and construction, to water the ground to help compact it and prep it to build something on top of it. I would call this semi-tactical. It is correctly painted though the bulletproof glass is no longer attached.

These are Danish the left says Rambo, the middle chuck and the right John (as in John Rambo). We get a kick out of these every time we see them. They look tactical but something about American movie stars that make it seem less than safe.

Chief and HM1 Del. I don't know about this British vehicle. Looks great to go off roading and maybe hunting. I don't want to be in it when someone starts shooting though.

As close to any action as I will ever get.

Chief in the other British vehicle. Similar to the first but this one I would love to own much more. Kind of reminds me of something out of a movie.

2009-11-30T07:46:00.000-08:00

Hey ya'll. It rained semi seriously today and thought it would be a good time for a blog. First, the rain had that rain smell which was quite refreshing. It also foreshadowed some seriously muddy conditions in the futuere when we get some significant rain. Apparently the rainy season can be fairly extreme so we are preparing with sandbags around the tents. It is hoped the rain will not slow down the construction and work we are doing out here.

After it stopped raining for a while these beautiful cloud and light visions opened so I tried to get a good picture of them.

I love the light beaming through the clouds like fingers prying them apart to let us see heaven.

The panoramics I have taken are hit or miss. I think this one is more hit. The one that was more miss did not appear on the blog.

A line of 53's I took some time ago. I just can't get enough of pictures of aircraft. This must be why I joined the Navy.

2009-11-27T07:18:00.001-08:00

So, in honor of black Friday I took these pictures at our bazaar (misspelled? It is funny because there are only three tents where guys try to charge me 25 dollars for fake Oakley's or some very poorly made wood carving. You can talk them down but when you are just selling junk, what's the point?)
Hooka's anyone?

I think my hat is a desert fox. Growl. I might need a rabies shot.

This is a sweet Gurkha vehicle. Dangerous as it has an open cabin and all will likely die if they hit an IED. Not a comforting thought but the Brits do things a little differently. If this were your offroading vehicle however, watch out. I would totally buy this. Also note the Ma Deuce (50 Cal.) on top and I think a 240 at the front.

We diagnosed this as shingles. If treated in the first 72 hours likely will not have chronic pain related with illness. If you don't treat in 72 hours you are more likely to have worse sequelae. He is doing great, as he was treated early. That is your medical tip of the day-brought to you by Valtrex, not only for genital herpes but for herpes Zoster (shingles) as well.

More Dwyer Pics

2009-11-26T04:35:00.000-08:00

A Beautiful? sunset. The Flight line obscured by dust (not fog) is to the right.

I love that despite our Austere conditions some creature comforts, like hair cutting gowns, are always appropriate.

Two of our aircraft refuelers about to refuel those two CH 53's in the distance.

This is the remnants of a DASH. It is a very uparmored vehicle meant to protect Marines. In this case it did. It, however, did not survivie the IED blast. The vehicles protect those inside and that is most important. Though the cost of this war is astronomical, I will say that our government does a good job to protect its Marines and Sailors.

Happy Thanksgiving

2009-11-26T04:08:00.000-08:00

O.K. so the gift from my parents finally made it on the blog. Awesome.

Note the Cholula and the dried fruit. Just like they were probably eating in the garden of Eden.

Here is the championship team of the Camp Bastion Turkey Bowl. The MVP is holding the trophy. Note the ground and how rocky, slippery it is. I have the torn up hands to prove it too. However, no amount of pain can compensate for how great it was to beat the other Marines. Note the handsome looking sailor at the far left.

A.J. and Tony enjoying the thanksgiving festivities.

Me and Doc holding up our favorite parts. Him the pie, me the canned cranberry sauce. The food was cafeteria-ish. Not like I wanted, yet still good giving the conditions we find ourselves in. I am just glad we can still celebrate Thanksgiving. I love you all and hope you are having an equally happy day.

2009-11-23T21:50:00.000-08:00

So I was at a FOB last week (see last post) and got to get my "hands dirty" while I was there. We are building a runway extension with this heavy metal matting. Here I am with one of the other officers laying some mat. Most people were surprised to see the medical officer out there but I had time and love to get in and do what the Marines are doing. You have to lay the matting in the right geometric pattern to maximize the pieces available and build a sturdy runway up to specifications. While doing this, C-130's and Osprey were landing right next to us, not 50 feet away.

When the Osprey first landed on this runway it totally tore it up. We are jackhamering (this tool is called the beaver) a hole to lock the mat, already laid, into place. This is not easy labor. It took 15 minutes to drill this one hole 3 feet, afterwhich I was exhausted. These guys had like 64 to do. It was a long day. As an aside, I am rocking a totally cool double chin in this picture.

It is very dusty here. We played football and this was the result. We won, I scored a touchdown, what else is there to say? Oh, I did get a shower after. Also, all the Marines when they take a formal picture make this face I like to call the warface. It is like "one word out of you and I will skin you alive" with your eyes. I tried my best impression of that face. It is a work in progress.

A C-130 at night. This didn't turn out quite as well as I had hoped. Right after I took this I had to get on the plane so I couldn't attempt another. I did feel the picture still shows the coolness of the plane at night which is what I was trying to convey.

Lastly, I have to apologize to my parents. They sent me a great package but the pictures would not load so it didn't make the blog. All I ask is for forgiveness because it was a rockin gift. Well appreciated and received.

Random Pics

2009-11-21T22:28:00.000-08:00

So here are some random pics form the past few months I have been here. I have some more on my camera I need to upload, but the timing has just not been right. I just came back from a FOB (Forward Operating Base) and have some exciting pictures from that adventure. However, for now you will have to gnaw on these random pictures. In no specific order here they are.

This CH 53 is down and out. Look, you can see the propellars removed and placed on a makeshift rack to the right. I am not positive, but I think they cannibalize this helo for parts to keep the others up and running. This model, the CH 53 D, leaks hydraulic fluid everywhere. On a recent trip I got off this type of helo with drenched pants and blouse stained with hydraulic fluid. Not cool. The slow drip, drip, drip while you are immobile, squished inside of a full helicopter surrounded by gear, bags and other Marines/Sailors is uncomfortable at best.

Here is an old (circa September) picture of me. This one is for the kids. Like I said at the start, random.

A very happy Chief Stubbs. We caught him teaching the sailors. Hoo rah!.

Stein-O-Mite! Nuff Said.

This is the front desk, being manned by our corpsman. Note the happy looks on their faces. Isn't that the sight you want to walk into when you are sick or otherwise afflicted? It sure is for me.

Just to reemphasize, I do have some good pictures coming, and the next blog will be more substantial. Until then, Semper Fi.

Bad Day

2009-11-19T20:55:00.000-08:00

So, the other day some Marines were playing softball outside the BAS. All of a sudden a Marine walks in holding his hand tightly in his other. I could see blood coming out from under the one. I asked to see it and the pictures show what I saw. The ball apparently went into the razor wire that is located around the camp and he went in to grab it. When he pulled his hand out with the ball he wasn't as careful as he was when he went in to get it and this is what resulted. We took him to the main hospital to be seen by the surgeon to ensure that no tendons or nerves were involved.

Above is the view after taking the bandage we initially put on to control the bleeding.

After putting on a blood pressure cuff to control bleeding and then washing, to get a better look at how deep the lacerations went. What you can't see as well in this picture is that the lac. only went to the subcutaneous fat. No tendons or musculature involved. Surprisingly.

Same as above

The final product. I did not sew this up. After the Plastic surgeon ruled out any tendon damage he let the E.R. intern practice throwing mattresses, simple interrupteds and others. I was not happy with the end result. Who knew the British sent interns to Afghanitan for 3 month rotations. And you thought your intern ear was tough.

2009-11-15T21:00:00.001-08:00

This vehicle is like a tactical ambulance. If someone gets hurt they will go after them. What they have that a helo doesn't is that inside the DASC is a Jaws of life, a large saw and something called an exothermic torch which can cut through armor. Additionally there is oxygen and other first aid equipment.

Obviously, a huge beast of a truck.

Thanks Mom and Dad for the Walkers. It was a huge deal. I love these cookies, they are a Holiday favorite. Apparently so do all my Corpsman because they have been pounding them.

BAR B Q

2009-11-12T06:32:00.000-08:00

So this blog is to tell you about our Nov 11th celebration. The Marine Corps birthday is on the 10th but we had our shindig on the 11th because we are so far east we didn't want it before the rest of the Marine Corps. Anyway you will see a bunch of grills, food and some cooks. The Marine cooks or "Food Service" personnell are great. When I first met them I thought to myself "you joined the Marine Corps and they made you a cook, that sucks." But you know what, they absolutely love it. They have very high standards and whenever they cook, you know the food will be good. On multiple occassions they have complained and got things changed in chow halls that were not keeping good hygiene or high levels of excellence. It made me laugh at first but now I can say that I know they really love their job and they sure are good at it. As an aside, one of the best things about the Marines is that they are always happy. Sure not everybody every minute, but the Marines are always in a good mood and seemingly better as things get worse. It is inspiring and infectious. I love serving with Marines and am proud to be counted among them.

Some cooks flexing in preparation of the event ahead. Note, these are some of the fittest Marines we have.

After what I said above, is it any wonder a Marine Cook wouldn't want one of these! Grrrrr.

They're heating up!

Chicken

Steak. Mmmmmmm

2009-11-10T23:22:00.000-08:00

Recently, I have been asked to give my address. I believe this would be o.k. I can receive mail addressed to:
LT Mike Crandall
H and S Co./Medical
MWSS-372
UIC 42020
FPO AP 96427-2020

Good luck and thanks for everything.

2009-11-10T22:40:00.000-08:00

We are starting this blog off with some random pics I have not shown yet. This is A.J. who rooms with us. Just getting some cleaning on.

Note how all the dust in the air causes the snow flake like appearance of the picture. At leaast I think that is what is going on.

Here Mark is demonstrating Warrior 1 pose. Maybe it is Warrior 2 pose. We have been trying to get into Yoga for our flexibility and health. Also because it is totally manly.

Some wiffle ball a couple weeks ago. We totally broke the bat and balls by the end of the day.

So, Tuesday the 10th of November, is the Marine Corps Birthday-Semper Fidelis. The Marine Corps is 234 years old. Yes, older than the U.S.A. For the day we took a tour of the HiMARS. This stands for Highly Mobile _ Rocket System, or something like that. Basically, these very mobile rockets that you drive and shoot. They are ridiculously loud taking off and often wake us up in the middle of the night. It works like this. Our guys on the front lines need some pesky bad guys taken out. They call HiMARS, and can have warheads on foreheads in as little as 6 minutes. Much faster than an airstrike and depending on how many satellites are available for targeting, much more accurate. The best part, they are totally quiet coming in, until they explode and wreak havoc. So they took us on a tour and we got these photos. They drove out to their firing spot but did not fire. They lift those rockets to a 45 degree angle or so and then let them go. Awesome.

The back of the truck, note this one carries six rockets but 5 have been used to blow up bad guys.

The HiMARS after they rolled out to where they launch rockets.

This is the tube the rockets come out of. Note the similarity between the inner barrell of a rifle. Cool huh. I thought you'd like it.

Chief and I trying to get a good shot of the HiMars standing on Humvees.

So this last pic is of me, Chief Stubbs, Mark (Dr. Tucker) and Stein. Actually it's Stein-o-mite. Said like Dyn-o-mite and yelled. Whenever I see him I yell it, whether inside or out. He is a good kid. He once put in 2 I.V.'s in Marine's, at night, using only Chem lights. Pretty impressive.

The Osprey Has Landed

2009-11-06T02:15:00.000-08:00

O.K., so today I had a lot to blog and thankfully, the computers were open and moving at unusually high speeds. This morning I went down to the flight line to watch the Osprey's land (V-22 for you aircraft nerds). This is a montage of their landing here and some other sweet pictures. Semper Fidelis!!

The above picture is a Russian made helicopter. Notice the dual propellars on top. Pretty odd looking. However, for you nerds out there, the physics and engineering on this baby have got to be revving your engine.

V-22 coming in for a landing.

Landing in a row.

After landing they taxied right up to where we were standing.

Awesome huh? Some say that they are ugly. Not I. Like the scriptures say, the Lord looketh upon the heart. I looketh upon the specifications. This bird is fast, can take off and land with a relatively short runway or no runway at all and it can carry troops to the fight. What else is there to say. Besides, who doesn't like slate grey.

Happy Blog! This beautiful picture is of a package I received the other day from the Dustin and Kendra Wirig's! Obviously, it was absolutely fabulous. Movies, candy oatmeal etc. Kendra even put cookies in a bag with bubble wrap to ensure they would be structurally sound upon arrival. They were delicious and round. To the D.K. W.'s - thanks. To everyone out there I appreciate all your support for myself and more importantly my family. Mike

To anyone who has been to Disneyland and eaten a Monte Cristo, this collage is for you. This sandwhich is called a "ham and cheese dream". The English cooks name, but it certainly is fitting. It is ham and cheese between bread dipped in egg batter and fried. Something like french toast ham and cheese. Not quite a monte cristo, but we did our best to hook it up, as you can see below.

Chris and I enjoying the feast. At first the others didn't believe me that jam would be good on the sandwhich, but any of my fellow Monte Cristo afficianados can attest to the truthfulness of my statement. After some reluctantce, the others embarked on the gastronomical journey with me and were greatly ewarded. To those of you at home the recipe for real Monte Cristo's can be found on the Disney website, or contact my wife, Shannon for it.

2009-10-31T23:42:00.000-07:00

BEFORE YOU READ ON, I put a link to Commander Tuckers blog. It is under my blogs or something like that. You may find some different pics and/or commentary. Some more info for you who can't get enough.

So attached are some pics. First is Commander Tucker's promotion. It happened today, November 1st. He put on Commander (O-5). The picture is of all of the officers outside. I am kneeling with sunglasses on. I know, I look stupid as only one of two with them on. All I have to say is that I have sensitive eyes.

A beautiful sunset. Even in the desert God's creative beauty blooms.

Then there is a picture of the bazzar. Not much to see really unless you want to buy european cigarettes or Faoakley's.

2009-10-28T22:05:00.000-07:00

This is an unknown growth. It could be a pyogenic granuloma or maybe even a wart. I took the picture and have sent him to the hospital for removal. We are waiting the results. Cool huh?

Me with one of our mastersergeants and a young British soldier. He was going home in a couple days and came by to hang out, see how the Americans lived and see if we would barter with him. He was a cool kid and are glad to see him go home safely. This is my Marine face. When Marine officers have to take an official photo they always put this look on their face of silent rage. Like I am going to kill you if you look at ME funny. It is part of the Schtick and I am just practicing.

My friend Chris just returnig from an outlying area. Note that he is covered with dust and dirt from head to toe. I thought it poignant and a good representation of life outside the wire. Note I am not allowed outside the wire to the joy of my wife and family.

So, this is a picture of the bunkers we are supposed to run under if we are attacked. We have yet to be and the people we replaced were never attacked either. However, it is nice to know we have a safe place to garrisson if we ever came under fire. Beautiful huh, grey and brown just like everything else.

2009-10-25T08:21:00.000-07:00

So, we just want to say thanks to the Girl Scouts of Pass Christian Mississippi for the wonderful box of girl scout cookies. We loved them. We didn't expect to get girl scout cookies this year but we sure did. Thanks.

Next I recently bought a Queens Own Gurkha Logistics Regiment tee shirt. Awesome huh. I love it. I had been after one for a while and getting it was a real accomplishment. Today I was able to get my hands on a Gurkha Knife. Even more awesome! See link for information. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gurkha Basically they are these tough Nepalese soldiers who fight for the British. Meeting all sorts of seriously interesting people here in the barren wasteland known as Afghanistan.

2009-10-23T22:02:00.000-07:00

Shannon, I love you and just wanted to wish you a happy birthday. I hope you enjoy the presents and that your day is a magical one. I miss you and wanted you to know how much you mean to me. There is no one like you and I am grateful to God everyday, for convincing you to marry me. Happy Birthday!!

2009-10-20T02:07:00.000-07:00

O.K., I was uploading this blog 24 hours ago when we went into river city. That means that due to operational security the base shuts down the internet and phones. As it stands I haven't spoken to my family in a few days due to this. The point is that I uploaded these pictures without properly explaining them so here goes.

Outback Steakhouse, along with Carabbas Italian restaurant came to Afghanistan, brought their own chefs and waitresse, and served us a meal. Below you can see steak and cheesy potatoes from outback, ravioli from Carabbas and lettuce grown in Afghanistan. They also had some seafood choices which I did not partake in. It was very kind of them and a great break form the normal dinner cuisine. I would invite anyone reading to thank these establishments for their generosity.

Below you see some other officers excited about the Bloomin onion. This deep fried creation, is the culinary equivalent to the Cistine Chapel (probably totally misspelled) and Outback is its Michaelangelo. I was most excited and satisfied by this. It really made my month.

A sweet firetruck. This was parked in front of our camp. The symbolism of a firetruck in front of a flagpole in Afghanistan really struck me. Anyone who remembers 911 can understand.

O.K. the following pics are from my humble abode. Note the nice piece of 550 cord (green thin rope) being used to hang clothes and my towel. Also seen are my shelves which hold my clothes and my ruck sack (back pack) can be seen (look carefully it is camoflaged) on the ground. The next picture highlights my bed/cot with associated sleeping system-two sleeping bags and a goretex, jungle camoflaged, outer liner to keep me dry when I sleep outside in the rain. The reason I took this picture was that I bought a new pillow this week, full sized, and a blue pillow case. The whole thing cost me less than four dollars and it was some of the best money I have ever spent. Note the immense amount of dust on the ground and on my boots and running shoes.

Here are some of my corpsman. In the forefront you will see HM2 Garabedian, with HM2 Alberto in the background and a young Marine from Communications trying to fix our seriously slow computer.

HM2 Powell is enjoying a nap. He really is a hard worker and earned this nap. It was late at night and we were all called back to our places of work because of a drill. Since we couldn't leave, we rested where we could. I enjoyed a nice game of "Bones" A.K.A. dominoes before the drill was over and we all retired to bed. Actually, there are two corpsman on duty at the BAS 24 hours a day. They come and get me in the middle of the night when there is trouble.

Celebrity Superblog

2009-10-15T02:39:00.000-07:00

First off I have to say thanks to a small school in Florida who sent the BAS some very thoughtful boxes. 9 to be exact (2 in a black bag to the right). Dr. Tucker, the other Doctor here and my senior, posted our story on a website and this school sent us things like softballs, toiletries, letters, magazines, baby wipes and other things the corpsman need. It was very nice so thank you.

O.K., O.K. What you are about to see or read may look shocking but I want everyone to take a breath. I am an honest and Faithful Husband and father. Today some "celebrities" came by support the troops for about two hours and we all got pictures. This is usually not my thing but since the bachelorette came out, I thought Shannon would definitely want a picture so I obliged her (though she didn't ask). Additionally, we were required by our C.O. to go see them as they came a long way to support us. Some people (mainly single males who enjoy the show Nip/Tuck) were very excited, while others were not so. Celebrities bring out different emotions in all of us. Anyway, Some of the people you may recognize, some maybe not. Most Marines felt that the people were much more down to earth and fun than expected. Especially the dudes. They were very cool. And it was nice they came to see us.

One of my Corpsman as close as he has ever been to a girl. Canlas here is between Ms. Pappas (far right) of previous Bachelorette Fame, the Orbit Gum girl (grey tank top and no British Accent) and Kelly Carlson (far left from Nip/Tuck). I would not have known any of them by sight but we got their Bio's emailed to us before they arrived.

Me next to the Bachelorette and the orbit gum girl holding our squadrons flag. I told them that my wife really liked the bachelorette and that is why I needed a picture.

Me trying not to laugh. The dude on the far left was in Ally Mcbeal and Talladega nights. The dude on the right is on the show Friday night lights I am told. They were all really cool and professional. And they schmoozed with everyone this way. I was not alone in the receiving of affection. After pics they had to all leave. All in all it was a nice diversion.

I miss you all, especially you Shannon. I hope you all are well and will talk to you soon. Mike

O.k. so this is part two of a two part blog. This first picture highlights the largest pack of mentos I have ever seen and my poor attempt to mock their silly commercials. You know at the end they always freeze frame somebody holding out the mentos. What you missed just before this was that I just climbed through a limousine to get to my brother waiting on the other side so I could hand him some mentos before he met his date. Ah, the "Freshmaker".

These are some very cool, tactical, trench diggers. Note the bulletproof glass and armour around the cabin. This machine is digging a trench to hide the phone lines i that are leading to the BAS. We just got a second line, it is very exciting. I am always impressed by the armored construction equipment. It is also surprising what we have out here in the middle of nowhere. There is nothing around the base but on the base you can find most anything. Hope you are all well and keep in touch. Feel free to join the blog and post comments. Mike

2009-10-13T02:13:00.000-07:00

So, we have pictures of a broken nose, that has healed: note the elbow shaped curvature. This Marine will see an ENT surgeon when we return to Pendleton who shall help him become good as new. A large laceration after falling 8 feet to the ground. It will likely hide right next to the eyebrow and be slightly noticeable if at all.

Additionally you see the Eastern Block state of out exchange (shop) here. Like the Polish and other Soviet block countries there is often nothing to buy in the stores just empty shelves. Usually if something comes in it gets bought out quickly.

Lastly are pics of me and some other officers. Not much here going on.

Nights in Afghanistan

2009-10-05T22:06:00.000-07:00

Here is an Afghani sunset that was picturesque though the picture is not spectacular. I thought it was cool with the American Flag in front of it.

Here was a random British Helicopter that I think is the same or similar model to the Helo that flies the Pres. Of the U.S. around. It looks like it has an external fuel tank on one side of it. The British use American helos mostly, the Chinook CH 47 the same as the U.S. Army and the Apache also Army. They are good looking but certainly not as good as the Marine Helos, but there may be some bias there.

Lastly this was a modified Horseshoe. It is a really ugly yet highly motivated only the stoutest of hearted Marines would sport. It was, no lie, banned by the Marine Corps but since i am Navy I can get away with it. if you have more questions about the horseshoe I would google horseshoe haircuts and look at some pictures. They are ugly but motivated. Hope you are all well. Love Mike

Giving what I got

2009-10-03T22:08:00.000-07:00

The first pictures are some more throw backs of the kids. On the night represented here we had a delicious meal at the Wirigs of ribs (something I seriously miss over here). During the meal Sydney got off her chair and hid under the table, I think she grabbed a couple toes first but then was quiet. After 5 minutes we wondered what she was doing and lo and behold she had fallen asleep. Grandmas house can really wear you out. Andrew was coming into his own in terms of eating and obviously, since we were having ribs, he was enjoying the delicious sloppiness and devouring the food with urgency and vigor.

The next picture is of a formation we had one warm day. One of the really fun things about the military and Marines specifically are the traditions and the respect we have for them. Getting together to honor those who get promoted or other type events makes you remember the importance of what you do and gives you respect for all the hard work military members have done before and continue to do.

The last picture is looking out the back of the 53. It should have been on the last post but somehow I forgot it. Some people thing cadillacs are a smoothe ride, but nothing is smoother than the 53.

Flying to the Moon?

2009-10-01T16:44:00.000-07:00

I usually have only enough time to load a couple pics before I am forced to get off the computer here in AFG. Today, however, I got up at 0400 in the morning to get here when there was not much of a crowd so I was able to get a few more loaded than usual. I realize that means there is a lack of theme continuity in this blog so i apologize. I guess I will just have to work on that. Hope everyone is having fun and is safe. Best wishes from Afghanistan!

I am never sure how many pictures I can load in the time alloted so here are some pictures representing the best in frontier medicine!

So here are some sweet helo pics.

Here are some pictures from my recent overnight trip to an outlying base. You will notice a little expose' on the CH 53 D helicopter. It can lift the most weight in the Marines' arsenal. It can refuel in the air and as you can see is equipped with three 50 cal machine guns. So awesome. The last picture is of the "moon dust" in this outlying area. It gets everywhere. Makes quite a mess. Can you imagine driving in this?

Random Pics

2009-09-27T02:58:00.000-07:00

First is a picture of a sweet dust storm that raged through the camp. I say sweet because it was large but did not disturb anything I heard of. Sometimes those dust storms can knock down tents or make a serious mess. Anyways thought it was cool.

Second is a picture of Chief Stubbs midhaircut. He shaved it all off eventually but not before I snapped this effervescent photo. I am becoming proficient at getting photos with this rinky dink digital camera. Actually if you snap enough photos, some eventually look good. We try to keep ourselves occupied so we get haircuts usually 1-2 times weekly. Anyways, talk to you soon.

The comforts of home

2009-09-23T16:55:00.000-07:00

These are some pics from inside the BAS. This is the back where we habg out. The computers are very slow here. But as you can see, there is dust everywhere, it pewrvades everything but we are still smiling.

This section as you might have guessed is on the "Nice" bathrooms here. I say nice because the alternative is port o johns. And poop baking in the 110 degree weather all day is not nice. But form the outside these large metal boxes look very unassuming. Inside they are a treasure trove of hygiene. You will notice the showers with a push button. Like the faucet at a gas station you push them on and they stay on for about 8-10 seconds then automatically go off. The idea is to get wet, then lather with the water off and then push again to wash off. Low pressure, usually warm, wishing for showers from home.

The urinal like at an A's game is nice but takes up room that could be used for a bench to lay your stuff on while showering. The toilets look ok but the room is very small. My knees hit the walls when I sit down. Our larger marines can't fit in there, Chad is too tall to use these. It is a bit akward trying to sit down on one.

Look, I am not trying to complain but I think this will wear on me for 7 months. I have yet to find a permanent toilet here but there are other camps and I am on the look out.

O.k. this section was on really cool vehicles found on base. The first is the John Rambo truck. I believe the Danish own these. The one pictured above is one of four. One says John on it with the Rambo picture. Then there is the one shown above. There are also two trucks that look the same with the names Chuck and Norris on them both with Chuck Norris on them. It's good to think that the Danes are picking respectful American heroes to posterize their vehicles.

The other two vehicles are called the jingle trucks. Locals decorate their trucks for reasons beyond me. Some can be very ornate. If you notice they have metal chains hanging off the front and so they jingle when they drive around. Thus the name.

Hey, these pics didn't make it on the last blog. They are some Disneyland pics of us eating some bingets (probably misspelled) at the D.L. The kids were a bit younger, Andrew and I a bit Chubbier. I thought you are could use a couple throwback pics. I always do.

Old and new pics

2009-09-22T23:03:00.001-07:00

O.k., so the top vehicles are the ones we are allowed to drive in. The Toyota Hilux on the Far right is ours. The windows are broken in that they won't roll up or down (automatic) because the dust has gotten in them. There is dust and sand everywhere. The cars need to be taken into maintenance every week just to keep them running. It is great, truly a once in a lifetime experience.

The next pic is the BAS (Battallion Aid Station). This is where I work. In forthcoming blogs I will show you exclusive photos of the inside and of my tent and our opulent living conditions. But for now be happy to see the outside.

This is a sweet pic of an English vehicle. Note the door barely attached on the passenger side and the opnness of the whole vehicle. You can see it has seen better days and is falling apart. It is parked outside of medical so I had to let you all see.

2009-09-21T02:24:00.000-07:00

These pictures represent the finest in Camp Bastion dining. First you will notice my Sunday night meal after a couple bites. There is turkey, potatoes, carrots, stuffing and what was called pigs in a blanket. A sausage wrapped in bacon, delicious! It is located in the upper left side of the plate. A lot of Marines used to country food don't like eating here but it is truly fantastic. I appreciate how much effort these U.K. cooks go into the food. The picture below represents a Yorkshire pudding, yorkie for those in the know. I thought Jay would get a kick out of it.

The large vehicle above is an MRAP, supposedly impervious to IEDs. Note the large crane, retractable arm located on the front right side. It is for picking up, or moving IEDs that are found. The truth is that we are pretty safe on base but as soon as you leave the wire, things get very dangerous.

So, there is a small wooden shack next to the medical tent for cutting hair. It is very hot here so less hair I feel is better. I went to the shack and got a free streamlined cut. I totally love it. If you want to support Mike Crandall in Afghanistan perhaps adopting this haircut would be a way to show solidarity. Shannon, you and Sydney are exempt. But Shelby might make this look good.

Hey, here are pictures from the C-17 we flew on into afghanistan. It is very big inside, but as you can see with our flack jackets on and bags it was very cramped. There were a row of jump seats on each side of the jet, but I was not fortunate to get one of those. The ride was bumpy. When we landed everyone was grateful to be on the ground. When we saw how brown it was outside and everywhere, I think most people were suddenly less grateful.

Kyrgi wares

2009-09-16T15:08:00.000-07:00

Here are pictures of and from inside a traditional Kyrgistani tent, I think. The pictures are real but I am assuming the tent is traditional. I think that tourists and servicemen sometimes get taken advantage of by locals in buying stuff they think is real but could come from anywhere. Anyway, enough of my personal bias. This is the tent, the doors were very small about 3 feet high.

The next picture is of the inside of the tent and the ornate decorations on the ceiling. The hats are some of the goods they were selling. There were other things including air force shot glasses, barack obama painted on those little wooden dolls that when you open them there is a smaller yet identical doll inside that opens to reveal a smaller yet identical doll etc. ( I assume those are not traditional) But there were also these hats. They looked traditional but again who is to say.

Lastly, I took a picture of me in front of the pizza hut. Basically a large 18 wheeler trailer with a window on the side. I will try to get another.

Food, water and gyms: military essentials

2009-09-16T14:32:00.000-07:00

I had to show you this picture. Do you see how many water bottles there are in there? This is at the gym. I drank like five water bottles the first night and was up 3 times to use the bathroom. The second day I was at the gym for 4 hours playing basketball and volleyball and drank 4 just in those 4 hours. There are fridges like this all over the base. They are trying to keep us hydrated and I think its working. There are a lot of free things at this base. Water, food, all kinds including candy bars, gatorade. I will have to get a picture of the dining facility (DFAC). It has three lines for hot food, a panini maker open 24/7, cereals juices milks fresh fruit, cookies everything. It is truly amazing, but I digress, for some reason food is always on my mind.

Below are pictures of the gym, a giant tent with these plastic/synthetic floors made up of thousands 8 inch by 8 inch tiles. It has volleyball, basketball, a ton of weights and equipment and t.v.s showing espn, sports news all 12-24 hours old.

The last picture is of our weapons locked up in the giant tent we stay in. This picture is for the gun loving members of my family, I thought they would like it. You can see behind the weapons are our racks. Bunk beds very close together with old worn out mattresses. The beds go about 3 or 4 deep to the wall on either side of the room. Its crowded but it is nice to sleep on a mattress versus a cot.

another day another blister

2009-09-16T07:08:00.000-07:00

I have been trying to upload pictures but they are not going. Perhaps the blogger server is busuy or maybe our server is busy. Either way I will not be blogging today. I will upload the pics later. I am having fun here. Life is easy and I am enjoying it, I don't think it will get easier in Afghanistan. I was at the gym for four hours today. Basketball then volleyball. This has been a nice opportunity for all of us to get our circadian rhythms back. A lot of sleepy marines. Anyway I will continue working on the pics. Just wanted to have something in writing for you all to see. Love you all, Mike

Coolest hat ever

2009-09-15T05:13:00.001-07:00

You may not notice in the first picture but I am carrying a rifle, to 9mm pistols on my left and one 9mm on my right leg. With weapons we always need 100% accountability so some people had to leave for a while and so I had charge of their weapons. I am trying to make a scary/angry face but I am not so good at looking mean, though I am sure the kids could give exmples to the contrary.

The second picture is of this Kyrgistan official who greeted us off the plane in Kyrgistan. Is this not the coolest hat ever or what! He did not smile and showed how to look tough and mean while wearing a ridiculous looking hat and everyone watching almost cracking up with laughter. Somehow he pulled it off.

2009-09-15T04:49:00.000-07:00

Hi all. On Sunday the 13th I left for afghanistan. We were bused to March A.F. Base where we waited for 8 hours then flew to Bangor Maine. We were greeted warmly and waited for 2 hours after which we flew 6 hours to Leipzig Germany. Leipzig is home to many composers including Bach and Handel. I enjoyed some fine German weiners sent home a post card and rested. I thought it was funny that the Arizona iced tea was on sale for 5 bucks while the becks beer was available for 3. We are not allowed to and we did not drink beer but the irony remains. As one of the highest ranking officers on board I enjoyed first class seating and some o.k. food. We took off from germany and flew 6.5 hours to Kyrgistan. This former soviet block country is home to manas A.F. base. There were signs of the old soviet regime around. This one gentleman was there to meet us and he had the coolest hat ever so we had to take a picture, below. The base is fine, really good DFAC (dining facility - A.F./Army lingo) delicious food and lots of it. Free wifi and beds to sleep on. The A.F. does take care of its people. I am crazy tired as it is now the 15th of September and my circadian rhythms are totally messed up. I will try to get in touch with you but I want my kids to know I love them. Boss, Freckles, Shelby, I miss you. Good luck in school!

2009-04-15T16:19:00.000-07:00

. There were a bunch of horny toad's around and tons of exploded bombs, empty bullet casings and mangled metal. It was a cool place and I got to shoot some really big guns. This is why I went with the marines.

2009-04-15T16:10:00.000-07:00

Me right before the shoot. I am decked out like Rambo. Me shooting the 50 cal. affectionately known as the Ma deuce. The top pictures are of the inside of the hummer with the top closed to the turret. We went out with the M.P.'s to the shooting range. I got to shoot the semi automatic shotgun too.

2009-04-15T16:02:00.000-07:00

The top two images are all the rounds we were going to shoot at the range today. The pictures of the mangled bombs are exploded ordinance in and around the range. The whole area had these. All that we found were exploded but sometimes they aren't.

2009-04-10T12:21:00.000-07:00

Here I am saying hi to the kids. I love you guys. Below that are pictures of the crane removing the wing (propeller) prior to loading that November (N) on to a large vehicle, not pictured. This is fun stuff. Talk to you soon

2009-04-10T12:10:00.000-07:00

This is a Bell model Huey Yankee. Every time they come out with a new edition of Huey helicopter they go to the next letter in the alphabet. As you can see, they are on Y so there have been a number of models. You can see me and one of my corpsmen getting cozy with the Yankee. Notice the rocket pods. The machine guns located on either side of the helo were removed after the pilots landed so no meth heads or other unsavory individuals would remove them for their own purposes. These helicopters both happened to have engine problems at the same time and needed to land emergently. We were sent to bring them back. Also, you can see some uparmored humvees patolling. One with a 50 cal.

Yuma's Natural wonders

2009-04-10T12:02:00.000-07:00

I am putting these pictures on the blog for Sydney. This ia a local flower and the moth that comes from the caterpillar I have earlier on the blog.

2009-04-05T08:19:00.001-07:00

Me goofing around and saying hi to Sydney, Andrew, Shelby and Shannon. I love you guys! The C.O., my boss asked me when I am going to shave. This facial hair has little life left.

2009-04-05T08:18:00.001-07:00

In line at the chow hall. The Navy calls it a galley, but the Marines have their own verbage.

2009-04-05T08:16:00.001-07:00

Our medicine cabinet or pharmacy. We got some marines to make us this box, the meds had all been in big boxes originally.

2009-04-05T08:15:00.000-07:00

Typical meal every, and I am not exaggerating, meal breakfast and dinner comes with gravy.

Military Food

2009-04-05T08:07:00.000-07:00

This is a typical MRE (Meal Ready to Eat). As you can see, chicken with salsa comes with a little tobasco sauce, reese's pieces as well as mexican rice and cookies. These typically contain about 2000+ calories per MRE. I don't eat the whole thing. Plus we get two meals a day in the chow hall.

2009-04-02T10:16:00.000-07:00

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2009-04-02T09:54:00.000-07:00

Yuma Arizona

2009-04-02T09:41:00.000-07:00

I decided to start a blog for the kids. I do not intend to keep this up when I am home so if you like the minute details of Mike Crandall's life including new favorite songs, opinions about celebrities, and information on bodily habits you will be sorely disappointed. If you want to see pics of military vehicles and me out in the "field" then hold on to your cammies cause here we go.