This past week has been a blur. It wasn’t until answering an email from Carmen that I realized that my subtlety had been perhaps too much so. I suppose I can use as an excuse the fact that long distance flying from Bagram to Landstuhl took a number of hours longer than planned (that stop in Kandahar which I still don’t get) or the fact that I am sleep deprived. It meant that I got up on Thurs – the 20th and didn’t get to bed till quite late on the 21st (and then you have to add in the time zones as well. I should admit that I am just a bit past the point in my life where staying up for 36-48 hours has any appeal.
But honestly, it is more likely that I did not come clean early on through sheer embarrassment at needing to come out of theater for something as stupid as a retirement physical. Some parts of it just could not be accomplished downrange. While I was at it it, I took care of a few other bits and pieces. But still, there are all those who are ill or injured really need care. My guilt kicks in at the thought that I might be depriving someone else of a needed appointment.
People are nice, extremely helpful. Tomorrow is the last of what I need to do (and last stop with the blood sucking lab), then hopefully I will be cleared to get back to work till the end of March. Obviously, I am not holding my breath about it being easy to Space-R out of here, since they want new orders (visit the movement branch) and an incredibly early show time.
more as soon as I have a clue
(with a 0505 S1 to Landstuhl from Heidelberg)
You’ve earned your seat, my friend… safe trip…
So you’re in Heidelberg and it’s 4 am?
That does make a bit more sense – I wondered what you were doing looking around airplanes….didn’t get that you were flying there.
Hope you have an uneventful and safe flight back.
March is your retirement date? Mazel Tov
Actually, end of April – on the retired Rolls as of 1 may. But March is just around the corner!
I didn’t realise that you had flown back ro Germany. That must have been great to be home, even for a few minutes! Sorry it had to be for something seemingly little – the physical – but the day or two away must have been great.
I can’t believe how the time is flying. With Feb being a wonderfully short month, we are getting near the end of your deployment.
Pls take great care and PLS stay safe!!!
How does it feel? What happens after March….Do you get a debriefing that also blocks unwanted memories?
I would advise you talking to the VA rep at Landstuhl while you are there.
Time to start that ball rolling.
My sympathies on the blur.