tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36334896996602896222024-03-13T18:22:39.550-05:00Chuck's National Guard experienceThis is my story of joining the Illinois National Guard.chuckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02320350460527036291noreply@blogger.comBlogger46125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3633489699660289622.post-54453516193808334722009-05-14T09:29:00.003-05:002009-05-14T09:32:28.750-05:00Well I'm all done. I did get my EIC award and promotion. I wanted it to be a suprise so that't why I told her I didnt get it. I'm glad its over and I'm happy to be home. Looking back I guess I did have some fun. It wansn't nearly as hard as I thought it would be. The things I thought would be the hardest were actually the easiest. I start training with my unit in June and it looks like I will be leaving for a couple more weeks since my summer at is in June instead of July like I was originally told. Thanks again to everyone who wrote and helped out Nel at one time or another.chuckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02320350460527036291noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3633489699660289622.post-63934523228390693222009-05-04T10:27:00.002-05:002009-05-04T10:34:31.443-05:004/30/09 The last letter!4/30/09<br />This is the last letter!! They have been super busy getting stuff cleaned, turned in, and ready to go. He was told today that his EIC award didn't go through, but wasn't given a reason why. Monday they turn all their equipment in. Tuesday is out processing. He's happy to turn in his M16 (but he really loved it since it's name was Nelly). He says Thanks to everyone for all the letters. He won't be able to write anyone back. They are back to work so that's the end of the letter. The Last Letter!! He's hoping for a call. I received this letter on 5/4/09 and still haven't got a phone call. It's been almost 3 and 1/2 weeks since I've got to talk to him and I've only gotten 3 letters in the last 2 and 1/2 weeks. At least I'll get to see him in 2 days!! I can't wait. The next post will probably be Chuck back, so just wanted to say that it's been fun but I'm glad it's done. Can't wait to have him home, even if it's just for a little while. Who knows when he'll have to leave again.<br />Love,<br />Nelchuckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02320350460527036291noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3633489699660289622.post-84372523629580326282009-05-04T10:17:00.002-05:002009-05-04T10:27:14.839-05:004/28/094/28/09<br />He did it. He has a paintball thing to do tomorrow and that's it. They got their golden cross saber pins. He passed all his tests so he should get the EIC award. It has to be approved. Chuck hasn't had a shower since last Wednesday. It was really hot at the FOB. They weren't able to sleep at night, but they could take cat naps during the day in between training. Did the 20k march back. Chuck made it!! He was at the back of the pack, but he at least finished it. They left the FOB at midnight and got back to the barracks at 0615. He's feeling pretty sore now. The next week is cleaning and turning everything in. Dinner time.chuckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02320350460527036291noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3633489699660289622.post-18814719887951707002009-04-29T10:47:00.002-05:002009-04-29T11:56:25.583-05:004/20/094/20/09<br />Went for a nice run today. Chuck and his new battle buddy got smoked this morning because a DS had been off for a while and wanted to make sure he could still do a good job smoking them. He thought it was funny that I forgot to turn the gas back on when me and Dad were starting my motorcycle. He says he won't give me a hard time about it but Dad did already so that's OK. They are getting ready to leave for the FOB so no more letters for a while. They eat field chow(small portions of whatever they send out) and MRE's for the next week so he isn't looking forward to that. Then they'll train for one day when they get back and then do all of their out-processing and turning in gear. He hopes that he'll get a phone call when they get back, but not for sure if it's gonna happen. Time for shower and bed. Fireguard tonight. It'll be at least a week of so until another letter.chuckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02320350460527036291noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3633489699660289622.post-14056133282991664382009-04-29T10:25:00.002-05:002009-04-29T10:44:31.352-05:004/18/09-4/19/094/18/09<br />Today has been a good day so far. He talked the DS into letting him take the PT test and he passed with a 266( had to have 230). The DS made sure that he knew if anything happened to his shoulder he was getting in trouble. He did 78 push-ups, ran the mile in 14:20, and 62 sit-ups. He is writing 2 essays that he has to turn in. Then sometime he will be going in front of the board. (some big high up guys, I guess). Then they got smoked. And then they went and got haircuts, and got smoked again. He has fireguard again tonight. He enjoyed getting the letter and card that everyone signed on Easter. Got smoked again. Time for shower and bed.<br /><br />4/19/09<br />He is talking a lot about our trip to Nashville. One of the guys he's friends with is from there so we may meet him for lunch one day. Then he told me the more I save on a hotel the more I have to spend on a coach purse at the outlet. Still in red phase. His shoulder is hurting him more today(couldn't be from the push-ups, could it). They didn't have any of the bad weather that they were getting down south. He is already trying to plan a get together for when he gets home. We'll let everyone know about that.chuckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02320350460527036291noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3633489699660289622.post-37186978186382038692009-04-29T10:07:00.002-05:002009-04-29T10:25:32.896-05:004/17/094/17/09<br />They are all back in red phase because of the candy thing and they are all really mad. That means 30 second showers, 2 minutes to eat, and all that good stuff from when they first started. They are also not getting their mail. He got to drive the tank and Humvee yesterday and he enjoyed that. It was just 4Th platoon so it was more chill (Chuck's words not mine). When they are in the barracks they have to sit in the hall, unless they are cleaning or sleeping. He went back to the clinic about his shoulder today. They put him on restrictions and gave him some ibuprofen and a muscle relaxer. The Dr. thinks it's a pulled muscle. The final PT test is tomorrow, but he's not sure if he can take it because of his restrictions. He passed the 3 tests he took the other day. Just one more left but that's when they are out at the FOB for the week. He was told that there is a minimum score of 270 on the PT test, but he hasn't heard that from the DS yet. He wanted everyone to know that he probably won't be able to get letters out for a while. He found out that he needs to get 230 to qualify for the EIC (excellence in Cavalry) award. He is the only one from his platoon that is qualified. He will have to go in front of the promotion board and write essays if he passes the PT test. They are still telling him that he can't take his PT test tomorrow so he's upset about that. The make-up date is the day after they come back from the FOB, march 20k back from the FOB. He's hoping he can do it tomorrow and not have to wait, since he felt bad after the 15k march. He finally got some mail tonight. Got some from me, mom, and grandma.chuckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02320350460527036291noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3633489699660289622.post-43159608126447264102009-04-29T09:58:00.002-05:002009-04-29T10:07:09.130-05:004/14/09-4/15/094/14/09<br />Chuck had fireguard last night. He had the last shift which meant that he started at 0040-0200 and never got to go back to sleep. Also the new troop is still getting yelled at so that's even less sleep. They are reviewing the Humvee's and Bradley's today and get to start driving them next week. 2ND and 3rd platoon made the DS's mad so they all got in trouble and had to get dress and go outside in formation at 2100,2200,2300,0000,0200. (9pm,10pm,11pm,12am,2am). Chuck just finished laundry and has his locker all straightened out. He was made temporary Platoon Leader because a lot of people have dentist appointments today. Took another test and passed with flying colors. There was a guy that was sneaking and buying candy and selling it to others. The DS's did a sting and caught him but now everyone is in trouble for it.<br /><br />4/15/09<br />Back to red phase thanks to the candy smuggler. Not allowed to make calls, write letters, or anything else. More getting into formation last night. 3 more tests to take today.chuckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02320350460527036291noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3633489699660289622.post-23977403180632279872009-04-19T20:49:00.001-05:002009-04-19T20:51:57.149-05:00Just NelI was checking the picture website and there is quite a few pictures of Chuck on there. Check the April 5Th, 10Th and 12Th dates. If you forgot the website it is <a href="http://www.dropshots.com/perezjc1">http://www.dropshots.com/perezjc1</a> There are some really good ones.<br />Nelchuckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02320350460527036291noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3633489699660289622.post-26243310994973774952009-04-19T20:33:00.002-05:002009-04-19T20:41:48.690-05:004/13/094/13/009<br />No PT today. Chuck hurt his shoulder a few weeks ago but didn't tell me. He is going to sick call today to have it checked out. They wanted to send him for an MRI, but he said no. He doesn't want to do anything that may make him stay longer. He just took some ibuprofen and that was it. At least it's documented so if he has problems later they should cover it. They played capture the flag which Chuck thought was pretty gay. They had to yell Bang, Bang to simulate shooting. Had a brat on a bun with mustard for dinner. He was excited about that. He said that it was fantabulous. Anyone going to graduation (May 7Th) Chuck is thinking about driving to Lovelace Cafe in Nashville for lunch Friday. It is about 2 1/2 hours from Fort Knox. Chuck is a little jealous after getting Brandon and Erica's letter. Talking about going to Cubs games and Bulls games and summerfest. Rack time so that's it tonight.chuckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02320350460527036291noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3633489699660289622.post-40645262855157552562009-04-19T20:10:00.002-05:002009-04-19T20:33:36.630-05:004/10/09-4/12/094/10/09<br />Busy day today. Pt this AM. They were told no phone calls the rest of training. Tonight was the best dinner Chuck's had since he got there. Ice cold chocolate milk, new rolls, meatloaf, potatoes, and beans with bacon. He went to the Good Friday service tonight and then when he got back found out he was fired from Platoon Leader because he went. He was pissed about that.<br /><br />4/11/09<br />No scheduled training today. Doing reviews on weapons systems. They didn't hand out mail last night because supposedly to many people went to church. A new Bravo troop just started so F troop was up all night listening to B troop get smoked. All the full time guys got their station assignments. One guy was told Hawaii before (tentatively) but is now going to Georgia. Just a little disappointing. They are actually getting phone calls today. Chuck waited till later because he knew I was at work when everyone else called. He's lucky they didn't take it away from him before he got to use it. I sent him a picture of our new TV in the bedroom. He said it looks nice and can't wait to use it. And he said Thanks Brandon for putting it up. I also sent him a picture of the new CT scanner at Belvidere, since he didn't get to come for the tour. He thinks it looks nice. They're still getting smoked because anytime they have free time the guys do things they're not supposed to. Then they wonder why they got in trouble. He is wanting to have a get-together once he gets home and settled. Another good dinner tonight. Same thing except corn instead of beans. He also asked for another apple pie so I'll be busy making that Tuesday before I leave. Can't wait. Graduation is almost here. He had sent me some flowers earlier in the week(thanks Mom) and forgot until I told him I liked them on the phone.<br /><br />4/12/09<br />Happy Easter! Still little sleep thanks to B troop getting yelled at. When to church today. Rumors were flying that they were going to get another pass, but Chuck doesn't believe it. He finished up his laundry. They found out that it really was a rumor and they aren't getting a pass. They did go out and do PT for 1 1/2 hours though. Chuck actually enjoyed this. He does his long trip 4-23 - 4-28 so he will be out in the field the whole time. Won't be able to write or receive letters, but he said keep them coming. He loves getting them. He wants everyone to stop writing letters on the 1st of May. He'll be done and gone by the time he'd actually receive them. Someone stole some of his girl scout cookies from the DS's office in the middle of the night and brought them to him. He ate half a box and gave them the rest and said not to steal anymore because it's to risky at this point. Who'd want to start all over again.chuckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02320350460527036291noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3633489699660289622.post-37172788484357109892009-04-19T20:03:00.002-05:002009-04-19T20:10:10.037-05:004/8/09-4/9/094/8/09<br />Chuck was very excited because he got to take a 9 1/2 minute shower the night before. They started off the morning by standing in formation for 1 1/2 hours. They brought a K9 in to search the barracks. Class on the automatic grenade launcher today. Done with classes for the day. Had a class on driving safety that sucked. They aren't getting any phone calls and the DS's aren't picking up their mail, so the guys are all mad.<br /><br />4/9/09<br />Chuck's battle buddy did something and the DS is mad at Chuck for it. He doesn't know what. Shot the grenade launcher today. He enjoyed that. It takes 4 hours for setting up and getting everyone through, but only 2 minutes worth of shooting. Nice day today, upper 60's, lower 70's. Went to church tonight.chuckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02320350460527036291noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3633489699660289622.post-80606914330171478122009-04-13T04:50:00.001-05:002009-04-13T04:58:26.984-05:004/6/09-4/7/094/6/09<br />Good day so far. No PT this am. Had a land navigation class early. It was raining and snowing. Now cleaning the barracks for inspections tomorrow. No phone calls today either. Chuck has to do laundry tonight. They mapped the march they did the other day and it was 17.8k instead of 15k. He's not looking forward to the 20k which will end up being more like 22k probably.<br /><br />4/7/09<br />Got a lot of mail today so he was excited about that. They have a class today and inspections. No PT again today. He's just waiting for his laundry to dry. Inspection done. Everything was OK. Chuck is ready to be done. It's getting closer.chuckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02320350460527036291noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3633489699660289622.post-70159312591860511142009-04-13T04:41:00.002-05:002009-04-13T04:50:55.180-05:004/3/09-4/5/094/3/09-4/4/09<br />Up early to head to the camp. It's set up with 2 gates, 2 towers, 10 bunkers and 13 tents. It's like what they would stay in when deployed. Chuck got all first time goes on his tests. Just a few left now, but they are the hardest ones. At night they have artillery simulators making noises. When this happens everyone has to dive to the ground, then run for cover. Since Chuck is PLT leader he then had to run around the entire camp to every bunker and take a head count. He said he did this about 15 times. They were up till 2am doing that and then woke up at 5am. Then they headed back. It was a 10 mile road march back. Next time they do this it's 5 nights, 6 days there and a 20k march back. He's hoping for a phone call but it didn't happen.<br /><br />4/5/09<br />Went to Church. Had coffee and cookies. Got to go to the PX for some shopping. No phone calls again. The DS's are treating them like they just started. People are still screwing up all the time. Did some light PT today. He has a blister from the road march and it hurts to walk. He got some blister pads from the PX.chuckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02320350460527036291noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3633489699660289622.post-13261271538467263792009-04-07T18:32:00.002-05:002009-04-07T18:46:14.893-05:004/1/09-4/2/094/1/09<br />Happy April Fools Day. Chuck started off the letter by telling me he's pregnant. At least he hasn't lost his sense of humor. They did a faster paced troop run today and he kept up just fine. Class on the Bradley's again today. They got moved back to there original chow hall today(it was damaged in the ice storm and had been closed). It's closer to the barracks and Chuck's troop gets to go first.He heard some music today from the DS's truck and has it in his head. A song from Flo-rida.We got to talk on the phone again tonight. Twice actually. We talked for about 10 minutes and then he called back for about 15 minutes. He got more letters today. One from Grandma Jean and one from Grandma Bev and then a few from me. Chuck is wondering about the Cubs and Icehogs, but I've kept him updated. He got weighed the other day and is 161. It's been about a year since he started trying to lose weight. He was about 200 when he started last April, and he was 174 I think when he left for basic.<br /><br />4/2/09<br />Busy day today. Demolitions class. Got to blow stuff up, which I know he's been waiting for. When they got back they had to get everything packed for their trip. Only 3 minutes for dinner again tonight. One platoon got put back in red phase. Chuck got assigned a new battle buddy today. He's a little bit of a trouble maker and the DS put him with Chuck so he can straighten him out(or so he told Chuck). Bible study tonight. Chuck had 2 slices of pizza, 2 Krisy Kreme doughnuts and some Tang. He said that it made up for not having time to eat dinner. It'll be a little bit before another letter since they're going on their trip for a few days and won't be able to write.chuckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02320350460527036291noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3633489699660289622.post-66930294465864970932009-04-07T18:22:00.002-05:002009-04-07T18:32:21.282-05:003/30/09-3/31/093/30/09<br />Chuck got some new paper for my letters because I didn't like the fringe stuff on the side. I kept cutting it off to save his letters and when I told him this he said he'd get some special stuff for me. They did a easy run this am, then had a radio class. After lunch they got smoked for about 45 minutes (people were sleeping again). Then they had to move their bays again. They are getting ready for their trip this week. They will march out there Friday, stay the night and march back Saturday.<br /><br />3/31/09<br />Not a good morning. Some guys didn't like the way Chuck was platoon leader and they tried to steal part of his gun and get him in trouble. Chuck was sleeping when they snuck in but he saw them do it and got them in trouble instead. Neither guy would admit to it when Chuck questioned them, so Chuck went to the DS. Of course then everyone got smoked and a lot of guys were pissed because they knew who did it. They finally came forward and they are in a lot of trouble. A LOT. Chuck said that he straightened them out and they won't be bothering him again. Today someone got a letter that had 13 pages of Chuck Norris jokes so they are reading those and laughing.chuckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02320350460527036291noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3633489699660289622.post-64709736624615852502009-04-07T18:00:00.002-05:002009-04-07T18:22:19.949-05:003/25/09--3/29/093/25/09<br />Rainy and nasty day. Ran a couple miles this morning. They are waiting to march to class. The had class on a missile that you fire from your shoulder and some long range scopes. They were both cool. Finance class sucked again. They got smoked afterwards. He got a letter from my mom and grandma that they sent while in KY with Chuck. He appreciated it. He wasn't supposed to have fireguard again, but got told he had to do it tonight.<br /><br />3/26/09<br />Easy PT this am. Had class on calling for artillery fire. He really liked this one. People were screwing around during class so they're going to get smoked later. Then he drew me a picture of me with my new coach purse that I got for my B-day to make me smile.<br /><br />3/27/09<br />They had classes on the Bradley fighting vehicle today. Chuck was made platoon leader again. If you are platoon leader you don't have to do fireguard which is a plus, but you are always the last in line to eat so that evens it out. He said this has been the best week so far. Good PT, good classes. He just doesn't like the smoking because people are still screwing up. He also said today that my dad has some of the worst handwriting he has ever seen. But he still appreciated the letter, though. C-troop had family weekend this weekend. Chuck said he wished it was them again, but C-troop will be wishing they were F-troop when they graduate in 6 weeks. Some guys got caught with food in their lockers and got in a lot of trouble. Some are losing pay over it.<br /><br />3/28/09<br />Troop run this am. Had a good day. Good classes. They had a tornado warning tonight and all had to go in the halls. Did more PT after dinner and then Chuck ran 2 miles. That's a total of 4 miles for the day. Studying for a few more tests they'll have to take.<br /><br />3/29/09<br />Got to go to the PX today for some much needed supplies. We got to talk on the phone tonight so that was great. Chuck got a free hour to call and go to the PX so we talked for almost 30 minutes and then he went shopping (and got a candy bar). After mass today they were supposed to have bible study but instead someone was there to do a financial class. How exciting. This one was a little more about investing so Chuck got more out of it.chuckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02320350460527036291noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3633489699660289622.post-69509372041283674302009-04-07T17:47:00.001-05:002009-04-07T18:00:38.585-05:003/22/09-3/24/093/22/09<br />Chuck said that one guys from 2ND platoon never came back tonight, after his family pass. A few guys from Chuck's platoon didn't shave. He said the smoking wasn't to bad, though. Chuck went for a run later that night with a guy from his platoon. He didn't eat much at dinner chow since he was still so full from the weekend. Chuck said that everyone that proposed over the weekend got told yes, but he still thinks they're suckers. He's happy because now he has songs in his head (not cadences).<br /><br />3/23/09<br />They went for a troop run this am then did PT. Then had classes and then lunch. Another class after lunch. They are waiting around for the next thing. Everyone else is sleeping and if they get caught they are in big trouble. They had a finance class tonight and also will have it the rest of the week. Chuck doesn't like it because it's many for the full time guys. Someone got in trouble and they only had 3 minutes to eat dinner. Fireguard tonight. Longer shifts now, but less days so they'll see how that goes.<br /><br />3/24/09<br />Early PT today. Now they are waiting for class instructions. They had a radio communications equipment class. Chuck enjoyed that. Now they are going to a Humvee class. It's a nice day out today. Humvee class was good. Learned how to do the initial pre-check and maintenance. More PT before dinner. They are doing a long run in the AM. Waiting for tonights finance class. Done with finance class and got another smoking.chuckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02320350460527036291noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3633489699660289622.post-71668179648636515562009-03-23T15:24:00.002-05:002009-03-23T15:35:09.522-05:00Family Day and Weekend Pass3/19/09-3/22/09<br />I left 3/19/09 for Family Day. It's kind of a boring drive to KY. I was on only 3 roads the whole way there. The family day ceremony started at 1000 on Friday 3/20/09. All of the soldiers were sitting in the front of the theater. There was a little skit about getting up in the morning and how they do PT and then we watched them march to their barracks. After the finally released them I got to sign Chuck out for the weekend. It was a tearful reunion on my part. I think that's about the happiest I've been in a long time. Chuck had lots of plans for the weekend. Eating, sleeping, eating, sleeping and eating. We went to Applebee's for lunch, pizza for dinner, with apple pie and ice cream for dessert. Shoney's buffet for breakfast, fried chicken for lunch, Chinese for dinner with apple pie and ice cream and then sonic shakes and ice cream before bed. Then waffles for breakfast and Red Lobster for lunch. We relaxed in a park listening to music, till I had to get him back on Sunday. And of course it was a tearful goodbye (on both parts this time). 6 more weeks till a can go to KY and bring him home with me. Can't wait for that. I'm counting down the days again (45). The girls (dogs) weren't sure what was going on when I got home today. They kept smelling me and then running outside to see where I had him hiding. Well, not to much longer and they'll get to see him. Graduation is May 7th, so I'll head down on the 6th. I'll keep everyone posted. Not sure when I'll get my next letter or phone call.<br />Nelchuckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02320350460527036291noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3633489699660289622.post-3094859194767555392009-03-23T13:41:00.002-05:002009-03-23T15:24:10.230-05:003/4/09-3/15/09Sorry, it's been a while since I've posted. Been very busy with a new job and a national registry test that I had to take.<br /><br />3/4/09<br />Got fitted for his dress uniform today. They had a full blown inspection of their barracks today, but everything was good. He got letters from me, Grandma and Grandpa Keef, Sean and Cathy. He was very excited about the pics of Gabe and is hanging one up. He is very happy about having the cough and throat drops. He gave me a website that you can look at <a href="http://ouroperationappreciation.com/default.aspx">http://ouroperationappreciation.com/default.aspx</a> A chaplains wife runs it. She takes pictures and posts them. Chuck will be under the F troop pics. I think I spotted him in a pic or 2.<br /><br />3/5/09<br />They did a confidence course today that Chuck really enjoyed. After they got back someone did something stupid and the whole platoon got smoked. Fireguard tonight and tomorrow. While on the obstacle course, he got kicked in the eye and face and now has a strawberry/black eye. Warmed up to the 60's and he got a little sun burnt. He went to Catholic bible study tonight.<br /><br />3/6/09<br />Went to another range today. They have a night infiltration course tonight. They were told that they were to do a skit making fun of the drill sgt's. It's a tradition supposedly. Their DS, who was off all week, just got back and smoked them. The night course was tonight. It was a sand pit the size of a football field with logs and barbed wire. They had to run over the log, under the barbed wire while they set off explosions. Then they'd set off flares and they had to stay still until it was dark again. The DS impersonation thing didn't go as planned. 4th platoon (Chuck's) was the first to go and the DS's got pissed and smoked them.<br /><br />3/7/09<br />Gas chamber today. Chuck said it sucked. The after affects aren't as bad as pepper spray. You feel better after you get fresh air, but it's really bad inside. He said that it takes your breath away and feels like your lungs are on fire. Did a bayonet course today. Started to get smoked tonight, but it was chow time so the smoking ended early.<br /><br />3/8/09<br />Went to church today and confession. Had coffee and cookies after the service. He got to pass the offering plate. There is a website <a href="http://www.dropshots.com/perezjc1">www.dropshots.com/perezjc1</a> that has pics of Chuck. They got told today that their troop is the 2nd best in the history of fort Knox in their marksmanship qualifying scores. After lunch, they got in formation ready for their run, and then stood in formation for 2 and a half hours. The DS's searched their rooms and wall lockers. Chuck said stuff was thrown everywhere and this was the first time he's really been mad since he got there. They ripped some of his pictures. It took an hour and a half to clean up.<br /><br />3/9/09<br /><br />Had a road block and check point class today, then a class on IED's and land mines. Got a letter from Gates, Grandma Jean, my mom and 3 from me. Some rooms got switched today so they have a few new guys.<br /><br />3/10/09<br />Did a room clearing course today. The barracks that they did this in is the one from the movie stripes. Chuck is really missing his radio. He requested I bring my IPOD for family weekend. Also he wants to take a shower so long that the front desk calls up and tells him that he'll have to get out.<br /><br />3/11/09<br />They got in trouble last night and their punishment was not being able to wake up till0450. they usually wake up at 0400. They had to be in formation at 0505. Today they rode on a trail and targets popped up and they had to shoot them from the back of a truck. He got a letter from Gma and pa Keef, and a card and letter from me (and some motorcycle pics he requested).<br /><br />3/12/09<br />Studied for testing tomorrow. Then going to march to a location and study more. Bible study tonight. They all got a piece of pizza in honor of Bravo troop graduating next week. Got a letter from Harling, Gareth, and me today. He hung the pic of my motorcycle up today and the DS said that he liked mine the best.<br /><br />3/13/09<br />Happy Friday the 13th. Still all first time go's on his tests. He is squad leader again. Getting ready for the 12k road march tomorrow.<br /><br />3/14/09<br />12k road march done. They get to go to a local church today for a meal and get to make phone calls so they are excited about that. They all ate a lot at the church and then had to go to chow and eat when they got back. Chuck ate lots of banana bread and cake. No fireguard tonight. We did get to talk on the phone for about 6 minutes so that was nice. They got their berets tonight and are shaping and shaving them to get them ready for family day. <br /><br />3/15/09<br />He woke up at 0002 to write Happy Birthday in my letter just so he could be the first one to tell me (even though I didn't get the letter for 3 more days). Went to church. His PT test will be Monday or Tuesday, don't know which yet. All they've done all day is clean and eat. He said he was going to try to get a phone call since it was my b-day and he did actually get to call. We talked for about 9 mins I think.chuckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02320350460527036291noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3633489699660289622.post-90940010424102614312009-03-15T20:05:00.003-05:002009-03-15T20:11:15.374-05:00Another Phone CallChuck got to call today because they did some group running. It was supposed to be 3 miles, but they let him call because he ran the whole time and never stopped. It was about 10 minutes. He is doing OK. Mainly talked about what to do for family day. His battle buddy is sick and now in the hospital with bronchitis. Chuck is trying to stay somewhat healthy.<br /><br />That's it for now.chuckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02320350460527036291noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3633489699660289622.post-28714980364112077302009-03-15T19:55:00.002-05:002009-03-15T20:05:27.010-05:003/2/09-3/3/093/2/09<br />He is still excited about the 25 min. phone call we got the night before. I don't know if I've ever talked to him on the phone that long before. It's 10 degrees outside and they had to do a road march. It's supposed to warm up soon. Movement while firing training today, which he thought was pretty cool. He got the socks and throat drops I sent( he asked for them). He was able to have the socks, but not the drops yet. The food is OK, but bland and he's ready for some real food. He has a big plan for family weekend if he gets his pass. Lots of food to eat. White Castle, Applebee's, Chinese, BBQ, Fried Chicken, apple pie and a brownie sundae. Looks like I'll gain 20 lbs. while I'm gone. Another guy has pneumonia. He may have to get recycled and start over again.<br /><br />3/3/09<br />Long busy day today. Grenade training. Ran a grenade obstacle course. Then they had an 8k road march. Chuck said that there were some big f****** hills. He's sore now. He did get the throat drops today. They get fitted for dress uniforms tomorrow. Fireguard again tonight.<br /><br />That's it for now.chuckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02320350460527036291noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3633489699660289622.post-37871562803426097002009-03-15T19:44:00.002-05:002009-03-15T19:55:23.201-05:002/27/09-3/1/092/27/09-2/28/09<br />Had PT today. Lots of cleaning. Training today and Chuck got to start his first IV. He is enjoying the medical stuff. Finished the first 2 rounds of tests with all 100% first time go's. He also completed the test he was really worried about with a first time go. One more test to go.<br /><br />3/1/09<br />Didn't get much sleep. He tossed and turned all night. He's realized that he likes thousand island dressing now. He never used to like it. He told me that I better bring my IPOD with when I come visit, because he really misses not being able to listen to music. They took their platoon picture today. Chuck is in front holding the flag. Fireguard again tonight so losing more sleep. I'm going to send him some pic's of his motorcycle. A few of the guys ride, so he wanted pic's. I figure I'll throw one of mine in just in case he wanted to see it.<br /><br />That's it for now.chuckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02320350460527036291noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3633489699660289622.post-53189269817618033872009-03-02T19:10:00.003-06:002009-03-02T19:16:14.828-06:003/1/09- Phone Call3/1/09<br />So I guess all the platoons are playing pranks on each other and stealing rifles. They were told that if they could steal a rifle from one of the other platoons that the person who took it and their battle buddy would get 30 minutes to run to the phone (across the street) make a phone call, and then had to be back inside before the 30 mins was up. So Chuck being the sneak that he is, he snuck in and stole a rifle. So him and Wood got to make phone calls. The rest of the platoon got to make calls too, but they had to share 30 minutes and their was about 30 of them so they only got a minute or so each. Me and Chuck talked for 26 and a half minutes. It flew by. We pretty much just talked about what was in all the letters, and family day coming up. It didn't seem like 26 mins at all. I remember not long ago when Chuck didn't even want to talk on the phone for a minute let alone 26.<br />I'll keep everyone updated as I hear things.<br />Nelchuckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02320350460527036291noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3633489699660289622.post-8917507512653828212009-03-02T18:53:00.002-06:002009-03-02T19:10:15.044-06:002/23/09-2/26/092/23/09<br />More rifle training today. Chuck is enjoying that. Everyone is excited about family day getting closer, but also getting more distracted by it. They were told that they will probably get to make a phone call the week before family day to let us know if they have a weekend pass or not. All he wants to do that weekend is sleep and order food in. Bed time.<br /><br />2/24/09<br />More shooting today. Close quarters and night vision. Cool. That's all for today<br /><br />2/25/09<br />At the range all day again today. They shot rocket and grenade launchers. Then they shot the machine gun with thermal sights. He said that was the coolest. Everyone was happy today. The are going to be testing for blue phase soon, but the might get put back down to white phase sooner. Bed time.<br /><br />2/26/09<br />Today they went and cleaned all the rifles that they had used the last couple of days. Then marched back for lunch, then marched back to finish cleaning. They had some of a combat class. Chuck said he learned some new moves that put him closer to becoming a ninja. He is really missing home. Even the dogs. They were told that on March 14Th they will get an outing. It is sponsored by a local church and they get to listen to some sermon's, eat a home cooked meal and play some games. They might get a phone call. He was going to be doing his IV sticks the next day. He asked how I'm doing because I'm learning IVs at work right now. There was a big empty space at the bottom of the page so he drew me a picture of his special pancakes.<br />That's it for now.<br />Nelchuckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02320350460527036291noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3633489699660289622.post-9817413564414123582009-03-02T18:39:00.002-06:002009-03-02T18:52:58.770-06:002/20/09-2/22/092/20/09<br />Early morning today. They ran the obstacle course again. They got 2ND instead of 1st this time. After the obstacle course they started cleaning. They have been cleaning now for 7 hours. He was hiding in the bathroom to be able to write this letter. He had catfish for dinner and said it wasn't to bad. Chuck's troop qualified for shooting better than any other in recent history. Bed time.<br /><br />2/21/09<br />The had a class this morning that was 1 1/2 hours and then have been cleaning the rest of the day. He did go get a haircut and some supplies. He has started drinking chocolate milk and saving it to drink as dessert. I can't believe all the sweets he is craving. Last night they were all sitting around talking to one of the DS's and Chuck's battle buddy said that one of the DS's was a teddy bear. Well, tonight Chuck and his battle buddy spent 1 1/2 hours getting their ass kicked by the teddy bear. Bed time.<br /><br />2/22/09<br />They got woke up early this am because 2 guys from another platoon took off in the night. They caught the 2 of them at Walmart buying clothes and eating. They were brought back of course. More studying and cleaning. Chuck did go to the catholic service today . Their bunk mate that was in the hospital came back today. He was feeling better. He had pneumonia. They were kind of jealous because he had a phone, TV, all the food he wanted and his wife was able to come visit him. But he was miserably sick. <br />Ok that's it for now.<br />Nelchuckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02320350460527036291noreply@blogger.com0