That same night that I was mad at my radio. An Iraqi Army soldier with one of my team leaders. Just as a note, I go on a rant occassionally. These are more depictions of the frustrations that we face here and are not meant to offend anyone. Its simply the thoughts that circulate in our heads daily in this fight.

Not a very good picture, but the real thing was a nice view. We were driving back to the FOB with the Mosque in the background. I had to get a quick picture.

Conducting some ad hoc medical training with the Iraqi Army. These guys are great. I truly respect these guys. They are motivated and really impress me. I think its really how we treat them on a personal level that makes the difference. Treat them with a little respect and they will go far.

A long night. Conducting ops throughout the city. This is one house we were in. I'm not too happy with the radio right now.

Here is another random picture. I do have a story to relate. A look into Kurdish culture. I was up in the Iraqi Army command post today to tell them we were there if they needed any help with anything. One of the soldiers approached me and we shook hands. I began to pull back, but he did not let go. Instead he began to speak to my interpreter (TERP). My terp said "this man thinks you have a pretty face." I was like "what did you just say?" "Oh, sorry wrong translation, he said you remind him of his best friend back home and he likes you for this." Terps sometimes give some crazy translations. It is common for men to kiss each other on the cheek when they have not seen each other for a long time here. It is also common to see men holding hands who are good friends. Eventually, I was able to withdraw my hand and even knowing this cultural attribute, it was difficult to overcome my American personal space. These are stark differences between cultures and it can become very uncomfortable at times. However, understanding is key to working with these guys.

This is Mosul after a half a day of rain. This is definitely no joke with flooding. That is about waist high at that point where it meets the highest point on the Stryker.