So here it is…..

My introduction to the world of blogging. I’m not sure if this is going to be a journal of types or what some see as a “real” blog for now. I guess I’m just going to relay some thoughts, feelings, or maybe even adventures. We will see.

I’ve added some in the about me section, but I guess I could always go into more detail. I graduated in 1995 and through the urging of my mom (who knew there was nothing for me in great old Edgewood, MD) I joined the U.S. Army as an infantryman. I had no clue whatsoever I was getting myself into. Those next 4 years were my total introduction into adulthood and some of the best and worst years of my life. I spent 2 years as a jacked-up private and the next two realizing that the army would be my way of life for the for-seeable future.

Over the next 13 years, I spent my time as a helicopter mechanic. In specific an OH-58D(R) Kiowa Warrior mechanic. I loved wrenching, but all in all, I made my money being an inspector. Basically, I inspected when the wrench turners did their job to make sure it was right. Along with that came the background paperwork. Gosh, what a wonder it would be to just say that on a resume. (Excuse the lack of accent, as I am typing this on a keyboard/iPad combo I’m not used to yet.)

So there were, yes, a couple of deployments. 2003-2004 to Kuwait/Iraq. 2005-2006 to Iraq (FOB McHenry/ Kirkuk.) 2008-2009 Iraq (Balad “COB Speicher”.) And finally 2011-2012 Afghanistan (Bagram.)

All in all there were some great adventures along with some loss. I would be remiss if I didn’t mention those here. First came Chris and Don. Then came BJ. Scott and Matt. And finally Jose and Thalia. If any of their family are reading this and recognize a misspelling I am deeply sorry. I know what they were to me and can only imagine what they were to you. I’m sure at some point I will write about them again.

That paragraph didn’t come without some disharmony. There were a few more sentences in there. I wrote the majority of this while having a few drinks. You know the “spill-all” serum. Some super serious quick research by my girl, brought up some things that had been welled down and it turned into a contentious couple of minutes. Thank God, I have someone who supports me in writing this and knows what comes with my past. Also thank God for having someone who is patient enough to deal with me most of the time.

Ok so there it is. There is some history. I know there is a depressing paragraph in there, but without it, I am not who I am. I continue to live life and try to do the best I can. Those years weighed me down with heartbreak and sadness. Eventually it was time to live life for me and only me.

I have struggled with depression and everyday issues. For those of you who might know me, this might be a surprise to you. I do my best for my kids. For those of you who don’t know me, this is me.

So this is it, my first post. If you want to come along for the ride, you are more than welcome. If not, so be it. I am going to do my best in this to be transparent, my thoughts, my feelings, and more than likely an insight into who or what I am.