Battle Rattle

It had been three weeks since we'd been able to talk by phone to Paul, but he was able to call last Sunday. Evidently they have 3 phones the soldiers can use and they have to stand in line (for over an hour) for their turn, which can be no longer than 10 minutes. Paul stood in line 3 times so we got to talk to him for 3 ten-minute sessions! It was great to hear his voice. You could hear the confidence in his voice, and for the most part he is enjoying Boot Camp, if that is possible! The part that drives him crazy is the "hurry up and wait", like when they wake them at 4 a.m. and give them an hour to get ready for breakfast, then they have to stand at attention for 45 minutes before being allowed to go in for breakfast! This current phase has been about shooting guns... not my favorite activity, but I'm sure appeals to most guys!. His best record is hitting 35 out of 40 attempts, which gave him the second-highest rank of "sharpshooter". If he gets 36/40 he'll get the highest rank...that's his goal. The memorable story in his letter this week was normally they have 3 guys on "firewatch" which I think entails 3 guys keeping watch during the night hours. One guy fell asleep on his watch, so the consequence was that 20 guys had to do the next firewatch in full Battle Rattle = wearing IBA (bullet proof vest), LBV (Green vest with canteens), Kevlar helmet and Ruck Sack (Backpack)...all together this weighs about 40 - 50 pounds! Hopefully that won't happen again! He's now past the half-way mark of boot camp and we're counting down to graduation...Thank you again for your encouragement for him and the prayers and letters you've sent his way!