Wow. 28 days. I first came out to Kwajalein back in 2003 intending on only staying one year... Now here I am, hitting right at four years on this tropical paradise. Unfortunately the time must come to an end.
As you would know (odds are you're either a close friend, or family, or some random surfer) I am leaving Kwajalein and heading on a new journey to Afghanistan. I'd say this is a bit of a change. Going from sunburns to sand fleas... Please be supportive of my newest endeavor.
Beginning my preparations for leaving has been surreal. It's a peculiar sensation when I look around at buildings on my way home with the realization that I won't be seeing them on my daily 3 minute commutes anymore. The word of my soon-to-be departure has spread around Kwaj like wildfire. Many folks shake my hands with congratulations, some say good luck, and a small handful have given me this weird "Hrrmph" look. My parents have both been quite supportive (their words were "Hey, at least it's not Iraq") and Sarah has more than been there for me (she's still saying "Ya know, you can always back out..." I know honey...) My pack out is slated for February 16th (my household goods should be back in Tx at some point in May I think) and I actually depart Kwajalein on February 26th.
