more news from my replacement

Sometimes, LTC Sanders will CC me on emails or write me directly to let me know how things are going in Balad with my old flight.  Since AEF 1/2 is about to end, the guys who replaced my group will be leaving shortly, so I’m very much looking forward to hearing about their deployment, and I’m particularly looking forward to debriefing with the folks from Nashville who stayed 8 months (meaning they served under me for 4 mos and under Sanders for 4 mos). 

Below is an email that I think is indicative of some of the best in our deployed troops, but that many readers will consider bad:  the pull of duty and country vs. family at home. 

Capt Don just came to my office, visibly distraught.  His
father had a cardiac arrest and is on life support in the Philippines.  He
doesn’t know much more information.  Don wants to continue on the mission.
He has spoken to his siblings and they are supportive of this.  His family is
working with the Red Cross in Philippines, so you may hear of this  shortly.
Don is scheduled to fly tonight and stressed that he still
wants to go, no need to sit around and worry about something he obviously
cannot control.  I am supportive of his decision and told him to use the DSN
as he wishes.