Afghanistan/ Iraq and Civilian deployment

Hello friends and brothers of the locker room . I would like to hear your thoughts on this matter as I have placed my hat in that ring and VOLUNTEERED  to go  work for one year in Afghanistan. I have writen to my point of contact in the pentagon and requested that I be concidered for this , I would love the opp .  I have started the ball rolling on this already , this does not mean that if I am  approved that I have to execept the offer.     SO am I  or what ?? Id like to think that Im not but you be the judge. What do ya think ?        Best wishes   Nick

My regular doctor was recalled to active duty and spend almost three years in Iraq/Afghanistan. He return to the US about 6 months ago. He was not so keen on his experience in Iraq, but said the Afghani people where truly amazing, genuine people. Just like WLS, a decision like this is highly personal, and only you can make it. My only observation is that for me, the only regrets I have in life seem to be for the things and opportunities that I didn't do.

Thank you  It is an oppprtunitie that I am not will to let just pass me by .    Best wishes   Nick

I think it sounds like an experience of a lifetime as well as an extremely patriotic thing to do, Nick. On the other hand is the danger factor and the impact on your family, etc should something bad happen. Only you can be the judge of that. I applaud you for looking into it.  Boner

Yes it does sound like an adventure doesent it . It is my understanding  that there is some danger factor and some cases Civilians are required  to carrie a side arm . These are things that I dont know about just yet .    I have over twenty years in the aircraft industry . I have worked on military aircraft all of my working adult life . I have worked on a wide range of aircraft and  feel I have somthing to offer , just dont know what as of yet    All of this depends on me being excepted into this elite group of  civilian aircraft workers .    best wishes   NIck

Nick - in what capacity / branch of service   would you be serving?  It's a weighty decision indeed,  my hat is off to you....

Baja   I would be working for DOD . That means I could be working for the Army /Navy / Air force / or even civilian contracted airliners . Some sort of aircraft work .  Best wishes    Nick

I talked to an ol' boy a couple of months ago who had just gotten back from Iraq. He drove a bus hauling construction workers for KBR. He said he'd go again in a heartbeat. Of course, he teaches HS over here in the states so he's used to hazzardous duty. According to him, if you stay in country at least 330 days out of each calendar year, the govt don't make you pay taxes on your income.

Would your having the LapBand in-place constitute any sort of barrier for being considered for duty in a combat area? If that's not an issue, I figure it's really up to you (and your spouse, if you're married.) /Steve

You are right Steve . This is not to be taken lightly and I have talked it over with my wife . I have been married for 25 years now . We both agreed to this if she had not wanted me to go I simply would not go . I do have a  fourteen year old daughter though , and that does weigh heavy on my mind . But as Fat man walking said this would be an adventure of a lifetime.   As far as the band goes ?? I dont think it will be an issue . The letter I have that was writen by the joint chiefs of staff said  " if I am able to do my current job without any special medical needs " Im in the clear on that .  I have no special needs at this point : at least none Im willing to talk adout .  LOL      Best wishes   Nick