Thanks guys....
Can't say we're dodging bullets. This is my first tour in the rear area, not having to worry about the next day's missions and if the guys will get home safe. A nice gift from my boss' for the 4 previous tours. I'll take what is given, say a prayer for those that are up north, and do my best with the job at hand.
Still, we all miss our families, but we keep each others spirits up. This web page, DGJ, SSM, and the sporting journal have helped. E-mails from my 14 and 15 year old sons about "What the bird dogs ate/dug up/destroyed today" keep a smile on my face too. The wife hounding me (as a good wife should) about letting them know where Uncle Sam will be sending me next also keeps me on my toes.
All and all, a very normal military family.
Ken, I'll take you up on the offer. I've nearly worn out my GRS VCR tapes. They make it look easy, but I know the best way to improve is to move some metal. A few hours watching you push a graver around would be worth it's weight in gold.