"I will not rehash how painful it is to move over here. The place we moved into was in disrepair - infested with mosquitoes, stray dogs, broken showers, and a lack of constant power. We were living with Iraqis like Iraqis. The Iraqis we live with are National Police that patrol the same area, sometimes with us and sometimes without us. I always had the desire to live in an industrial type building made of cement, metal, and sleeping in a mosquito net. I never thought that I would receive that opportunity in the Army. Our new home is an old cement factory that is no longer in use for that purpose. It's not a bad place to live and it is being improved on a daily basis. We have been winning over hearts and minds, starting with the Iraqi National Police and a little known game called dodgeball.

This last month there was another addition to the Platoon, SPC Zachary Brown and his wife gave birth to a baby boy born on May 31st. Back from rest and relaxation are SPC Paul Scarlett, and SPC John Henderson. The guys that went on leave in May were SPC Mitchell Brookman, SPC Zachary Francis, and PFC Jonathan Hydock. Other news this month is that Larry Aviles and John Henderson were promoted from private first class (PFC) to Specialist (SPC).

These last 30+days have been quite eventful for the Platoon. The next should be full of new things and events as well. Thank you again for your continued support and prayers. If there is anything specific you would like addressed please let me know at dcanchola@gmail.com