Picture Of The Day - 30 SEP 2010 "CPT Sanchez"

30 SEP 2010 - CPT Sanchez

OK... so this is what happens when I don't get any new photos :) .... I open the vault and find photos of all the silly stuff that we do. 

I at least do have some reports from the team that the weather continues to cool down, but the work remains busy. October is almost upon us and thus the fighting season is nearing its end. Hopefully it will give the Wolfpack more time for these moments.

Picture Of The Day - 29 SEP 2010 "Shocking"

29 SEP 2010 - Shocking

No... he's not flipping us the bird... He, in fact, is stealthily giving us the Del-Flo "shocker". This is a true, 909th FST "inside joke", and I stumbled upon this image hiding in the vault. It's an oldie, but a goodie. You can tell it's old because the jokester is now CPT "A"... promoted during this deployment from LT.

Picture Of The Day - 28 SEP 2010 "Teamwork"

28 SEP 2010 - Teamwork

My favorite facebook vote was to see soldiers AND helicopters. So I cheated a little and came up with a photo inset that captures one event in two locations. As the helicopters roar in to the HLZ, the FST members wait for the wounded to come through the doors. 

This composite is also interesting to me on another level. It serves to remind me about how everything is interconnected. Its amazing how we go about doing our work and never really stop and consider all that it takes to get the job done. It takes real teamwork with many interconnecting pieces to achieve a successful outcome. From the people that make the helicopters and equipment, to the mechanics and technicians that keep it all running, to the logicians that get the supplies, people and material to the right place at the right time, to the pilots and crew, to the medics and nurses and PAs and docs. How it all comes together is simply astounding.

Picture Of The Day - 27 SEP 2010 "Approach"

27 SEP 2010 - Approach

A UH60 Blackhawk MedEvac helicopter, carrying wounded, begins its final approach into FOB Shank in Logar, Afghanistan.

Picture Of The Day - 26 SEP 2010 "Ambulance Volante"

26 SEP 2010 - Ambulance Volante

The "Ambulance Volante" ("Flying Ambulance") was first envisioned by Napoleon's surgeon Dominique-Jean Larrey in 1792 while serving as a surgeon with the army of the Rhine.

Larrey's Ambulance Volante

From WhoNamedIt.Com

"The flying ambulances were horse drawn wagons for collecting and carrying the wounded from the battlefield to base hospitals. He described this concept in minute detail in a report from the Italian Campaign of 1797. It consisted of a system of transport of medical supplies and supporting personnel. The personnel included a doctor, quartermaster, non-commissioned officer, a drummer boy (who carried the bandages), and 24 infantrymen. 

From then the flying ambulances were always present with the avant-garde of the army and even tended to the wounded on the battlefield, even under fire. They boosted the morale for the rank and file officers of the French Revolutionary Armies, but it's most revolutionary aspect was Larrey's attention to the wounded on both sides of the battlefield. A noble concept that survived to modern times in the form of the Red Cross."

Picture Of The Day - 25 SEP 2010 "Medics"

25 SEP 2010 - Medics

Medical team members from the 909th FST and 173d Airborne BSB walk away from the medical HLZ after loading a patient onto a UH60 MedEvac helicopter.

Picture Of The Day - 24 SEP 2010 "Arrival"

24 SEP 2010 - Arrival

This photo is from June, 2010 (We're hoping to get newer photos from CPT J). The medics of the 173d Airborne Charlie Med Co. carry a wounded ANA soldier to the triage station outside the 909th FST. This soldier sustained a shoulder wound by small arms fire and was featured earlier on the June 28th, 2010 PoD "Hollywood Bullet". He recovered well.

I receive unofficial, generalized reports that all our soldiers are doing well and they remain busy. This image above simply serves to remind us of the "everyday" life for our medical team. It's a tough grind to do this day in and day out for a year long deployment. Stay strong Wolfpack! We're sending all our good vibes your way.

Picture Of The Day - 23 SEP 2010 "MultiCam"

23 SEP 2010 - MultiCam

I just liked the picture of these 2 fantastic soldiers. SSG "N" on the left is our multi-talented ICU nurse and SSG "W" is a high-speed medic with the Airborne Engineers. SSG "W" is sporting the new camouflage pattern that will be worn by all soldiers in Afghanistan. It is termed the "OEF Camouflage" pattern. AKA MultiCam.  The latest news I've seen is it is due to arrive in October, 2010. Just in time for winter! It is already getting cold (even in Helmand province). The 909th reports that the daytime temperatures in Logar are now in the 70s and it can drop into the 40s at night.

Picture Of The Day - 22 SEP 2010 "Concentration"

22 SEP 2010 - Concentration

SGT "A" concentrates on documenting the care of a patient in his ICU. ... But as I reviewed this image, I could only come away thinking that that piece of paper doesn't stand a chance against the forces his forearm is generating with that pen.. Holy cow!

Picture Of The Day - 21 SEP 2010 "K9-Clysis"

21 SEP 2010 - "K9-Clysis"

From CPT "R's" photo collection: Above, members of the famed 909th FST provide medical attention to an Army K9. Yes... we treat K9s too! AND No... we don't do windows.

This photo is for Daniel who commented yesterday on the other K9s we typically think about in the Army, such as the EOD, MP, and specialized "Get me that Tango!" K9s. The K9 above was treated successfully for dehydration via hypodermoclysis (the infusion of saline solution in the subcutaneous tissue space). This had been a common method to infuse salt and glucose solutions into humans up through World War I. However, in humans this is painful and slow (about 1cc/min). Fortunately, for dogs there is that nice space in the nape of the neck that allows for easy, relatively painless infusion of fluids.

Picture Of The Day - 20 SEP 2010 "Ruff Job"

20 SEP 2010 - Ruff Job

I'm sorry,  just had to do it... The pun-ability factor was just too easy. AND I'm sorry I don't have a good story behind this photo. CPT J forgot to give me any background to this. Maybe he'll write a little something in the comments. But, I did notice something.. That is, the canine handler is of lower rank than his partner (E-5 for the man vs E-6 for the dog).  It's actually a pretty well known trivia factoid that the handlers are commonly of lower rank than their dog. Interesting, huh?

Erratum (20 SEP 2010):
The dog's name is Timmy and he is an E-7 (SFC). Thanks SFC "B" for the correction. You can see a short video clip of SFC Timmy at Army OT Guy.com. Timmy is a "therapy dog" (only 1 of 2 in Afghanistan). His mission is to help with stress reduction for our soldiers in theater.

Picture Of The Day - 17 SEP 2010 "Whiskey"

17 SEP 2010 - Whiskey

So, you wanna be a combat medic, AKA 68Whiskey. This isn't the Army's old medic (91B). Today's 68W medics all qualify as emergency medical technicians-basic. They are trained in advanced airway skills, hemorrhage control techniques, shock management and evacuation. They also must re-certify their skills every two years, and must earn 72 hours of continuing education credits during those two years. These soldiers are the most "independent" enlisted rank on the battlefield. It is up to them to make decisions that truly effect who lives and who dies. Its an awesome responsibility placed on young men and women, most of whom are not much more than one to 4 years out from high school. Therefore, only the most trusted 68W is allowed to go out routinely as a "line medic". In the photo above, SPC "K" is in Logar, Afghanistan at FOB Shank, serving his second deployment with the 173d Airborne. His first deployment was in 2007 with the 173d Airborne while they fought in the Korengal Valley. If you want to see what life was like during that deployment, I recommend that you see the documentary, Restrepo. The documentary, by Sebastian Junger, is a raw look at a single platoon of the 173d in the Korengal Valley.

Picture Of The Day - 16 SEP 2010 "Multi-faceted"

16 SEP 2010 - Mutli-faceted

SSG "P" is the embodiment of everything that makes a great US Army Reserve NCO. He brings to the mission not only strength, honor, intelligence and determination. But he also brings a background of diverse experience. SSG "P" isn't just a soldier (medic / operating room NCOIC). In fact, at home, he is a firefighter, HazMat expert, instructor and business owner. Fortunately for us, SSG "P" isn't the only instrument on the 909th's OR Mayo stand with this level of expertise (he's just the one that will cut you the quicker than the others). The 909th is packed with enlisted, NCOs and officers with extensive experience and talent to ensure that any mission is met with success. Drive on 909th! In my old days as a scout.. we used the acronym, FIDO. But this is the new Army :)

Picture Of The Day - 16 SEP 2010 "Life"

16 SEP 2010 - Life

CPT J has finally come through with a couple of new photos. Actually, the first photo was shot by him on 21 JUL 2010. It is the planter from the 909th "Sundeck". If you go to the link, check the last photo and you'll see it in the center. Anyhow, as we see, there were the beginnings of new life in July. Now... fast forward to the more recent photo below.

16 SEP 2010 - Life 2

I know that it will be tough for the boys out there... but look past the beauty of CPT "Y" for a moment (Can I say that??? I hope that doesn't violate any army EO policies).... and notice the progress that the 909th's vine has made in the past 2 months.

This is my way of showing the world that the team members of the 909th FST are focused on spending their time in Afghanistan not only by their construction and area improvement efforts but even more importantly through their efforts in saving AND nurturing life.

Picture Of The Day - 14 SEP 2010 "Quickdraw"

14 SEP 2010 - Quickdraw

We continue of "FOB Life" photo week with the 909th DET SGT (AKA Quickdraw McGraw). Above, SFC "B" creates the 909th "Wolfpack" logo with true artisan skill. The final product was featured as the PoD on 04 JUN 2010. Absolutely incredible art!

909th Wolfpack (from 04 JUN PoD)

Picture Of The Day - 13 SEP 2010 "Smelly"

13 SEP 2010 - Smelly

Just another little slice of FOB life. Notice the "Black Water" label on the side of the truck. Now imagine if you will, the odors that emanate from this area. It really can't be described... but I can tell you it is strong.... and close enough to the living quarters as to let you know when its latrine cleaning time.

Picture Of The Day - 12 SEP 2010 "Silly"

12 SEP 2010 - Silly

I have no idea what this stuff is like... I've never used it... but I think that it has great marketing appeal. My favorite is "Take Pride In Your Hide". What a great line.

How many more of these silly, inane photos will we have to endure before CPT J gets a chance to send us more up to date photos? .. Only the Shadow knows.

911

911

We remember and offer our prayers.

Picture Of The Day - 10 SEP 2010 "Gotcha"

10 SEP 2010 - Gotcha

This image pops up on my screen saver... It serves to keep me in line and motivated to exercise. Just not today... :)

Reflections Of a Former FaST Surgeon

SGT Raymond Alcaraz (from Army OT Guy.com)

As you have noticed, I have not posted for a while. At first, I simply wanted to give Ray and his team a fitting time of respect. Then, I really had nothing that I felt was more worthy than honoring them with a moment of silence. Recently, CPT Johnson (a good friend of Ray's) posted a fine memorial tribute on his blog "Army OT Guy.com". CPT J, you did a great job. 

During this hiatus from posting, I've taken the time to reflect on why I continue to write this blog. I had defined an end to it (when the 909th and 173d come home). But I have struggled with the idea of just ending now. So I thought, "why am I doing this? This takes a bit of time. I am busy back at work and with my family. What good am I doing? I this the right thing to do"? So I made a mental list. 

1. Email and notes from family have been very kind with thanks for the blog (I thank all you right back).

2. People who have never had any previous contact with Army medical teams now have a window into what life is like for these soldiers (at least at Shank.. it is different for different teams at different locations during different times in a war). 

3. It serves as a kind of vigil for me, keeping these soldiers on my mind at all times, letting them know how much I care. 

4. I am an educator by profession, and I like to teach. I enjoy the educational aspect of the blog, even when it seems that I am just talking about the things that we think are just normal, simple and everyday stuff.

5. I enjoy sharing the lighter moments of life for these people. I have intentionally not dwelt on the human trauma, or the difficulties of serving in a theater of war. There's enough of that to go around. I've grown weary of the sensationalism in our daily news. I wish our "mainstream media" would just shut their respective pie holes until they learned to report on something other than the rapes, murders and the Lindsey Lohans of our society. Sheeesh! Enough all ready. There's more to life.

6. Finally, I suspect that Ray wouldn't want my last post to be all about him... But please go visit Army OT Guy.com and read CPT J's tribute to SGT Raymond Alcaraz. Share his story... he has done more good for more people than Snookey for crying out loud! .. So turn tell others to turn that crap off and pay a little more attention to our men and women who are laying down their lives everyday because their country has called upon them to perform a mission - and they answered the call.

Well.... I think that's all for today. I will do my best to keep going forward. Suggestions are welcome.

Never Forgotten

173d Airborne BSB Heroes

“These four selfless Soldiers volunteered to serve in an Army at war. They deployed to combat, some for their second tour and they performed their dangerous and important duties with honor each day. These Sky Soldiers will be remembered for how they lived their lives, which ended too soon, but were characterized by commitment and dedication – their sacrifice will never be forgotten.” 

LTC Curtis Johnson, 173d Airborne Battalion Commander

Biographies of the fallen heroes from the 173d Airborne

Picture Of The Day - 02 SEP 2010 "Sacrifice"

02 SEP 2010 - Sacrifice

The Combat Medic Prayer

Oh, Lord I ask for your divine strength to meet the demands of my profession.

Help me to be the finest medic I can be, both technically and tactically.

If I am called to the battlefield, give me the courage to conserve and protect our fighting forces by providing medical care to all that are in need.

If I am called to a mission of peace and mercy, give me the strength to lead by caring for those who need my assistance.

Finally, Lord give me the strength and insight to take care of my own spiritual, physical, and emotional needs.

Teach me to trust in your presence, protection and never-failing love.

AMEN

The 173d Paratroopers Prayer

Kind Heavenly Father, our Great God who invites --- "Follows Me". 
May we with Stalwart hearts declare Thee Lord of all. We ask Thy Holy blessing to rest upon all paratroopers who are on the path to secure and sustain peace.

May we be ready at all times to boldly stand up for thy truth and ways and be steadfastly hooked up to Thy Law and Gospel.

May a primary part of our equipment be confident faith in Thee as we stand in the door of all missions in life. 
May the canopy of Thy love shield and keep us now and forever.

We go in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.
AMEN

Picture Of The Day - 1 SEP 2010 "Prepared"

1 SEP 2010 - Prepared

TF Brawler MedEvac flight crew briefs the "Wolfpack" commander on arriving wounded while the triage medical team watches as the patient is brought off the medical helicopter landing zone (HLZ).