tyrone

I just got done participating in a chat set up for the families in our squadron with the SCO (Squadron Commander) and the CSM. While there is more that I cannot say online that that I can, I thought I'd do a little update on Tyrone.

The guys are still operating kind of bare bones over there. The unit that they took over for was 1/4 of their size, so they are building their own stuff as they go. Their power supply can still be spotty, but they are getting more generators. A/C is a must, not a luxury, because it gets up to 107 degrees in the daytime.

They are building really strong relationships with the locals where they are at. This is so important, as their whole mission revolves around making a more stable life possible for the populace. Communication is getting better by the day with the locals and our guys, and they seem to be receptive to what we have to teach and give.

Communication home is spotty at best. Tyrone and I are in a unique position to have more contact than most because of his current job over there, and it's still not much. I haven't heard his voice in a while...we get spotty messages sent back and forth online, no instant messenger, no webcam. As far as letting him know the day to day stuff, what the kids are up to, that kind of thing, letters are pretty much it. Which can take up to 2 weeks to make it to him, so it's not ideal. Still, I'm grateful for the contact we have.

The packages Tyrone has gotten have really made his day! They are without access to any type of store at all, so all the "stuff" ie snacks, entertainment, etc. that they have has to come in their care packages. He also loves getting letters. Just reading about someone else's day is a welcome distraction and a tangible reminder of the thoughts and prayers heading his way.

Tyrone is happy as possible in his situation. He jokes all the time, hasn't lost his classic "Tyrone" sense of humor. He is making plans for his next vehicle, what else! We are also making plans for the next several years for our family.

I am so proud of Tyrone. I trust and believe in the command group. I am incredibly proud of what they are doing, and I think that their specific mission is enormously vital to our success over there-and it is a mission of rebuilding, of hope, of freedom. That may sound cliched, but it is true. I miss Tyrone so badly my heart is aching, it is a physical pain. But I believe he is doing something world changing. He is my hero.