Hump Day

PT Test - We are having our semi-annual Physical Fitness testing this week. What is the Army's Physical Fitness Test? It is where the Army evaluates each Soldier on their ability to do push-ups, sit ups, and the 2 mile run. There are also alternate events for the 2 mile run. They are the bicycle, swim or 2 1/2 mile walk.

We had a good turn out this morning, even though it started at 0530. We begin with the dreaded weigh in, which requires us to stand on a medical scale and includes being measured for height. I always feel like cattle that are getting ready to be sent to the slaughter house, but first we want to see what they are worth. After that fun task, we start the push-ups and sit ups. It is fun to see everyone trying their best to get the highest score. Even though passing is the standard, many go the extra distance to get the high score and bragging rights for doing the best on the PT Test. Once those portions are complete, we walk to the start point and begin the 2 mile run or 2 1/2 walk.

LuckyPix Interview -I will be interviewed for an article that will appear on LuckyPix's blog. They are wanting to learn about what we are going through out here in Iraq. How decisions in our life have brought us to where we are today. It should be a good article and great exposure for my photography.

Photo from Baghdad

Scott Reid plays guitar on the balcony of the Al Faw Palace. Getting time to keep up the guitar playing skills is difficult out here. The hours are long and the conditions are not favorable. It is great to see him take some time for himself.