It just doesn’t get any better than this. Tonight is really what we came here for. Bring some home, music and entertainment to the men and women who are deployed in a remote area for yet another holiday.
The band was even better than last night, the soldiers were more than enthusiastic and everyone was touched by it all.
Ben and I started off New Year’s day making sure we had our logistics organized and in sync for our departure to Warsaw (via Budapest) tomorrow. The snow is falling heavily right now and we’re concerned about the roads getting to the airport and hoping we won’t be grounded on account of weather. Our schedule from here on out is very tight and we really don’t have a lot of room for flexibility.
At the venue, Thom posed for a pic before going in:
Inside, while setting up, John found a new dance partner:
Connie, I think he misses you a lot!
We had a couple of photo ops with the commanding General of the base. One with the group:
And one with a special flag:
We had a great crowd when the show started:
Some soldiers have to carry their weapons everywhere, even at a concert. Watrch out for this gal:
Every soldier wanted a cd and autograph after the show, but they especially wanted to thank us for being here on a holiday for them.
After we got all these fine men and women taken care of, made our thank yous, we still had to pack up and head back to our quarters:
It was one of the best nights I can remember. And I think these soldiers will think of it that way, too.
Tomorrow: Warsaw
We still miss you!
Jerry
4 comments:
Jerry, I so look forward to everything that you post--I check the blog often and feel like I've hit the jackpot whenever there's a new post. By following your daily running commentary, I feel like a little cyber-fly on the wall. Not only are you memorializing this amazing experience, but you're enabling those of us back home to realize that it's only through the concerted effort of many unseen (not to mention the seen: the Nashville contingent) that the troops can enjoy this much-needed diversion from their duties. Thanks, stay warm, and happy new year.
I wonder if the solders that have to carry their weapons with them at all times are the Marines. I seem to remember that Marines carry them everywhere they go.
Miss you. *hugs*
-gabe
Hey Guys make sure you have extra fuses for Warsaw !! I'm sure the Ambassador will love seeing you guys again. Have a shot of Zubrowka for me !! I hate you guys so much ! Tim
Great job guys, what a rewarding experience this has to be. One which will always stay with you.
As to what Tim said - let me echo my hatred for you all too. But my hatred is one of pure, selfish jealousy toward anyone with talent (so I guess I extend that hatred toward Tim as well)!
And Jerry - if it gets really cold - be sure to work up a good sweat and wear lots of layers of cotton when you go out.
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