New Company

Ryan just switched Company's from Battle Company to Attack Company. He's now at a new COP (Combat Operating Post), with new guys and with new responsibitlies.  Here's a newsletter article from his new 1SG (First Sergeant). In blue are some explanations of the army lingo.

Attack Company is going strong. The weather has continued to cool. Nights are officially chilly and it only makes it into the upper 70’s during the day. The military intelligence community, which is responsible for dissemination of weather forecasts, keep threatening us with rains that may be arc worthy. So far it has been very dry though. Nonetheless we have continued to improve and storm proof our living areas both on the COP (Combat Operating Post) and at the strong points (smaller area, away from the COP) that our Soldiers call home. No need to worry, rain or shine Attack is prepared to continue our fight regardless. November has seen a positive turn in our relations with our Afghan counter parts. They received a new commander who is truly dedicated to the mission. We have increased our training with our “Shonnas” as well. Attack Soldiers have been giving classes in basic rifle marksmanship, first aid and explosives handling to the Afghan Soldiers, in order to build their competence and confidence. The Afghan security forces have stepped up their game and are taking over more and more of the terrain on their own. It is inspiring to see them evolve into a truly capable force ready to stand for their freedom on their own. As this long deployment winds down staying focused becomes more difficult. Thoughts of home, future plans and dreams of warm reunions begin to invade our thoughts. But our Soldiers are strong and their leaders experienced and disciplined. We will finish this deployment with the professionalism and discipline that we started. Keep your Soldiers in your thoughts as we finish this out. All of your support counts. Once again thank all of you for your continued support of your Soldiers. It almost seems like we are blacked out (periods where no communication with home is allowed...sometimes they last 3-4 days and sometimes even over a week) more than we are open on our communications to home. The strain this puts on relationships after all this time apart is appreciated. Please remember it is not your Soldiers fault and they want and need to hear from you, sometimes it just isn’t possible. Thank you for the letters, emails and packages they mean so much. Keep up the support it means the world. From all of us, thank you.

Michael Pore

1SG, Attack Company
“Victory to the Bold”