As the day wore on, I remember thinking to myself, "I finally have something I can write about." But I didn't write it down immediately, and now I sit at the computer dumbfounded.
I know there are some 'bloggers' out there who feel that they have something insightful, something worth writing EVERY day...if not multiple times each day. I have my share of experiences, thoughts, feelings and memories...but not all of them get tossed carelessly into the limelight.
Oh, yeah....there was something....
I don't think I will ever forget the sound. Its distinct, recognizable, shrieking roar. I buried myself in the ground so fast I didn't have time to call out and warn anyone else, but looking around, they were already down, instinctively knowing what it was. We usually respond to rocket or mortar attacks only after hearing the sirens go off. Most of the time we never hear or see the rounds. Things have changed lately. I immediately felt vulnerable. I was in a tent, no barriers or bunkers within immediate reach, and all my gear including my vest were in the helicopter- where we thought we'd only need it when flying outside the perimeter. The only comfort was the solid earth pressing on my face.
Sorry Kris, if I didn't tell you about this before. It's a part of daily life here. Never paid it much thought until you hear that round scream right over or through your tent...so loud you don't really know which. It forces you to look it in the eye at that point.
What was even scarier was the absolute silence that followed. I froze, waiting for the shock wave...knowing it impacted extremely close. But silence. The distinct 'CRUMP' and shudder were absent. That made it even more nerve racking. Do you get up and investigate? Was it a dud, or will it detonate as soon as I think it's safe. I waited, and then forced myself to trust...if it didn't detonate on impact it probably wouldn't. EOD removed the round and detonated it away from the living areas. We are continually blessed.
I hesitate to write this, with so many loved ones concerned for my safety. But these realities occupy so much of my conscious and unconscious thoughts. The remainder dreams longingly for the comfort of my sweet wife's arms.