The field exercises consisted of wearing almost 75lbs of extra gear, miles of hiking, getting tear gassed multiple times a day, being shot at (blank rounds), getting bombed by mortar fire (blank rounds), mass casualty drills, and my least favorite the MREs (my clothes are definitely fitting allot baggier than when I left, which is a good thing!) I was a great experience! It really makes me appreciate what our servicemen and servicewomen do on a everyday basis. We sure do have some of the most professional and dedicated folks providing security to our great country.

For anyone who is interested in writing I am attaching the mailing address for my current location, there is a possibility that it will change once I do head overseas, so if it does I will make sure to provide the new address:

IT2(SW) Douglas McPeek

NMCB21

C/O 31st SRG

1000 23rd Avenue

Port Hueneme, CA 93043

People will be heading out on their leave periods over the next couple of weeks to see their families for the last times before heading overseas. Due to I joined the group later than most, I will be granted a 96 hour liberty pass in which I will be going to San Diego to visit with Cindy’s father and brothers.

The weather here in California has been great, a couple days of rain but overall the sun has been shining and it beats the snow fall that has been happening back home. I hope all of you are doing well and best of luck to all of the Scouts with the upcoming Pinewood Derby!

Take care of yourselves and each other!

Warmest Regards,

Doug