From our man in Afghanistan . .

All,

  Just a little update from Afghanistan.  We've gotten past the Parliamentary Elections with little of the anticipated action from the bad guys over here.  We see that as a definite down-turn in the Taliban's ability to influence things in this part of the world.  A large part of this is due to aggressive military presence by the US, Coalition Forces and this country's own military.  Afghanistan now has the basis for a solid country: a president, a cabinate and a military.  It is on it's way to being a self supporting democratic state.  Afghanistan has the basics but it still needs shoring up from the US and the coalition forces.  We need to be here a few more years to make sure the seeds we planted grow into a solid product.  OK, OK enough of the geo-political hoopala.

  Winter is settling in and it's getting cold.  We actually had snow last week and rain this week.  This is the first precipitation we seen in about 5 months.

  I've been pretty busy with my job here mentoring the Garrison Commander and his staff.  I'm supposed to have my own staff of 13 folks but there are only 4 of us.  I will be supplemented with 9 Navy personnel in January just in time for me to punch out.

  I'm in the process of getting the funding approved to build a new school right were Operation Anaconda took place.  I have already started some reconstruction and building improvements on two other schools that will allow more security and privacy for girls to attend.

  I've also been busy with the donations.  Last week I dropped two tons of  food and a ton & a half of shoes, clothes, blankets and such with the refugees outside our camp.  This morning I paid one last visit to the school in the refugee camp.  Their school year ends next week.  I did a question and answer session with a number of the classes.  With the thanks of Ellie Horst, grand daughter of a dear friend and teacher of mine, I was able to hand out a bunch of home-made winter hats for girls.  I will get to see the kids one more time next month when we will do a Toy Drop I'm planning.  I want the GIs here to hand out toys to all the kids in the camp around Christmas.  I've already OKd it with the village elders so we're not offending anyone with our cultural beliefs.

  If anyone would like they could send Christmas decorations for the GIs and stuffed animals for the kids.

  Last but not least I want to brag about Emma being selected as a Student Ambassador!!!  If she gets enough money raised she will be going to Australia this summer for almost three weeks.  I can't tell you how proud I am of that kid.

  Ya'll take it easy,

  Jerry