Tough Day - Nov 2

Dear Family,

Today has been a really tough day. We had a 5 mile hike over really rough terrain in full combat gear.  Cammies, boots, flak jackets, kevlar helmets, our M16's slung over and full packs on our backs.  We have to stay in formation and shout off cadences.  I am so beat.  Then we drilled the rest of the day, prepping for the final drill next phase.  Monday, we start shooting for the first time.  We practice for 3 days and then have to qualify on the las day.  I am going to go for my expert badge.  I just want to get to the end of this training.  I am tired all the time and I have not been comfortable since my last night at home with you all.  Don't get me wrong, I am motivated and still going strong!  Just missing home really bad today.

Anyways, how are things at home?  How was Halloween?   I spent my favorite holiday in a sitting position with my M16 digging into my shoulder for several hours.  Our rifles are pretty cool :).
We have Alogs on them so that part is exciting.

I have learned how to fight iwth a bayonet on my rifle and how to fight with it in my hand.  Hand to hand combat.  I know some pretty cool take downs, chokes, and finishers.  I feel like I am in a Mortal Kombat when we do combat training because they have us shout "kill" every time we execute a move.

As I move forward heres it really makes us move faster.  Everything we have to do has to be loud, viscous, fast, and intense.  Don't be surprised when I sit down for a meal together and I am finished before you even get started!  Despite how tough it is, as I look back on all the challenges I feel like recruit training has not been all that difficult.  I feel like anyone really could do it.  NOT everyone should-but, could.  But, maybe that is because I am feeling stronger mentally, physically, spiritually now.  Perhaps that influences my opinion.

I really do miss you all.  Make sure you are here early that morning of the 19th for family day!  I want you all to see my run the moto-run and have that day on base with me.  Then the 20th get a good parking spot so when I graduate we can HEAD OUT!  I can't wait to get a good meal and with my family.

Love and miss you all!

Love,
Tanner