Pre-Annual Training Jamboree

Over a half a year in the real world, and it is time for me to experience Annual Training once again. I just finished reading a blog on another soldier’s Annual Training for inspiration. I hope my two weeks don’t turn out like his; Bad food, drinking excessively (which isn’t allowed), intimate relations between consenting (presumably unmarried) adults (I don't need to know about that!), lost or stolen personal items (locks on wall-lockers are always a good idea), being treated like a twelve year old (Now don’t forget your “X” and your “Y”), waiting around and lots of “stay busy for no reason” work. The lesson learned from his experience: unless someone says “I Promise” before telling you what the plan is, there is no for-sure chance that you will be doing it. Just simply being told, “This is what you will be doing” doesn’t really mean anything (which gave me a real laugh!). And I sympathize with the Mall of America experience, if you haven’t completed task “X” then your MWR trip to ”Y” won’t happen. And then when you do complete task "X", suddenly, there's a change of plan--a great moral booster. How true!

I hope AT will be similar to a scout jamboree; a large gathering of Scouts (but hopefully adults) who rally at a national or international level. I will recite my oath; be true to my "Trustworthy, Loyal, Helpful, Friendly, Courteous, Kind" motto, muddle through and hopefully have a positive experience. I will expect planning that occurred a half a year ago to fall apart on the second day, I will expect the food to be marginal (even though the food at Fort Hunter Liggett isn’t bad), I hope the heat isn’t too unbearable or as hot as Baghdad (even though it is a close second to Baghdad), and I hope to get along with everyone and provide the pals with a PMA (Positive Metal Attitude). I am excited to get away from sitting in a chair for nine hours, staring at a monitor that talks back to me, commuting, excessive coffee, and all the delectable treats work provides. Don’t take that last cookie!

But I am excited to take on the challenges that the army presents me. I call it "defending the country." I’ll do a great job and let's hope Osama or the Hesbos don’t show up at Hunter Liggett. We may be delayed in attacking due to chow not being on time, ammo not showing up, officers not knowing the half a year schedule, and soldiers following the Army of One motto. But I will adapt and overcome. Drive on young warriors!