August 12, 2004

We had a call from Adam last night, letting us know that they would be leaving today. We had a good talk with him and he assured us of his faith in God and his desire to share his security with others in his company. He said that the guys had all been talking and were sure that the guys in the company that C Company is replacing were very anxious to get home. That point is comforting to us as parents. It's a little easier to know that they are taking another company's place. We for sure want someone to take C Company's place when it is their turn to come home. We talked for awhile and said our goodbyes.

Then this morning about 10 am, I got a call at work from Adam. He was at an Air Force base somewhere about 2 hours from Camp Pendelton. Some man from the local VFW had brought cell phones to the company and told them to call whoever they wanted and talk as long as they wanted. Adam said there was a whole box of phones. What a blessing to be able to talk before he boarded the plane. He also called Ashlee and Rod. I just took that as afirmation that God is watching over him and allowed us to talk to him another time. We have already had some comforting things happen and the guys aren't even there yet!

We found out that all the HUMVEE's are armor plated now. What a great increase in protection! Also, the company will be transported to their base by AIR! That is so much safer. The plan was to take a caravan from Kuwait into Iraq. It was estimated that it might take as long as 2 weeks to get to their base. Convoys are so dangerous because in the desert they can be seen for miles around and any enemy has time to get ready to attack. We are so thankful that the guys are being air lifted to their base. They don't know if they will go in by plane or by helicopter, but that really doesn't matter. They will just be much safer. Thank God for His protective hand.

Also, Adam found out that the company will be stationed at Al Asad Air Force Base west of Fallaujah. We are so thankful that he will be at a base that has some protection. Hopefully, he will have access to some ammenities - like food and showers - maybe email. I'm not holding my breathe but I'm just so glad for the protection of a base. Adam sounded really good said that he is ready to go and get started.

We are trying to get him a guitar shipped to Iraq for his birthday. He had looked at some on the internet before he left and it looks like we may be able to get it shipped directly. We will be sending him praise and worship music. Just pray that God will use his ability to lead others to trust in Christ.

Thank you all for praying. You don't know how much it means to all our family to know that so many are praying. We are assured everyday that God is listening and protecting all our men. Please be praying for the military leadership in Iraq. Pray that God will give them wisdom and direction as they direct our troops. Adam's commander is Major Quehl. If you can pray for him, that would be great. As I said before, we don't know who his chaplain will be, but pray for him also.
I'll keep you all updated.

In Christ's love,
Jill