2009.02.02
02FEB09--A Super Farewell
Today, my team not only celebrated the Super Bowl by grilling out at midnight, we also wished farewell to one of our interpreters.
Evan (aka 'Eazy T') will depart Iraq in order to make the trek to the States in a few weeks. He will set up residence while he waits to be issued his green card, upon the receipt of which he will enlist in the U.S. Army.
You might wonder if the Iraqi Army officers felt less than complimented by his departed Iraq to join the U.S. Army. The answer is a definite 'yes.' I was present for more than one uneasy conversation on this topic.
In reality though, this opportunity is awesome for Evan. And, to be honest, the United States is getting the good end of this deal. A solid guy. I hope that he finds time to visit me at my home in Virginia.
The next time that he returns to his birth country, he may be wearing an Army uniform. Of course, a trip to Afghanistan may be more likely on his timeline.
None of the interpreters stayed up to watch the Super Bowl. A sport that they think is dangerous and a 2-5 am live air time is not much incentive.
Sergeant 'KC' Connaughton makes a speech about how valuable he was to our team and presents him with several parting gifts: A leatherman and a guidon, which is a traditional gift from a military unit.
Evan and I. While I may not be considered tall, keep in mind, he is standing on a step. We seasons our steaks in the trash bag in the background.
