2009.04.24
23APR09--100 Degree Mark
Today, the thermometer crested 100 degrees for the first time in 2009. The high was 102.
As the temperatures slowly raised through the 70s and 80s in the past few months, I have been wondering how we ever coped with 140 degrees. I would wonder how we managed and operated on missions with our all our gear on inside of our trucks.
Well, today I was reminded how we deal with it. We get hot.
It sounds so simple, and it really kind of is. It is hot, and you sweat. You drink water and keep moving. Nothing is impossible.
The Iraqis deal with the heat by taking naps in the afternoon.
Lucky for us that the weather is going to cool off again and have highs in the 90s for the next week.
Comparatively speaking, it's supposed to be a mild 90 degrees here in the Roanoke Valley tomorrow, Richard.
I can't imagine 140 degrees, but have no doubt that you know exactly what to do in that kind of weather...
Steve McGraw
Comment by Steve McGraw — April 24, 2009 @ 9:33 pm
A very unscientific poll has shown that most guys think you're kinda cool but almost all the gals think you're really hot. Hate to admit it but this is one of those numbers don't lie but they don't help either times. Stay safe Capt. Connaroe, and hope you get back home soon.
Comment by LarryS — April 25, 2009 @ 12:29 am
You'll probably hunt me down and smack me hard when you get home, but...It's a dry heat, right?
A friend that served during 1991 noted that once it gets above 110 or so, it doesn't matter. It's hot. Period.
That and the "entertaining" camel spiders.
Drink fluids!
Comment by Ed S. — April 25, 2009 @ 12:54 pm
The Thunder Run has linked to this post in the blog post From the Front: 04/27/2009 News and Personal dispatches from the front and the home front.
Comment by David M — April 27, 2009 @ 9:36 am
Rich, continue to enjoy your blogs. When your tour is over, you should consider writing a book on all this. I'm starting to collect books written by soldiers & marines about the "real" experiences of this war. Hope to add yours one of these days!
Keep up the good work & stay safe out there.
Fred
Comment by Fred Way — April 28, 2009 @ 7:31 pm
This past week has really been a shock to Roanoke but it is cooler today. I could not make it in 140 degrees but I know you all have no choice but to go on. Take care...
Cam
Comment by Cam Srpan — April 29, 2009 @ 4:27 pm
Steve, I know that you are the adventurous type. I should think that you have seen some hot days on your motorcycle.
Larry, thanks for the rather unexpected compliment...
Ed, it is a dry heat. I could not even imagine summer temperatures here combined with the humidity of Southeast USA.
Fred, I would love to write a book and have started the first chapter several times now. I had a good friend read my attempt, and it got the big thumbs down. But I have to be honest, I will most likely not write on my deployment to Iraq. Thank you for such a nice compliment to think that there would be a market for me experiences. However, there are too many issues of interest that would be improper on which for me to comment as a Soldier.
Cam, I know that you could take the heat. Peoples all across the middle east live in these conditions. The body can take a lot, and I know that you are a tough lady.
Comment by Rich Connaroe — May 3, 2009 @ 9:36 am