There are fewer days ahead, than there are behind

That is true for me in at least in the sense that I am counting down the days until my National Guard days are over. When all is said and done I will have served the Army National Guard, for 22 years. I have loved every moment. My early days were as an Infantry man (notice the crossed muskets - not rifles! - to the left). I have a deep sense of pride at having been an Infantryman. Despite what might be generally perceived, it takes a good deal of intelligence to be a 'grunt'. You have to know the effects or your men and equipment, you have to have a general understanding of those whom you are facing, you have to know how to shoot, move, and communicate effectively. And you must constantly be aware of your surroundings. I did more traveling, and the hardest training of my military career as a "leg". I also went and passed Air Assault school. It's a long story, but that year the TOW platoon had the bragging rights over the Scouts (we sent me, and they sent 3 - I was the one who passed). I still remember the recruiter asking me what I wanted to do. He listed off the available jobs, and when he told me about being an anti-tank infantryman - I was hooked.

My next job was that of a Military Policeman. To be honest I was not happy as an MP, I only transferred to that unit because I was trying to go to college and they were the closest unit. Eighteen months later I was so bored I transfered back to an Infantry unit that was over 50 miles away. Unfortunately I had not kept up my overall physical conditioning and I did not do well, so I went back to the MP's. I did make friends in that unit though. They were a good group of men and women. I also had the opportunity to visit the Panama canal with them. Not once, but twice. I also served on my first state mobilizations there and I found a deeper reason to be in the guard other than the military aspect. When I finally attended an NCO school, I met a recruiter who talked me into seeking a 'career' change. The timing was perfect because my beloved and I were getting ready to move. It was then I became a "Red Leg" (Artilleryman).

I have served as as Red Leg for almost nine years - the longest I have served in any MOS (military occupation specialty). I served with this unit when I was deployed (as MPs ironically). I have also served as rear echelon support, and was deployed for Hurricane Katrina and Rita. If it were not for the increasing angst of being away from my family, I would serve with this group of men until I was told that my services were no longer required.

As I was typing this blog entry up I was also thinking about the days that I will be walking the Earth. I am still fairly young, and only God knows the number of my days. My paternal Grandfather outlived two wives of 25 years plus an extra decade (after the second). He was a sharp man. To my shame I missed his funeral. He is buried with honor in Arlington. May the Lord grant me as many days as he saw, and may I have an impact on my beloved, children, and God willing - grand children's lives.
Verse for today:
Psalm 90 : 12-14, ESV
So teach us to number our days
that we may get a heart of wisdom.
Return, O Lord! How long?
Have pity on your servants!
Satisfy us in the morning with your steadfast love,
that we may rejoice and be glad all our days.