Countdown to retirement has begun. I was talking to my Training NCO and he said, “Damn, you are short timing”. I said, “Yep, in December I start my terminal leave.”
I will miss being a soldier, being in Artillery, and being with the guys. It’s what I have known for almost all my adult life. But, I have done my part. I have been to Afghanistan, Iraq, Kuwait, and Syria. Of the nearly 23 years of marriage to my wife, we have probably only been together 18 of those years? I have sweated, bled, and sacrificed. I’m ready to go but will miss it all terribly.
I can’t wait! I’m an old man now and I’m ready to have a little less responsibility and enjoy more time with my family. I look forward to spending more time with the grandson. Hopefully, WWIII doesn’t kick between now and the fateful day, but, if it does, I’m a soldier. I’ll do what I have to do.
I thank the Fates and the Gods for giving me a pretty good life. I am so appreciative and I’m ready for the next chapter.
Crusty Old Smoke 