Latest Pics - Capstone Pt. 2

One of the best activities we had was Convoy Ops. We simulated actually going on a convoy, and we had the chaplain assistants who are also in training with us so I had an assistant with me to provide for my security on this convoy.

On the convoy, we encountered a simulated IED attack, and we had to dismount the truck and take cover. I took this picture as I am laying flat on the ground a few yards into the wood line. You can make out my assistant and his M-16 as he is looking for "the bad guys."

In another training exercise, we conducted ramp ceremonies. A ramp ceremony is a brief memorial ceremony for the heroes who make the ultimate sacrifice for our country on the battle field. It is called a ramp ceremony because it is held literally on the ramp of the airplane that brings the fallen soldier's remains home. This picture is a bit sobering, but it gives a fitting reminder of the great price that is paid for our freedom. It also gives a great reminder why the role of the chaplain in our military is so necessary.

You saw a picture similar to this way back in June while I was in CIMT (the first phase of our training). This is Victory Tower. It stands about 40 feet high. We climb up and rappel down. We got to do this again this past week during Capstone, and I absolutely loved it! I would do it again in a heart beat.

Those of you who know me know that in the past I typically struggled with a pretty healthy fear of heights. What helped me conquer that you ask?

Well, for the folks back at Aydelotte, it was all that time I spent working on the new building up on that scaffold. That seriously was the time that helped me conquer that fear.

Notice to the side of the tower the large ladder. Notice also the height of the tower compared to the height of the people handling the rappelling ropes on the ground.

Dad, you always talked about rappelling being your favorite Army experience. Mine, too.