kabul02

From: Iain Clark
Sent: 21 August 2003 (04:39 and 13:19, edited)
To: David Clark; Jen Clark
Subject: MY OWN VEHICLE PATROL

The other day we sent out our Coyotes to receive their full load
of operational ammunition. It was kind of my baby, and the day
we had was Afghan National Day. The ammo compound was
90 mins away, so it was a long journey.

We went in two, five Coyote packets. I rode in the back hatch
of one of the troop leader's vehicles. The job there is to watch
the 6 o'clock position, particularly the roof tops. I think that we
made quite an impression on the locals. Everyone would run
outside to see us pass by, as the Coyotes are quite loud and are
the most war-like vehicles ISAF has sent out. Although I am
still a tanker at heart, the Coyote does look pretty mean with its
sharp angles and long cannon.

We went through a Hazari neighbourhood first. These folks are
the descendants of the Mongols who came through here. The
burqua was in less evidence, and the people seemed happy to
see us.

Five Coyotes travelling together makes quite an impression.
We kept our speed down and this allowed me to make eye
contact with many folks. I like to do that, as I can quickly rule
out threats that way.

Even old folks would smile at us, and although these people
have seen a lot of war they still seem to like a good army vehicle
parade! Our exhausts, however, are at face level on the
sidewalk side of the vehicle. This caused a few scowls and I
can hardly blame them!

Our trip was without incident, and the upload and return trip
went smoothly. We passed by two cemeteries on the way.
They are very desolate. The headstones are simple rocks with
no inscriptions visible. Martyrs have green flags over their
rocky graves and they were in abundance. There was little
order present, but I guess that arable land is very valuable.

Things are going well. The food is good and I'm running every
morning. The showers work and I can get diet coke if I want
to. We drink loads of water, and frankly I dream of gatorade
more than beer! ... we're better off than we were on exercise
this spring!

Things are picking up here. I've had a couple of interesting
nights in the CP. The camp is coming together and we are
starting our mission in earnest.

I've seen most parts of the city now. I have travelled in three
modes. The first was in rental SUVs. They were pretty beat up
and we blended right in. Folks didn't recognize us till we were
right on top of them (you could see their surprise). It was
perfect.

The second mode has been in Iltis (army jeeps). We are
noticed a long way away. Personally, if the aim is just to get us
somewhere (usually the case with me), I prefer to blend in. That
being said, our drivers are very good and we are very alert. I
always have my carbine in my lap, and we maintain all round
observation.

The third was in the Coyotes. We were noticed a long way
away, but I think that we make a very imposing presence. That
is precisely our aim, and the vehicle is excellent. A Troop of
Coyotes weighs in close to 100 tons and packs a tremendous
amount of firepower.

Well, my internet time is almost up tonight. Pictures seem to
work now (new computers). I really enjoyed the birthday ones!

Cheers,

Iain