Jared Called

Just got off the phone with Jared--he actually called at 9:00am and NOT 2:00am!!! And I got to talk to him--Dave always talks! So--I got much more information to share!!!

He is still at his original location. The soonest they will be moving is May 3rd, but more likely mid-May! Sounds like some hold-ups have to do with congress and what their mission really is. They approved to send them there--now they don't know what to do with them!

The base he is on is very large. There are sections on it for the military from all different countries. He rattled off about 10 different countries there. Where he is living is about 3 miles from the "center" of the base where most things are. They have a shuttle that runs every 20 minutes. It's like a small town--they go there to eat at Burger King, Subway, Pizza Hut--go to movies, shop, etc.... He said it is really no different than being on a base in the US other than everyone is carrying weapons! They keep their weapons with them at all times.

A couple of nights ago he got to see a concert by Toby Keith. Said it was awesome. At one point during the concert, the "incoming" sirens went off. According to him, the Army and Airforce guys all went running for cover. But--the Marines stayed and took advantage of the situation and moved forward to get all the front row seats!!! Go figure! It turned out to be a false alarm and a half hour later the concert resumed!

The next morning Toby came to his "camp" had breakfast with them.

All in all he sounds great! Having fun, but rather bored with not much to do. Their equipment and vehicles is slowly all arriving.

Says to tell everyone hi and to keep the letters and "stuff" coming!!! Sounds like he gets very excited every time he gets a package!