Update from Afghanistan - Camp Leatherneck

It's hard for Jared to email each of his family members and friends individually because he is only allowed twenty minutes in his communication cubby. He opts to call his wife and son first and then whatever time left he tries to answer a few emails. So I am updating our blog with pictures and news from Afghanistan.

Fortunately Jared is at Camp Leatherneck right now which is a large marine base where most marines and navy must pass through when going to Afghanistan. Jared believes he will stay at Camp Leatherneck for quite awhile until their mission is fully defined. I'm personally OK with him being here for as long as necessary because we can Skype every day.

Jared flew into Afghanistan on a C-17, and the picture below shows the back door being dropped as Bravo company sees Afghanistan for the first time.

As you can see they must wear their helmets, flak vests, and weapons at all times.

This is outside the living quarters for Bravo company and the vehicles they use to travel in. (I'm not happy they have to travel at all, but Jared has assured me that these vehicles can withstand an IED.)

This is an inside view of the living quarters. Can't wait for this to open up as a resort;)

And this is Jared's personal space. These are bug nets covering their cots... those must be some nasty bugs!

Every morning, Jared has the same routine. Wakes up at 5:15am and showers here:

and then waits in line for up to an hour at times to enter the Morale Tent, pictured below, to chat with me and Jack for twenty minutes.

The rest of the day is spent in top secret meetings that I don't get to hear about.

When Afghanistan finally opens up for travel, everyone will be booking their flights to take in these beautiful sunsets!

Jared is doing very well and is adjusting to life in the desert. He said it's still mild... only about 80-90 degrees every day. He can't wait for summer to hit so he can enjoy the hot desert heat of 100 plus degrees every day for five months. :)

Pictured above is the company commander, Cdr Woelkers, that Jared works side by side. He is a great leader and Jared is grateful they are working together. Woelkers is a big outdoorsman, hunting and fishing (including bow hunting) so they have lots to talk about in their spare time.

Jared found the LDS services last Sunday and said the church is true wherever you are--even when you attend sacrament meeting in a tent with a weapon strapped to your side. In all seriousness he said the spirit was very strong and it was good to commune with other LDS soldiers. There are about 35-40 soldiers who attend the meeting.

I have Jared's address if anyone is looking to send a letter or package. Please email me if you want it, johnsonkristina@gmail.com. He does appreciate all the support and wishes he had more time to email and call each individual family member and friend.

Thanks for all your love and support for our family!