Afghanistan Visit

This past week I was able to make a quick journey to Kandahar, Afghanistan and surrounding areas, thanks to the hospitality of the United States Marine Corps. Special thanks to Lieutenant General Joseph Dunford for setting the trip up, and to Brigadier General Ronald Baczkowski (pictured here on the left) for being such a gracious host. I'd also like to thank Colonel Michael LeSavage (pictured center) and Captain William Milana (pictured right) of USMARCENT in Tampa, FL for allowing me to join them and for providing me with so much valuable information.

The goal of this trip was to meet the key players in Afghanistan and to do a bit of a needs assessment in terms of Spirit of America projects. It was a resounding success. Not only were my hosts able to provide valuable information on how things work and who can help us complete our mission, but I was actually allowed to visit the Forward Operating Bases (FOBs) in southern Afghanistan to witness everything first hand. The highlight of the "in theater" portion of my trip was the visit to the 3/8 in Farah Province. Spirit of America donors have been funding the activities of LtCol Dave Odom and Major Brian Mulvilhill for several months now, and I was able to meet them both face-to-face and get a briefing on their activities. You will not meet two finer, more professional Marines.

More on the details of my visit in a few days. I wanted to let everyone know that I have returned, that the journey was successful, and that I look forward to the growing relationship that we're developing with the United States Marine Corps and other military personnel in Afghanistan.

Dennis Norris

Jim Hake's blog (personal) is here http://jimhake.typepad.com/jimhake/