The days are always different, but they end the same: a more secure Iraq. For the soldiers of Alpha Company, 2-72nd Armor, the mission of keeping Route Michigan open is a daily test of vigilance and dedication. Besides the dangers the Apaches constantly face, they meet new challenges and solve old problems outside the camp every day. Checkpoints, raids, and traffic police are only some of the additional tasks performed by the tankers in the company.

Since joining the light fighters of the 1-506th Infantry in July, the tankers have been made welcome, bringing their firepower and protection to the groundpounders' mobility and flexibility. The match was ideal. Together with Destroyer Company (D/1 506 IN) and platoons attached from the other companies, the route security mission runs twenty four hours a day, seven days a week. For the soldiers, the daily routine can get boring, but the regime that is established seems to make the time go by faster. When they are not out doing the mission, the soldiers are performing maintenance, talking with family at the phone center, using the facilities at the Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR) Center, or just relaxing in the barracks. Captain Christopher Plekenpol, the commander of Alpha Company, has also ensured that the morale of the men remains high through weekly Bible Studies. Every Thursday, soldiers from the company, and many from other units, attend to enhance their understanding of the Bible.

The Apache living conditions are definitely unique to the camp. Occupying the aircraft control tower on the old runway, the barracks have not only a great view of the town of Khaldiyah and the airfield, but have some of the best living conditions on the camp. A large dayroom on the first floor contains weights, cable TV, and a library of books for the soldiers. Immediately outside of the Tower, as the barracks are called, the company First Sergeant, Ralph Sartin, managed to build a volleyball court, several BBQ grills, and a tiled patio area. The motor pool, an old aircraft hanger, is an incredible asset to have to preserve equipment during rain or dust storms. Having consistent electricity, running water in the central latrine, and air conditioning, the barracks contain the bare essentials, and some of the luxuries, of life. With plans to get Internet in the barracks, conditions are set to improve even more in the coming months. There are plenty of opportunities for the handymen to find work. Building tables, bookshelves, and chairs keeps several soldiers consistently busy. Maintaining the grounds is also an intensive job that gets the cooperation of almost everyone.

And so the days continue. The leave program has begun, allowing soldiers to return to their families for more than two weeks. This opportunity to unwind and relax will let the company complete its combat operations here in Iraq in the nine months remaining in the tour. For now, keeping morale high and the soldiers as safe as possible are the focus of the company leadership. The excellent support received so far from back home has greatly assisted in this. We all say thank you and keep the home fires burning, we'll be there soon.