Aw hell

We’ve had two casualties this week. Not deaths, and not combat related, but two cats already on their way back to cooler climes.

First up was a private from our motor pool, I think. Two days ago he was playing some basketball on the court right outside of our command building. Some other soldier shoved him during a shot and whipped him into the pavement, face first. Poor bastard had his teeth punched through his lip, broke the bone plate on the roof of his mouth, and split his lower lip down to his chin.

His first surgery took place in Baghdad, but I hear he’ll be heading to Germany soon. His part in the war is over.

Then yesterday a private was found unconscious, sprawled out at the entrance of his platoon leader’s door. He was also flown to Baghdad. I don’t know what was wrong with that guy.

In response to the first incident, all basketball was banned. This latest incident has prompted the unit to contemplate having a sign out/in sheet for whenever you go anywhere or do anything. Want to go to chow from your room? First, walk to the battalion sign-out roster, then walk to the dining facility. Afterward go sign back in, then return to your room. Never mind the fact that battalion is on the opposite side of our area of operation. That means a whole lot more walking than usual.

I wonder if, in response to our first combat-related death, they’ll ban all operation and send us home. If basketball is so dangerous, who knows how we’ll cope with war?

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