Iwo Jima Day

Yesterday I took the cadets to participate in an Iwo Jima day parade in Boston. When we arrived we came upon another unit from the same organization. This unit from western Mass was larger and more experienced so we folded our kids in with theirs. The CO of the other unit was a in-your-face drill instructor type and my kids received a rude awakening at his behest. However they seemed to quickly settle into the new order and performed well at the parade.

Afterwards I went to see my sister who is recovering from a three week stay at psychiatric hospital. We had a great visit and we both enjoyed the company. She seems to be making some progress. I hope she continues to work on her issues.

Forward in time

Last night I drilled with the cadets. We have not had many drills in the past 30 days other than holiday parties, so it was nice to get back into a routine. I have been neglecting my responsibilities relative to the program. I need to spend more time on administrative tasks outside of drill.

Tonight will be my first time volunteering at the adolescent home. I am a little anxious but very excited about working with the kids.

Lately I have been thinking that I need to spend more time actively engaged with my own family. I wish I could go forward in time and meet myself in the future so we could discuss how I squandered so much time that could have been spent being a better dad and husband.