At the moment what is it like to be an Infantryman in Afghanistan?

Right now depending on where you are it’s Cold, snowy in the Central-North and East; cold and at times wet in the West and cold and wired in the south. Depending on the location as well(FOB, COP etc) it varies from heights of excitement to lows of boredom. You have all the basic needs and access to Morale lifting activities when not on patrol or guard. In Infantry parlance; it’s where every Infantryman wishes he wasn’t but knows it’s where his training, culture and meaning in the military is defined and for that relishes it. You will never be more challenged, more driven and find better camaraderie and purpose than in combat-Afghanistan or elsewhere. There is no way to truly define what your experience will be; every place and every tour is different. What you should do is prepare to be the best Infantryman you can be so you are your brothers keeper while you are in the fight. Trust your buddies, follow your NCOs and look for inspiration in your Officers. You will be changed by the experience; for the better in most cases. When you return, you will never second guess yourself, nor will others you once you EARN your CIB, have faced the enemy and survived. God Speed Warrior, the prayers of your Brothers in Arms are with you as you go forward; and the memories of those who have gone before you will echo in eternity; as you sound your own trumpet, live the legend and become a part of it in your own way...Victory Favors the Bold!

It’s being deployed. And what’s is being deployed. Sleep deprived, at times hungry, scared, angry, and lonely. So embrace the suck!!!

I was an infantryman in 1975-78 and then switched MOS. It is a great start for a career.