What a glorious time of the year right now for our WOLFPACK. The snow is completely melted and the birds are beginning to sing. OK, we did not have any snow but if we did, it would be melted. What a nice feeling waking up in the morning seeing the flock of birds flying in formation in the beautiful blue sky as they remind us that spring is arriving. This is the time of the year where our favorite hard ball team (Da Padres if we forgot) are in training camp ready to begin another baseball season. We climbed our halfway hurdle over the deployment hump and now you can begin to see the smiles form upon our warrior's lips as they get nearer each day dreaming of being united with their love ones; but these marines and sailors are more focused than ever. Our mission is not complete and our men know the reason why they are out here and they will continue to perform as the true professionals they are. They have conquered the first half of our seven month stint as true warriors and proud members of Da PACK. You would be so proud of your marine and sailor if you had an opportunity to witness their loyalty day after day function as a well oiled machine. It is not an easy life for our men as they endure the raining season of the desert, trampling around with a pound of mud on each foot, living in conditions that a mere mortal would shed tears; but to a member of the WOLFPACK, it just brings a grin to their face. They might not earn that much money, they might not be able to afford that luxurious yacht that the elite might sail in, but they would never trade what they have in for the bond that is formed with these men. They will be brothers to the day God calls them home to the promise land.
Our Blackfoot platoon marines and sailors out on the 31st MEU are doing a tremendous job. We might be thousands of miles away geographically, be we are still connected. They are sailing out on Mother Nature's seas representing the 3LAR and are doing an awesome job. Our remained behind unit is holding up the fort until we are all reunited as a family once again. The WOLFPACK's job and missions are never done, but it is what we live for. It is an honor for our men to wear the title of Da PACK.
In many of our Christian faiths, this is a month when we celebrate the season of Lent. This is a time of year where we internally look into our lives and see how we can change ourselves to become a better person in God's eyes. It is a time when we reflect, when we offer a sacrifice to improve who we are, who we love and how we can get closer to our God and faith. It is a perfect time for our men out in the desert to reflect on what is really important in their lives. It is amazing how one can live with and without and still achieve happiness. Our marines and sailors do not take luxuries for granted. A simple hot shower and a nice meal is a blessing from God after a few days and weeks in the desert. It has been chilly for our marines and sailors, it has been wet and muddy for them, and at times it has been extremely miserable; but they wear the uniform of our countries finest, and they wear it proudly. During this season of Lent I ask that you continue to pray for the WOLFPACK as we continue to pray for you.
In conclusion, as heads are being laid upon pillows at home during the night, as our little ones are dreaming of their hero to return from a long journey to welcome them into a warm loving embrace, our country enjoys the freedom and liberty because of the countless hours; days of dedication that these men endure. They are the best that this and other nations have to offer, and they know it. This is what motivates these warriors, this is what energizes them, this is what they live for. As we say in Da Corps; "Da PACK is living the dream". May God continue to grace our battalion and all our love ones with His unconditional love.
Peace,
Chaplain Keener