10-22-05

Well hello again,

I thought I would write and tell everyone how we are doing. As you know, the elections are over and all went well. We spent most of our time patrolling a district called Rashad and all went very well other then a few long days and nights.

I have sent a couple of pictures of the Orofino Boys on some of our patrols of the area. Time is getting very short for us and all of us are very excited to be home. The 101st is all here and mostly our time remaining here will be spent showing our replacements the area and key points of interest. And along with the short time comes all of the award presentations. Most of us would rather pass on the ceremonies and just get our awards but we must allow the Brass their pomp. On the 21st of October 2005, the Orofino Boys were presented with the Combat Action Badge. This is given only to those who have engaged or have been engaged by the enemy under hostile fire! Also soldiers from that area received the Army Commendation Medal. These soldiers include SPC Walker of Weippe, SPC Milburne of Kamiah, SPC West of Orofino, SPC Rickett of Orofino, SPC Ruhle from the Orofino Platoon, SPC Rush of the Orofino Platoon, SPC Powers of Lewiston and SPC Karn from Pierce, SSG Compton of Orofino, SSG Powell of Orofino, SGT Vilensky of Kamiah, as well as many more from the Orofino platoon. All of your men served greatly and deserved the awards they received. We are very proud of them.

As for us coming home, soon, we should be back around mid-November. But I can make no promises. I do look forward to seeing you all again. I miss my home very much. I would also like to thank everyone for their support. The last 18 months would have been almost unbearable if it wasn't for the support from home. I have seen many soldiers with no support! from home. And it is very hard for them. Thank you again and God bless you.

SSG Johnny Powell

Photos: Top--Johnny said he is in the middle of this picture of several of the soldiers in the area. Second--Rashad Market. Below--Rashak sunset. Bottom--Taking five in the shade. (Photos courtesy of SSG Johnny Powell.)