Some of these FOBs are nicer than others, and the degree of amenities varies considerably from site to site. A Forward Surgical Team (FST) site may be a mere 100 meters or less from the perimeter fence. Typically, I stay in Distinguished Visitor's housing, however, dependent on the location, that is often a bunk bed or cot in a crowded tent.

I must share with you our modes of travel. I have never been a fan of Southwest Airlines' free-for-all seating, regardless the price break, and admittedly, I too was inconvenienced to arrive at an airport two hours prior to a domestic flight to make it thru the increased airport security. Well, two hours isn't so much of an inconvenience compared to flying around Afghanistan.

A carryon bag has an entirely new meaning with 45 pounds of body armor and weapons inside. The important point is that we are safe, which is quite a feat given the enemy is looking for every opportunity to shoot us out of the sky.

I am hoping that my experience over here has helped me develop some patience. Here in Afghanistan, we have to arrive at the terminal three hours prior to our flights. And even then, we often get bumped off the flights for higher priority travelers, or the flight is cancelled altogether because of the security situation in the particular area of the war zone.

I can't wait to get home and just slip out of my shoes and walk through a metal detector. I did have to go thru a metal detector in Kabul and it took about 10 minutes to unload all of my weapons, metal objects, etc., and then, ironically, reload on the other side of the metal detector before boarding the aircraft. Sometimes you just wonder why.

Enjoy Veteran's Day - we are!