Got a call from Lee a few mornings ago. He was on a battery powered satellite phone at his new position in Helmand.
He had only 10 minutes to talk so things were hurried.
I'll pass things on as best I can.
In June, as you know, he arrived at Camp Leatherneck in Afghanistan. This was the huge staging area with thousands of US and international forces.
On July 2 he was part of the 4,000 Marine invasion into Helmand. For several days he and his unit were based at a compound that was built by and used by the British Marines.
About 3 weeks ago his unit was inserted deeper into Southern Helmand very close to the Pakistan border. That is where he is now.
His remoteness of location means that the only supplies they recieve are air dropped by helicopter. For this reason he has not gotten any mail for several weeks because they generally do not air drop anything except absolute essentials. At times they have had to ration what they have because they ran low on water and food.
He says that he has been involved in fire fights with Taliban. "Making contact" as he put it.
He mentioned a few minor wounds incurred by some of the Marines but nothing serious.
He seemed to be very appreciative of the helicopter gunships that come in when needed and effectively neutralize the bad guys.
He's not sure when he'll be getting mail but he said tube socks that go over the calf are much in demand (he's had to spend time standing in canals apparently, bad on the feet)
Any canned goodies of candy, fruit, meat would be good.
Also, single dollar bills to give to the unit interpreter to go to villages to buy cold drinks or smokes.
Lindy and I just mailed off an 18 pound box full of socks and goodies and because of this writing I just realized I didnt put any dollar bills in it...stupid me.
Hope this info is helpful.
Ike
