Gypsy Life

Beating the pavement of cyberspace.

2007-03-28T11:42:00.000+03:00

It has been a while since I have last blogged. Been out of Iraq since Oct./Nov. timeframe of last year and have been living in The Netherlands for the past 4 months now, looking for global work oppurtunities with a major transnational to get my foot in the door of international marketing. Below is my plain text resume for my future employers consideration:

BOBBY R LARON

EXPERIENCE
10/30/2005 – 11/09/2006, 60+ Hours per Week, Public Affairs Specialist/NCO, 124th MPAD – Combined Press Information Center, MNF-Iraq (PAO). Serve as a Public Affairs Specialist for Multi-National Force-Iraq. Provide public affairs support to local and international press aiding in the strategic communication goals of Multi-National Force Iraq. Provide command information to key stakeholders on the official MNFI website. Assist in practical and administrative support for the MNFI spokesman and staff in presenting press conferences to international and local media. Aided in coordinating and implementing transportation of all media within the International Zone. Evaluate candidate qualifications for press credentialing procedures via biometric screening of all non-US media.

11/18/2003 – 03/15/05, 64 Hours per Week, Management Assistant, Enterprise Rent-A-Car. Market to local business partners helping to build and maintain solid and long-lasting relationships with key decision makers. Provide inventory control to manage and control a fleet of 120 vehicles in the most efficient and effective manner possible. Effectively apply sales techniques to communicate, influence and interact with all types of customers, vendors and co-workers. Increase branch profit generation through analysis of monthly profits and expenditures.

12/12/2002 – 12/23/2003, 50 Hours per Week, Broadcast Manager, American Forces Network-Korea – Taegu Affiliate. Direct all aspects of daily operations including newscast development, broadcast tasking management and 24 hour in-depth coverage for a 22,000 square kilometer area. Built successful junior reporter training operation from the ground up. Provided a wide range of methods for a more efficient news production with higher standards. Earned reputation as a trusted advisor offering solutions through knowledge of human resources and broadcast tools. Provide ongoing public affairs support for a major international organization.

EDUCATION
BA, History, Eastern Washington University, Cheney, WA, 99004, March 05.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
SPECIALIZED TRAINING
Advanced Electronic Journalism, May 02, 40 hours; Basic Broadcaster Coarse, Jul 00, 9 weeks; Basic Wildland Firefighter Coarse, Jun 01, 40 hours; Underwater Helicopter Egress Training Coarse, Sep 02, 1 Week.

LICENSES/CERTIFICATES/AWARDS/OTHER INFORMATION
MOS Qualified 46R2o Broadcast Journalist; May 04 Enterprise Rent-A-Car Group 32 MVP Award; Television News Story of the Quarter - 1st QTR FY 2003; Joint Service Achievement Medal; Army Achievement Medal (3rd award); Joint Meritorious Unit Award; National Defense Service Medal; Global War On Terrorism Service Medal; Korea Defense Service Medal; Iraq Campaign Medal; Army Service Ribbon; Overseas Service Ribbon (2nd award); Armed Forces Reserve Medal w/ M Device; American Legion; Sep 96 Rotary International Exchange Student to Finland (1 year)

Send a little rain my way...

2006-05-30T18:16:00.000+04:00

As the temperature rises so does my temper and temperament with what I do for the Army. My newest and most mundane tasking now is to creditial and bio-metric all media coming through Iraq, with the help of only one fellow soldier. We get it done, don't get me wrong...but there is a systemic problem with the amount of need and the amount of quality work we are able to feasibly complete in a workday and when the burden isn't shared equitably throughout the unit...Bitterness builds. I usually keep it all to myself because nobody wants to hear another complaint in this unit. Many grips are unfounded and so the ones that matter go unheard in the great white noise of intent and reality. Know what I mean? Wish I could get more specific but you never know who is reading. Could be the enemy at the gates or within. Anyway, the picture is of me in Qatar on my 4 day pass. Food tent int the background, yummy kabab and Persian Gulf if you were looking through my eyes at the camera. All the best to all my best....Bobby

the goings on...

2006-04-23T01:19:00.000+04:00

I have not posted in a while though I have often thought about doing so and wonder if that should count toward the effort? No? Okay, well...I'm currently reading "Smilla's Sense of Snow" and wonder if there are any Danes or Greenlanders who can fill me in on the rift if any between the two cultures? Just for my own curiosity. Very soon, I will travel to Qatar for my 4 day break away from this place. I will definitely make everyone aware how it goes, though one word keeps coming to mind over and over and that word is -- peaceful! Nearly done with this temporary graveyard duty and it will be nice to see the light of day again, I wasn't meant to be a vampire at work. Though I do love playing at night. My 27th birthday is on the 26th of this month and I couldn't care less. I could truly stop the aging process now and be happy with it...but time marches on doesn't it. Oh, finally....Iraq's current prime minister has decided to step aside and make room for a unity government to form. I'm so excited, not! I wish we could go back to the good old days when wars were just meant for the warfighters. Alas, the world we live in is flawed. Lin, thank you for the beautiful watch!

Changes are good

2006-03-29T21:04:00.000+03:00

I'll be moving to a different working schedule again and I like this fact. Every time there is a change in my daily routine over here, I feel like one portion of my tour is done and I am about to begin another. It helps to break down the year here into easily digestible pieces that are a lot easier to swallow. I haven't been keeping up much with this blog which is quite a shame for me in the long run as it is my only true journal that I have been keeping while here. Much of my days are similar to the days before that and so I can get stuck into a routine in which I don't fully appreciate all that is happening around me. All I can say is that I will try and do better. That is all any of us can do. As some of you may know Lin will study for her LLM in Air and Space Law and there is a conference held at The Hague next month celebrating the 20th Anniversary of the International Institute of Air and Space Law. I would really love to take her there if I wasn't here. Sounds quite interesting and of coarse informative for her as far as 'being in the know' goes. If any browsers happen to make it there. I would love to hear what you thought of it.

Anticipation

2006-03-21T21:00:00.000+03:00

I eagerly await the news that will inform me of my future--have I been accepted for graduate studies at Leiden university, my first and only choice? A life of change now stratifies even further with the events of the near past and future. Ordered to Iraq, moving to Europe for advanced degree work, committed relationship with a foreigner, and of coarse becoming an uncle! These changes, to name a few. How each has shaped my perception of my world is still being uncovered. Immense excitement follows impatience too, for instance: finish my tour of duty, move into my apartment over the canal, begin my coarse work, spend quality time uncovering who Lin truly is, and hold my niece in my hands. Everything is in a holding pattern and yet also slowly approaching. It is hard to know what to do with this time. My mission is important to the war effort. I have to believe this, yet I feel no real ownership to it. It is a real set of conflicts for me to be 27 next month and have done all I've done in my life thus far and to not be able to feel of use here. I'm a lowly cog in the machine yet if given a chance to do more, I'm not sure where my talents would be best put to use in this man's army. I just wish I had been called to do this when I was younger and "in the mood" for military life. I've moved so far beyond the limits of lower enlisted mentality that I almost feel insulted when people refer to me by my rank. How dare you call me Specialist, what did I do to you. I've resigned myself to doing what I'm told and escaping into the gym and the written word during my free moments.

The Sun Never Sets on the LaRon Empire

2006-03-11T14:47:00.000+03:00

Okay, maybe the quote in my title is a bit over the top but it does set the tone of how I feel here at times. This isn't a reminiscent of glory days as that of the British Empire in the 18th century but rather perhaps deep thoughts of events which lead me to this place. More aptly titled should read "The Sun Sets Upon Rome's demise." Anyway, I couldn't leave Iraq without this testament to my ever loving quest for the perfect memento or souvenir.

(Photo by: James J. Lee, Army Times Photo journalist)

Work out schedule and supplements...

2006-03-09T09:52:00.000+03:00

Well, I figured I was in prison so I might as well work out like a prisoner. My new gym schedule is as follows:
Monday- Warm up Cardio/Back/Bi's/Abs
Tuesday- Warm up Cardio/Cardio Fat Burn Work out/Abs
Wednesday- Warm up Cardio/Chest/Tri's/Abs
Thursday- Warm up Cardio/Cardio Fat Burn Work out/Abs
Friday- Fore Arms/Legs/Shoulders/Abs
Saturday- Sports Activity/Abs
Sunday- OFF
The supplements I'm taking are as follows:
1)VY TECH's 17HD Pro-Testosterone Amplifier
2) Xyience's NOX-CG3 Creatin
3) Humagro-Homeopathic growth hormone
4) 100% Whey Protein
Besides that I take...garlic, cod liver oil, daily restore multi-vitamin pack, Calcium, Metab-O-Fx, and lots of water.
I'm also keeping a log of each work out to track my process. I don't necessarily want to lose any weight more that rearrange things:), even though I lost 5 lbs. already in a week's time.
Wish me luck...B

Enjoying a challenge.

2006-03-02T15:31:00.000+03:00

Sgt. Snyder is on his four day pass and that leaves the monster's share of MNF-I web work to me. I have really enjoyed the past few weeks learning and becoming familiar with systems and programs that will benefit me in a very real way in the future. The strength of my background has always been more literary than technical and to enhance these skills will only, I feel, make me more marketable in the workforce of the future.
Jackie and I are better than ever and it feels so good to share every thought with her. I'm excited because recently we talked about her sharing with me her autobiography which will be a fascinating read for me. I've always wanted to see through the minds eye the uniqueness of different cultures. No better place are these differences noted than in the innocence of childhood before one becomes too jaded by the word and subscribes to the Coca-Cola generation culture wash--the evils of internationalization!

Light at the end of the tunnel.

2006-02-26T15:39:00.000+03:00

R and R is finally decided upon. I thought it was earlier but now I'm setting it in stone. I'm going to be going to Margarita Island off the North coast of Venezuela with Calvert, (an Army buddy of mine), as well as his mom and dad and of coarse my girl Lin. I've never had a proper vacation before where the only thing to do for me is relax the entire time. Lord knows I'll need in by August which is when I plan on taking it. I can't wait. Calvert and I talk about all the things we want to do while there--including a trip to Angel Falls, one of the seven natural wonders of the world. It is a good way to keep morale up when I think about how much fun Lin and I will have there. Sorry to all my good buddies in Taiwan but I needed total relaxation time and wanted a chance to spend time solely with Lin since we will be living together in Leiden! Things on the work front haven't really changed in a while. Still doing a lot of work with the MNF-I website and everyday seems to be like Groundhog's day...same but slightly different everyday. I changed my primary email address to Gmail after 10 years with hotmail. Weaning myself off of my Microsoft dependency slowly but surely.
Civil strife in Baghdad is unsettling but I see the mission in Iraq remaining the same if not the optempo increasing and decreasing in the ebb and flow of such events.

Memoirs of a Geisha

2006-02-21T15:53:00.000+03:00

This was a really great read for those of you, like me, who love historical fiction. My girl Jackie sent it to me and I found out that she knows my tastes quite well. Here is a brief summary regarding the book.
"Speaking to us with the wisdom of age and in a voice at once haunting and startlingly immediate, Nitta Sayuri tells the story of her life as a geisha. It begins in a poor fishing village in 1929, when, as a nine-year-old girl with unusual blue-gray eyes, she is taken from her home and sold into slavery to a renowned geisha house. We witness her transformation as she learns the rigorous arts of the geisha: dance and music; wearing kimono, elaborate makeup, and hair; pouring sake to reveal just a touch of inner wrist; competing with a jealous rival for men's solicitude and the money that goes with it. "
Enjoy!

False Bravado or "Living the Dream"

2006-02-18T14:31:00.000+03:00

A friend of mine once said that if there wasn't false motivation in the Army there would be none at all. I'm not sure if I completely agree with that but it does have a lot to do with the dynamics of your unit. When asked how his day is going, my roommate often replies that he is, "Living the Dream" or "Every paychecks a fortune" or "Every meal is a feast." Regardless of whether he means it or not it does put a smile on my face no matter how briefly lived.

Right up my alley, no?

2006-02-14T19:13:00.000+03:00

MSc in Public Administration:Public Administration and Public Affairs

Faculty of Social and Behavioural Sciences

This Master programme concentrates on theoretical and practical questions concerning organisation and management of the public sector. It explores themes such as institutions and institutional change, interest groups and government, the normative basis of administration, civil service systems in comparative perspective, local and regional government, and crisis management. The core curriculum prepares students to follow their own interests and specialise in themes offered in seminars such as administration in non-western societies, crisis management or strategic management.

**passage taken from Leiden Univ. webpage**

为我的女孩

2006-02-11T20:42:00.000+03:00

正如你们所知或不也许, 我的女朋友林Wang 是 Taiwanese 。为有张贴完全地致力对她, 我要这个岗位是用中文。我知道she'll 能够读它! I've 继续今天火车是一个候补网站站长为
http://www.mnf-iraq.com/ 应该是有趣, 不过许多学会在我的部分。
所有最佳, 警察

Had to do it.

2006-02-09T06:09:00.000+03:00

My last military fade was such a butch job that I had to go back to basics. It's okay though because it is already getting warmer here and it's only February.

Another Interesting Meet

2006-02-09T05:49:00.000+03:00

Well, I have had the privilege of meeting yet another person who helps to shape our national dialogue. Meeting Laura Ingraham was a delight. We didn't talk much but she sparked my interest to look into more conservative outlets, not only in media but also in the politicking game. Not much more of interest to share at this time. Of coarse I'm looking forward to going on RnR back to Taiwan to see my girl and buddies....Other than that, everyone please be safe out there.

He makes a valid point.

2006-02-07T00:54:00.000+03:00

I agree with LTC Repya. We continue to ignore hard lessons already learned. Why?

Subject: I'm Tired
Two weeks ago, as I was starting my sixth month of duty in Iraq, I was forced to return to the USA for surgery for an injury I sustained prior to my deployment. With luck, I'll return to Iraq in January to finish my tour. I left Baghdad and a war that has every indication that we are winning, to return to a demoralized country much like the one I returned to in 1971 after my tour in Vietnam. Maybe it's because I'll turn 60 years old in just four months, but I'm tired: I'm tired of spineless politicians, both Democrat and Republican who lack the courage, fortitude, and character to see these difficult tasks through. I'm tired of the hypocrisy of politicians who want to rewrite history when the going gets tough. I'm tired of the disingenuous clamor from those that claim they 'Support the Troops' by wanting them to 'Cut and Run' before victory is achieved. I'm tired of a mainstream media that can only focus on car bombs and casualty reports because they are too afraid to leave the safety of their hotels to report on the courage and success our brave men and women are having on the battlefield. I'm tired that so many American's think you can rebuild a dictatorship into a democracy overnight. I'm tired that so many ignore the bravery of the Iraqi people to go to the voting booth and freely elect a Constitution and soon a permanent Parliament. I'm tired of anti-war protesters showing up at the funerals of our fallen soldiers. A family who's loved ones gave their life in a just and noble cause, only to be cruelly tormented on the funeral day by cowardly protesters is beyond shameful. I'm tired that my generation, the Baby Boom - Vietnam generation, who have such a weak backbone that they can't stomach seeing the difficult tasks through to victory. I'm tired that some are more concerned about the treatment of captives than they are the slaughter and beheading of our citizens and allies. I'm tired that when we find mass graves it is seldom reported by the press, but mistreat a prisoner and it is front page news. Mostly, I'm tired that the people of this great nation didn't learn from history that there is no substitute for Victory.

Sincerely,
Joe Repya
Lieutenant Colonel
U. S. Army
101st Airborne Division

It Is No Mona Lisa.

2006-02-04T05:37:00.000+03:00

"Putting the blinders on," would be an understatement for this piece of art taken by a co-worker in one of Saddam's former buildings. Looking closely, you can see highly motivated Iraqi soldiers bringing the battle to the 'enemy'. I wonder who actually believed what they saw when looking into the brush strokes of this artist? At least they depicted our overwhelming military infrastructure in a fair light.

Idle hands are the Devil's playground...

2006-02-01T01:07:00.000+03:00

As some may know from reading previous posts, one of my new duties has been to create our unit's newsletter, "The Hog's Breath." It was worthwhile for me because I'm learning a new layout program--Adobe InDesign CS2...could be of use in the civilian world. Besides that, the 1SG has tasked me to become the unit's historian...possibly because he knows history was my major or perhaps because he feels I havn't enough to do. Either way, it works for me. I like unique projects and working through differing problems till resolution. Speaking of history, this picture depicts the devil's playground indeed. Notice the netting filled with Iranian helmets from previous wars with Iraq. Strange feelings looking at such war trophies.

Narrowing the field of play.

2006-01-29T06:53:00.000+03:00

I've decided on a school in Holland. The University of Leiden near the coast of the North Sea...about 15min. commuter train ride South of Amsterdamn. The school is one of the oldest in Europe with foundation in the 1500's. I want to get an MSc. in Public Administration and Public Affairs. I won't make term this year because of Iraq but contacted the Dutch Embassy here via email and hope they have some suggestions for living and working there before next years term. We shall see.

Filling an Obligation--that's it.

2006-01-25T02:02:00.000+03:00

I know that many of my family and friends read my blog, this isn't meant to make you worry any more than you already do. I just want to make a couple things clear in case anything ever were to happen to me over here. First, I am proud to be part of the greatest fighting force on earth. I love my country. I am a patriot in my own way. But please don't let anybody think that I am here because I feel this war was the right path for us as a nation. I'm just doing the duty I was obliged to do. That is it. Nothing more. I signed a contract back in 97' to help pay for university and this is the price I pay. I was and am proud to have done my part for the US. I do not agree with regime change as a national policy however. Kill all the terrorists for what they did and are doing...that I agree with. Every last one must die. But to come into a country and change the government? No. Where do we stop? Why here and not there? Too much money and too many lives and too many making a profit off of others' hard work. In no uncertain terms, I oppose this war. Yet, I'm here fulfilling my mission. That is my duty, nobody else's. Support our warfighters with all your heart but don't put your head in the sand...ask yourself the tough questions. Don't 'follow' the debates, shape them. I'll get off of my soapbox now...just remember. I don't want to hear SPC LaRon was glad to be serving his country blah, blah, blah....BS for me. I'm here because I was ordered to be here and I follow the rule of law. Unlike many in this country but that is another story all together. Best wishes, Bobby

Can this be 'normal'?

2006-01-24T05:31:00.000+03:00

It is amazing how fast situations in your life can become 'normal' or usual. The way I drive a humvee or an up-armored SUV around the International Zone, through checkpoints. Putting on all my protective equipment. Listening to random gunfire. Thinking a mortar landing close enough to hear, sometimes close enough to feel and thinking...oh, that was a doozie or...eh, no big deal. To think...only 3 months ago I was busy teaching phonics to little Taiwanese kiddies or conversational English with business men in Taipei. What a difference a day makes. What will tomorrow bring?

6 in the morning

2006-01-21T05:52:00.000+03:00

I'm on my third day doing the graveyard shift (2200-0800). I'm covering for a battle buddy that is on leave. I can't get use to this, my brain just shuts down and I am useless at anything productive. I usually work the swing from 1200-2200 and my body is still use to those hours. Regarding previous posts that were waiting on pictures, I don't think they will ever get them while I'm here in Iraq. My connection is too slow and it isn't happening. It is a shame but I will keep trying every now and again. I'm using my free time to search for Marketing career oppurtunities in either Europe or Asia. Honestly, I'm keen on wherever I can find a place to be of use and valued. I've been studying some Dutch through Rossetta Stone online and it is a really great program. I've already picked up and committed to memory some basic vocabulary. I just hope I can find work in the Netherlands. I had a very disturbing nightmare last night which involved a bridge being mortared and me fleeing rushing water. Gets a bit more crazy then that but not meant to be shared with the world really. I've been having a lot of dreams I'd care not to have recently and so has my buddy that shares the room. Don't know why but I have my guesses. I've been pretty lucky in being able to stay in touch with those closest to me. I hope to continue to do this throughout the year. My main goal from being here is to learn from my surroundings anything I can and to make it home (wherever home is for me by then) with sound body and mind. Other than that...to develope my next professional move. Anyone with ideas or an 'in' with a international marketing company in search of some raw talent. Contact me please. Cheers...BRL

Drum Roll Please!!!

2006-01-14T20:45:00.000+03:00

It is my extreme pleasure to introduce to everybody my baby neice Sophia Reina LaRon. I wish I could be there with you two, Sky and Hiromi. I love your family so much. Thank you for sharing this picture of your daughter with me and brightening up my week here in Baghdad!!

Life born into love.

2006-01-14T00:29:00.000+03:00

My neice Sophia Reina has just entered the world barely yesterday now and is a healthy baby girl with nothing to do but lay her heavy head on proud papa's chest. I wish I could be there with the two of you and see my little girl. She is such a welcomed addittion to both families and I am so excited to be her Uncle Bobby. This day was a real happy one for me in Iraq. What a blessing to all.

British Sterling 9mm machine gun pistol aka "Greasegun"

2006-01-13T00:13:00.000+03:00

I was told that a similar version was used in British trench warfare in the Second world war, this little bugger was a last line of defense for an overrun trench. It lays down a fully automatic spray of 9mm ball rounds. I fired it using a 30 round double fed magazine and quite enjoyed its strong desire to pull up and right as you fire but the ease at which you could keep her steady. Range days are important in and of themselves but when you are able to become familiar with unusual weapons such as this it brings a sense of histroy and delight to an otherwise straightforward task. At least thats my feeling on the subject. A little bio on the weapon to follow. Remind me to post the pic of me with it later...if someone would, i'm experiencing problems uploading with blogger.

Sterling 9mm L2A3 Sub-Machine Gun
The L2A3 is the military version of the Mark 4 Sterling sub-machine gun. This gun is a modified variant of the L2A1, which was adopted by the British Army in 1953, and the L2A2 adopted by the British Army in 1955. The L2A3 came into service in 1956. Sterling produced a number of semi-automatic versions used by police and security forces around the world, as well as a silenced version called L3A4. The gun may be fired from the shoulder with the stock extended, or from the hip, with the stock folded under the barrel.
Production: The gun was produced in the United Kingdom between 1953 and 1988. A similar model, named Sub-Machine Gun Carbine 9mm 1A1 is produced under license by Indian Ordnance Factories, Kanphur.
Manufacturers: The L2A3 was manufactured at the Sterling Armament Company at Dagenham, and at the Royal Ordnance Factory at Fazackerley. A similar model was also produced under license by the Canadian Arsenals Limited under the name 9 mm C1 Sub-Machine Gun.
Service: Approximately 90 countries bought the gun in different quantities. Main buyers were Canada (under license), Ghana, India (under license), Libya, Malaysia, Nigeria, Tunisia and some Arabian Gulf states. The L2A3 is no longer in service with the UK armed forces, but the silenced version L3A4 is held as reserve weapon by the British army.
Cartridge: 9 X 19 mm Parabellum
Operation: blowback, selective fire
Feed: magazine
Weight: empty, 2.72 kg (6 pounds)
Length: butt folded, 483 mm (19 inches); butt extended 690mm (27.2 inches)
Barrel length: 198 mm (7.8 inches)
Muzzle velocity: 390 m/s (426 y/s)
Rate of fire: cyclic, 550 rounds/minute
Source: Jane's publications (Infantry Weapons, 1999-2000)

Movement to my new AO

2006-01-12T14:25:00.000+03:00

I've re-located to a different office a different desk and a different hooch...all is well with said moves. My situation is improving and I am being recognized as being able to handle more and more roles of responsiblity. I'm glad this is so and look forward to "being of use" as Toby says in "The Cider House" rules. My mamma sent me a hardcopy of David McCullough's pulitzer prize winning work entitled, "1776." I look forward to the read. Jackie and I are keeping in better touch now that I have figured out how to make use of different phones around where I live and work...so that is great for both of us. Also, if anybody has found DSN numbers for Taiwan, please forward them on to me as I can make MWR calls via these lines.

The Hog's Breath

2006-01-09T15:18:00.000+03:00

I was tasked to cross-train a bit as a 46Q or Print Journalist with the tasking of putting together our unit's monthly newsletter to family and friends. I will be sure to post my first copy on my blog or at least a link to it. Should be fun, my baby, and I get to run with it with only a few limitations.

Break time!

2006-01-09T12:35:00.000+03:00

Well, it finally happened. Even after my former history in the Army I never started smoking. Now, here, I have. Mostly, I'll have to say it's because having a 'smoke break' is the only authorized break in the Army that you usually can always take. It's like, "Hey SGT/Sir...I'm gonna go smoke." And it's all good....they might even join you. Dumb reason to start but, walk in my boots and tell me what you think then.
(Seperate Note)
I wanted to thank the reader of my blog for the very sweet card she sent and that I appreciate the support and I did tell my unit how much other Americans are routing for us. It was a kind gesture, and I appreciate it. Also, Paula...thank you...I really put everything to use that you sent.
(Seperate Note)
I'm dealing with some gastronomical health issues dealing with my environment...the worst kind. Any home remedy suggestions besides hydration and waiting?

Every meals a feast, every paychecks a fortune.

2006-01-08T19:36:00.000+03:00

Like the title of this post implies. I'm being a bit sarcastic. There seems to be so much false optimism or bravado in the Army. I wish everybody would just mean what they say and say what they mean. I was active duty, now I'm back in and attached to a National Guard unit as most already know. Things are done differently and I'm not picking on the guard. I find this cover of fasade throughout the organization. Why? People put in stressful and dangerous situations react differently. I usually stay quite, don't bitch and do what I'm told. I find it difficult to butt up against something I know isn't working how it should. Why? Don't want to rock the boat and be labeled a trouble maker. It's not like it was before when I was all (hooah) and younger. I just want to get home, away from here and on to bigger and better things in my life. Is this pesimistic sounding already? I'm not trying to go there either. Just batteling with wanting to be of more use and staying safe and getting home. Think I'll just stay the coarse for now.

To all my readers (the few, the proud, the family;)

2006-01-05T14:55:00.000+03:00

OPSEC--That is operational security. I am a public affairs professional in the army and part of my duties include making sure members of the press community do not violate this. So as for me and my blog. No worries...I would never put any pic up that violated this. Just a note to all the would be terrorist thinking they might get info off of me. NOT happening.

Tragically Unhip

2006-01-03T21:19:00.000+03:00

My taste in music is quite varied and usually doesn't go over well if I'm in charge of the DJ booth...hahah. That's just me, what can I say. Like, recently....I downloaded Orson Welles' "War of the Worlds--uncut" very entertaining to me not just for the interesting news blurbs on old radio but for the big band music. Cool stuff. The pic is just recent...taken today. I have placed quite a bit of pictures on a new to me webpage on the internet called ringo.com...Best wishes, BRL

The Real Deal.

2006-01-02T14:15:00.000+03:00

Just kidding, cannot tell all but we'll have some deeper conversations when I return. I'm at work in this picture, helping to prepare and conduct a press conference. I also wanted to thank the family and friends who have sent care packages to me. Everybodies caring thoughts go along way. Getting mail is just the best, makes my day. I love you all. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to all. What have you all done over the holidays...I just worked, so my story is boring but I would love to hear yours.

2005-12-31T22:48:00.000+03:00

Resume--Looking for work in Holland
Bobby LaRon Management/Marketing SpecialistA Management professional with proven multi-tasking abilities: identifying, planning, implementing and developing marketing and sales strategies and systems. Accomplished in training and motivating others to provide a high level of customer service while optimizing team potentials. Believing that good team leadership and a hands-on approach to management brings increased standards and achievement. Now looking to make a continued significant contribution for a company in an international setting, preferably making use of my varied experience.
Areas of Expertise* Broadcast Strategies / development * Staff training / development* Performance appraisals * Teamwork* Organizing events * Computer literacy* Quality audits * Writing plans / reports
Professional DevelopmentBachelor of Arts History (College of Social and Behavioral Sciences, 2005 Eastern Washington University)Certificate Advanced Electronic Journalism (AFN-K Training 2002 Center)Certificate Basic Broadcaster Coarse (Defense Information 2000 School)Other certifications Professional training courses have supplemented my extensive hands-on experience: First Aid, Firefighting, Emergency Escape Planning, Training the Trainer - all commensurate with areas of Expertise.
Professional Experience And Significant AchievementsManagement Assistant 2004-2005Group 32: Southern California Palm Springs Area (http://www.enterprise.com)Market to local business partners helping to build and maintain solid and long-lasting relationships with key business decision makers. Inventory control; help to manage and control a fleet of vehicles in the most efficient and effective manner possible. Sales Techniques; effectively communicate, influence and interact with all types of customers, vendors and co-workers. Profit Generation; increase branch profits through analysis of monthly profits and expenses. MVP Award – Awarded for excellence at 6th month of employment.
Broadcast Manager 2002-2003American Forces Network, Teagu, Republic of Korea (http://afnkorea.net)Direct all aspects of daily operations including newscast development, broadcast tasking management, and 24 hour in-depth coverage for a 22,000 square kilometer area. Built a successful junior reporter training operation from the ground up. Provided a wide range of methods for a more efficient news production with higher standards. Earned reputation as a trusted advisor offering solutions through knowledge of human resources and broadcast tools. Provided ongoing public affairs support for a major international organization. Television News Story of the Quarter - 1st QTR FY 2003.
Media Affairs Specialist 2000-200240th Public Affairs Detachment Ft. Campbell, KY USAHelped to develop and execute information strategies, facilitates media operations and community relations, and conducts public affairs planning and training for the Fort Campbell Community.
Currently: Deployed to Iraq, taught business and conversational English to adults in Taiwan for the previous 6 months.

New Years Eve

2005-12-30T20:27:00.000+03:00

Tomorrow is New Years eve of 06' and I'm sure I'll never forget where I was. I hope everybody toasts the year in good spirits. As for me, no spirits will be available according to General order number 1. But knowing me, I'll make up for it next year. A plan is forming as to where I'll be after this year and it is becoming clearer and clearer to me. I plan on moving to the Netherlands with Jackie. She'll be attending further law studies while I work and begin my MA in International business and Marketing Managment. Unfortunatley, I won't be able to start with the new school year because I probably won't be leaving Iraq until after that time period so my main goal is no find a job in Holland for the time being while waiting for next September. Hard to accomplish when you aren't an EU passport holder. But nothing is impossilbe and if it comes down to it...I may write a letter to the Queen...why not?! I've always gone after what I really wanted and for the longest time I've thought about doing business in Europe. Now I can make it happen, if I play my cards right. Wish me luck as I wish all of you luck in whatever path you follow. Love, B

All dressed up and ready for a night on the town...

2005-12-24T18:19:00.000+03:00

My address in Iraq

2005-12-24T16:06:00.000+03:00

SPC LARON, BOBBY, R.
MNF-I (PAO) CPIC
APO-AE 09316

feel free to send letters, joes love getting real mail and I'm no exception!:)

Meeting the players...

2005-12-15T15:06:00.000+03:00

Unique to my position in the Army is the ability to be in close proximity to some very interesting people. Just yesterday I met Patrick McDonald, the Assistant to the Secretary of State for Washington (my home state). And today I watched the interview with the Iraqi National Security Director. This evening I may meet US Senator Cantwell from Washington as well. All very interesting. I'm still jet lagged though and adjusting to everything. Heard mortar rounds going off today setting of car alarms. I'm amazed when I look around here and actually see where I am. Regardless of anybodies thoughts on the war, I was today a part of history being at least in some way involved with the elections as Iraq works toward a new future. As a former History major, I see the significance of such a happening and I am grateful for the experience.

To all family and friends, I am here and in one piece and I love you.

Safe Arrival to Kuwait

2005-12-12T08:25:00.000+03:00

Hello All,
I've arrived in Kuwait awaiting my journey to Iraq. That is really all I can share about that. On the way here, I was able to sit shotgun up with the pilots of our aircraft for a while and had a lot of fun doing so. I've already experienced many sights, sounds, and smells that are very new to me. A mosque, nomadic tents, vast desert, etc. If anyone knows even a little about me they would know that I enjoy new things. So even under these conditions, I'm glad to see a new part of our world. ( I still can't believe I'm here though, wild....)

2 options emerging and LOVE.

2005-12-03T21:22:00.000+03:00

Two choices are becoming more and more clear to me. For those of you who don't know...being called away from my life in Taiwan has made me take stock of where I would like my career to go. Iraq brings urgency to my thought process. The two options which are rising to the top are 1) earning my MBA at the Swedish School of Economics in Stockholm and then finding an international sales job in Scandinavia and eventually gaining residency status, 2) earning my Masters in Public Affairs from a US university while doing two years of Air Force ROTC and gaining a commission as a Public Affairs Officer in the Air Force, could then retire in 15.5 years. I'm leaning more to the AF but only if I have a good chance of branching Public Affairs....because I would want the experience to do the same type of work for organizations on the outside. Also, good news...after sacrificing so much in Taiwan, losing my apartment deposit, my job, cost of plane tickets, and most important my girl...Jackie...she has decided that we are worth the effort of a long distance relationship. We're in love and I haven't felt this way since....well, if you know, then you know when. Need to have at least a bit of anonymity on this blog. Love my family and friends very much.

The good word?

2005-12-02T21:22:00.000+03:00

Okay, so I now know that I will go to Fort Bliss for the final phase in my train up and to meet up with my unit. (Drum roll...Please...) I'm now with the 124th Public Affairs Detachment which is an asset of the Georgia National Guard. Kinda makes my Army experience go full circle now. I was first in Army ROTC for 3 years at Gonzaga University. Then active duty for 3 years. Then Inactive Ready Reserve for 3 years. Now I'll be in the National Guard for a year and a half. Crazy stuff. But no matter what component, it is all one Army, hooooah!

Commonly used in the Army...at least for me...

2005-11-30T05:00:00.000+03:00

DFAC--Dining Facility
OIF--Operation Iraqii Freedom
FOB--Foward Operating Base
PA--Public Affairs
MPAD--Mobile Public Affairs Det.
MRE--Meal Ready to Eat
OPSEC--Operational Security
ACU--Army Combat Uniform
IBA--Interceptor Body Army
MSR--Main Supply Route
IRR--Individual Ready Reserve
RTUP--Rapid Train Up
CONUS--Continental United States
CRC--Conus Replacement Center
PT--Physical Training
....and the list goes on and on my friends:)

Graduation Day has come.

2005-11-28T07:42:00.000+03:00

Well, still without orders but I do know that graduation will happen tomorrow morning and I look forward to the next step in this process. If only to know more about my immediate future. I get a kick out of this sign...and funny enough...shouting it as well...."Student on Deck"....makes me feel like I'm in the Navy or something. I did get a kick out of the TDY I did aboard the USS Fort McHenry to Vladivostok, Russia. Perhaps my mind harkens back to those days of yore'.

Quite Saturday

2005-11-26T23:48:00.000+03:00

Thanksgiving weekend has been anything but uneventful (yeah, right). I have no problem being alone...but it seems that on the holidays when portions of your family and friends gather without you...you seem to feel the weight of your solitude. I'm use to it but still not okay with it. I have a great Army buddy though and he and I try and keep each other entertained while on this wild experiment called IRR involuntary mobilization. Not so involuntary anymore though. I am now at another crossroads in my life where I can continue on with the military or do this hitch and be finally done with it. Each path offers different payment and rewards and within each there are more decisions to be made. Should I persue a commission? Change services? Re-enlist?....all I know is "wherever I'm at, there I am." :) haha.

Gooood Morning Fort Meade!

2005-11-23T00:55:00.000+03:00

Tomorrow is my final day of broadcaster refresher coarse for the Army. I've enjoyed it but feel old next to all these kids straight from highschool. Soldiers I use to outrank now are E6's. But I've been out and done what I've needed to do so I have no regrets. I'm still wondering how this great adventure will turn out. I have some major decisions to make in my life and I have a year in Iraq to think about them. I'll let you know how it works out....Cheers, Bobby

I'm glad I'm not here anymore...

2005-11-18T02:09:00.000+03:00

This is a look back at my two weeks in the deep South, yuk. Don't like it, never want to live here again.

Full day....

2005-11-17T05:14:00.000+03:00

Back in full swing at the Defense Information School...tomorrow is my final day of my Basic Writing and Announcing Refresher coarse and tomorrow I go into my Radio operations refresher....then Television where I feel I'm most strong. Probably getting a pass for Thanksgiving but need to see if it is possible to visit bro down in GA for that. I'm still not sure where I'm heading off too. Hmmm?? What else, OH! I met Sky's SGM...which was wild...it is becoming so strange how Sky and I are recognized in the Army as each other in different areas of operation. It is really hard to keep up with my friends and family so I hope that you all will check this post often. All the best to all, love, Bobby

Calvert, Adame, and Me...back in the Army now

2005-11-16T06:02:00.000+03:00

After a 3 year absense, the band decided to reunite and are they ever so thrilled about their IRR call up?! Hoooah...

It's T(R)aining in Baltimore...15 miles east:)

2005-11-15T04:48:00.000+03:00

Back to Dinfos (Defense Information School) after 5 years since my last visit here. Feels like a mix between flashback and demented dejavu. First day of training today and it feels really odd. Like I really am back in the Army. Guess I should get use to the idea. Hope to make a visit to GA to see Sky and his family before the big jump East. Lots on my mind but fatigue takes me over first. I'm just glad I have good battles like Calvert and Sanning to keep me going. Army is wonderful how you are able to support one another like no other organization I've been a part of. Cheers all, until another day.

Where is my magnetic north?

2005-11-12T23:48:00.000+03:00

Okay, life once again changes directions from me and I'm now heading to Iraq in an involuntary recall to active duty with the Army. Was an English teacher in Taiwan. Lots of changes but I'm adaptable and have a wonderlust that is never quenched. Looking at the brightside of things.