Postcard from Afghanistan
Posted December 23, 2009
Hello Norfolk District,
On Nov. 12, I arrived in Afghanistan. I spent five days meeting with many of the Afghan Engineer District staff and going over our shared projects. I also played basketball with Herman Wine and some other nice men.
As resident engineer, I'm responsible for Gardez resident office as well as the project office in Ghazni. Our office consists of 12 staff, construction projects totaling $250 million and 30-plus project sites. Our projects are mostly Afghan national police sites, Afghan border patrol sites, Afghan national army base improvements/expansions and roadwork. We build compounds, wells, offices, support facilities, dining and laundry facilities, a hospital, fire stations, a track and soccer field, a gym...I think you get the picture.
The work here is challenging, rewarding and guaranteed to develop me personally and professionally. My fellow colleagues are determined and dedicated. The accommodations are great; my room is one of the few with a bathroom/shower. I have a gym to work out in and sometimes the weather is nice enough to play basketball. The food in the dining facility is usually good; I really enjoy the made-to-order omelets each morning. I'm confident that I will have fond memories of this experience for many years to come.
Here's wishing every one a safe and wonderful holiday season.
Travis Davidson,
Resident Engineer
Updated: 23-Dec-2009