The following is the rest of my interview with Jake Rademacher:

Sidebar: We started talking about the differences between Iraq and Afghanistan and how stable Iraq has become. I expressed concern about my sons going to Afghanistan, and here’s what Jake had to say…

Jake: Iraq? Iraq is so stable right now. What you see are just the few insurgents blowing sh*t up. Here’s something for you. The Iraqis are not emigrating to the US nearly as much as before because their economy is now perceived to be in better shape that ours.

Me: Wow! That’s an eye-opener.

We also started talking about Ft. Bragg and my son going to Afghanistan

Me: Yes, my sons are headed to Bragg shortly.

Jake: With the 82nd?

Me: Yes, they both graduated from ROTC last May and have been finishing up their continued training since they were commissioned and are headed to Bragg within the next several weeks. My son, Matt, next week, and my son, Sean, when he finishes Ranger School.

Jake: Wow, that is really cool. Isaac did Ranger training.

Me: Yes, I know, I saw the patch on his uniform in the movie.  Read more...