Ok, First some history on me... I am one  of Tehachapis own, but that is probably evident. I joined the U.S. Army in 2004, as an Infantryman. My initial training was conducted at Ft. Benning, GA. From there I went on to be staioned at Ft. Polk, LA. in the 4th brigade of the 10th Mountain Division, 2nd Battalion 30th infantry regiment. I began my service in Charlie Company, "Commandoes" as we were called. I was lucky enough to stay in 2nd squad, 1st platoon for the majority of my time there. I have served as a rifleman, grenadier, and an automatic rifleman.

Last year I deployed for the first time to Afghanistan, where I served for six months... After leaving that bitterly cold place, I returned to Fort Polk for seven months. During my time back I was sent to the scout/sniper section of my battalion, which is where I serve today as a senior scout observer.

In November I deployed to Iraq, which I must say hasnt been as bad as I thought it would be. Sadly I have experienced loss while here, two weeks ago, my friend Sergeant Austin Pratt was shot, and fatally wounded... He was one of our squad leaders in the scout section, and had been my friend since shortly after I came to my unit... He was a good man and a good soldier, a great example that we all looked up to... Every day we miss him greatly...
 
On a happier note, everyone back home has been very supportive, it means so much to me personally recieve letters from you all. I have recieved several, and they really do alot to keep my spirits up, so thank you all for your support, and I will hopefully get to meet many of you when I get home! If at all possible, I intend to update this war journal weekly, its the least I can do for a town thats done so much for me... For now however I need to get back to work, please keep up the letters, if anyone has any questions just ask and I will answer them as best I can, as soon as I can. Again thank you for all your support, and prayers.

Sincerely,
Spc. Matt McCool