Biking has been going well. I've gone out a bunch since school ended, including a ton of night riding. I got kicked off of a fire trail heading into Jacks Valley, by the police; supposedly it's too dangerous to ride back there in the dark? Oh well. Ah yes, just last weekend I was riding, just about dusk, when I went over the handlebars going about 15 miles an hour. My front wheel turned sideways in a rut/root hole, and I went head over heels. I did pull some ninja shit and simultaneously unclipped and rolled sideways, landing only on my shoulder and elbow. I felt pretty stupid, but shook it off and kept going, with a little daze, however.
As I said, summer is here, but I wont be home until July, training must come first. I'm currently at Sheppard Air Force Base, Texas, also known as the muggiest place I've ever been to. The 105 degree temps mixed with the humidity really take a toll, but it's all a trade off. Being at an operational Air Force training base, even for just 2 days so far, has given me an appreciation for how much work every airman truly puts into their jobs. The younger airmen who are still in Tech School have to walk at attention everywhere, and march 2 wide if there is more than 1 person walking. It's interesting to see the similarities and differences between their "Freshmen year" and mine.
My group of 9 people went this morning and spoke to the 1 Star on base, along with the base, Command Chief and a few Master Sergeants, getting the perspective and insight to what the 'real' Air Force is all about. After lunch, we were able to spend a little time at the training facilities with the Airmen, talking with their main leader, Master Sergeant Small, he was huge, and also funny. It seems like the comradery within the training area seemed very positive, which is great to see.
I'm excited for the next two weeks, I'll get to spend time with Security Forces and shoot some guns and I'll get a ride along in a T-38 and spend time in the fighter squadron. We get the weekends off to relax, along with every afternoon to do what ever we want. I plan on working out, along with spending some time at the pool cooling down from the heat. I hope everyone is well, take care.
Matt
