Howdy y'all!

Most of you saw me this past weekend...working as a medic for 183rd RTI.

Just want to clear the air on something....many of you know of my situation & what had happened....no I did not go to Phase 3 as was originally intended.
Yes I was cleared by COL McGrew to attend phase 3 however some other things have come to light. Less than 1 week after I re-enlisted (my ETS from my entire Army contract was 3 days after our December OCS drill) I was informed by then 1LT Elliott that my phase 3 was expired. I was also informed that what was supposed to be a medical release from Alabama turned out to be something more....yes I left there sick & injured but that is not what the paperwork says.

I have since sat down with my chain of command to discuss the matter as well as MJR Worsham.
Things happen for a reason. But who knows maybe I'll return to the program in a few years or maybe just get my nursing degree and go direct. ;o)

That being said....I have spoken with OC Newman and have asked to become an outside adviser for Class 50. Your program has not changed that much in the last 3 years....so I have knowledge I am more than happy to share with the class leadership as well as anyone who cares to listen.

For now the best advice I can give you is simply this "Keep on keeping on." In other words keep doing what you are doing...don't give up...stay strong. Also, keep working as a class...attend all class meetings...and try to work as a team as much as possible.

Good luck next drill....I wont be there next month as a medic, but I will see you all in May. June I deploy to Kuwait.

Anyone who wishes to contact me can do so at the following email addresses:
peter.ballou@us.army.mil
or
skipatrolpete@yahoo.com

Take care

Ballou