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Continued from page 17 soldiers must also endure extreme heat and Ray reports, “During the summer, temperatures range from 40 to 50C, however, we had temperatures up to 64C for several days. We sleep on our cots on the ground; during the day it is almost impossible to sleep due to the heat.” “This is how we live, work, eat and sleep for nine et us never forget the sacrifices made to protect our future and peace member them. Durham ‘ egional Council 905-668-7711 * 1-800-372-1102 * www.durham.ca days. We then get to the ‘FOB’ (Forward Operating Base) for three days rest before returning to the ‘OP’, he ex- plains. In addition to adjusting to the heat, when the soldiers are on duty they must wear 70-80 Ibs of gear. The heavy Joad and extreme heat is unbearable and accounts for the fact that each soldier goes through up to 20 bottles of water a day. When we asked Ray to explain a typical day, he said there is no such thing as a typical day. He explained when they are serving at an ‘OP’ they are on a 24 hour rotation. “We are on duty for thee hours and off duty for six hours; therefore, we do not go to bed or get up at any set time,” he says. His soldiers responsibility is to observe and report the patterns of life in the nearby villages, and any suspicious movements or activities on the roads. “We have four soldiers on duty at all times — observing in all directions - 24 hours per day to ensure our safety and the safety of other troops and citizens,” he says. Now, with little more than a month unt t the end of his tour, Ray is looking forward seeing his wife San- dra and returning to CFB Camp Petawawa in time for Christmas. They are expecting visits from their daughter Melyssa and her husband Patrick, of Winnipeg, and son Noel of Fredericton. The family are also planning a visit to Prince Albert over the holiday to see his parents, Paul and Tia Wood- roft. Although Ray will be happy to see his tour come to an end soon, he’s very proud to have been able to serve his country and its efforts to bring peace and stability to the Afghan people. And like a true soldier he feels strongly about the mis- sion, citing “much has been achieved, but much remains to be accomplished. By J. Peter Hvidsten Focus on Scugog NEVER FORGET EXXEEEEEEREERR VETS WELCOME. DVA ACCEPTED. House Calls e@rogers.com Port Perry Denture Clinic A COMPLETE DENTURE SERVICE New Full & Partial Dentures Implant Supported Dentures Denture Repairs (While you wait) Tooth Whitening (Bleaching) Mike Dunn DD 6 High St. (Unit 4) Port Perry 905-985 } PORT PERRY ANDJAREA FOR OVER I/4)YEARS 20 FOCUS - NOVEMBER 2010