Stink? If you guessed stink you would have the correct answer! Good for you!
The water provided to our base comes via a canal. A few days ago some Iraqis started maintenance on the canal upstream from us. As a result of the maintenance, the water dropped below acceptable levels. Initially we were put on restrictions like combat showers (3 min showers) and reduced laundry service. Some people blatantly ignored the rules and took 30 min showers. These individuals should be either flogged, humiliated, or put into the stocks in public.
We were told that they had a contingency plan and that it should resolve the problem in a few days. Unfortunately for us, the plan hasn’t gone into effect yet and the water was at a lower level than they had anticipated. As a result, we no longer have access to the showers nor do we have any laundry service.
I was thinking about doing a two bottle of water shower (one to wash and one to rinse) but they physically nailed a board across the door to each shower unit effectively blocking access to the entire building. I guess they had a feeling that if they didn’t go to extremes that people would cheat the system (as they had before).
So, because I share genetic traits with my father I am prone to sweating. I know that it does not make a difference if I exercise or not - I’m going to stink after a day or two. I decided to not let the water situation deter my daily activities (save for showering) and I went to the gym as planned. I have about 6-7 days of laundry before I start recycling dirty clothes. Lets hope that they get it all squared away before that point in time. Until that happens, people will suffer - and there is little that I can to prevent it.
Oh well - such is life
Unfortunately, it could get worse. If the water levels continue to drop they will block access to the chow halls due to the inability to provide enough water for us to wash our hands. As a result, we will be given MREs (meals ready to eat). They are edible - but, its better than starving.
I just have to remember that there are people at FOBs (forward operating bases) who have no showers or chow halls. Typically, their only hot meal and shower comes when they can visit a major base. I don’t have it bad - I just have it worse than normal.
Tags: Iraq, sweat, water
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