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Bayeaux Tapestry

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Bayeux Tapestry Experience

World Cultures I
HUM 111
Richard Bucher
Strayer University
February 24, 2015

Dear Mom and Dad,
I have finally made it to Korea. As I sat on the plane for the countless hours of travel, I could hear everyone’s response to my announcement at the dinner table of my decision to join the United States Army. From the, are you losing your mind to what in the world possess you to want to do that. I don’t know if anyone actually understands my reasoning’s for wanting to serve my country. I had prayed and prayed while asking God for guidance in my decision to do this. I have always loved the work of missionaries. You all know that it has always been a passion of mine to help the less fortunate and I truly feel that United States Army would be an excellent place to start. I will be benefiting by serving my country as well as fulfilling a lifelong dream of helping people.
Furthermore, looking on the positive side, joining the Army will be job security. I can learn and train in new skills, have educational benefits to use for school in learning and becoming a better person while gaining long lasting friendship bonds with people from different parts of the country. This is going to be a challenging part of my life that will be beneficial for us all.
I have been here for approximately four months now and the fighting is a never cease battle. We have been working hard in the preparations for the daily battles. We are constantly fixing vehicles, whether boats, trucks, and trailers. It has been an excellent tour. You all would not believe the weapons and ammunition that we go through with a days’ time. We have to have two people assigned daily to maintain the up keep of the weapons to include cleaning and fixing not even to mention the supply chain of the ammunition.
My fighting in this war reminds me of the struggles that William, the conqueror had to go through to prove and gain his power during the Bayeux Tapestry. Being one of only three women here on the battle field we are constantly trying to prove that we as females can hold and stand our ground as the male soldiers are doing. Sometimes I find myself having to be very stern in demanding respect and my place on the battle line.
The uniforms that we are presented and have to be worn are none like the ones we used in the Bayeux Tapestry. The craftsman ship is totally incomparable. I must say that it has a camouflage blend with the trees and brush when we are in the woods. The body armor used by the Norman horseman was a knee-length mail shirt called a hauberk that had three-quarter-length sleeves and was split from hem to fork to facilitate riding. I have had an opportunity to view some old uniforms from the past decades and man how they have drastically changed. I must say for the worst. The durability is none comparing. I like our uniforms for the light weight but the protection from punctures does not compare at all.
This opportunity has exposed me to cultures that I had never thought even existed. This has been the most fascinating experiences I have encountered in my life this far. I see a large difference of the living standards in the United States versus countries that are less fortunate. The climate here is so much better for me except for the dryness. I have taken so many pictures on my stay in Korea. The people that we have met thus far are so thankful and generous for our appearance. Mom I really miss your cooking. We hardly have time to prepare anything or go into town to get some fresh food.
In the first few weeks of my arrival I have witnessed so many lives being taken right in the front of my eyes. It was very sad to see how they had the people living and even afraid to come out side. There are some families that had not been to the market for weeks due to the fear of being killed. Since my arrival I have seen more movement during the day light hours due to the security of the Unites States Army being around.
Oh by the way please tell everyone at the church and your job that we said thank you very much for the care packages. We are definitely enjoying everything in them. The females are very thankful for the shampoo, conditioner and other hair care items.
I will be contacting you back soon. Give everyone my love.
Sincerely,
Your loving and sweet daughter,

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