[Mark Howard]

Karl - make it a point not to watch CNN or take much interest in what anyone says about the activity over there unless it comes directly from him. I've deployed to Kandahar twice, once when the activity was relatively low and once when things were "interesting" . We used to laugh at how incorrect the reporting was by the major news channels. Kandahar Airfield is a pretty good installation (considering where it is), well secured, and, unlike other bases in country, well away from populated areas. Facilitiies have gotten better over the years, and I suspect he will come back very physically fit (the gym is the best I've ever seen).

Some things that got me through tough times included mail of the non-electronic type, movies, and books. Send them early and often. Surely he will be busy, but there is alot of down time as well. My wife had a local school class "adopt" me while I was deployed and it was lots of fun sharing my experiences with them via letters and a video conference one time. Big party with the 3rd grade class when I returned.

The Air Force diggs are nice on KAF, better than my Army hooch and I'm a senior officer.

It is likely your daughter will have a tougher time with the separation than he will. We tend to focus on those in harm's was and not on the home front. He will be busy doing exciting things, she will have lots of time thinking about what she is missing. Give her extra attention, it'll make it easier on her.

Finally, be a good FIL, tell him you love him and to enjoy the journey. He will have lots of memories and stories, both good and bad. Listen to all of them when he returns. It's important.

Wishing him a safe return.