I didn't have time to write, so I'm filling this in.

Racial Harmony Day, or in our case, Racial Harmony Morning, was a rather welcomed break from the routine. There were four activities and four prizes that were given away for the winners of those activities. Jaguar Company, I'm pleased to say, won two out of four. The third of which we lost because the competition decided to cheat and ask a commander to participate.

But we are in no way bitter, because winner half the prizes is a big enough boost. Especially since the prizes are food items. Even the commanders were happy, gave us a little extra free time.

Of course, it was free time that we (were expected to) utlized to practise our Rifle Technical Handling test.

Friends, I tell you now, you have NO idea how difficult or nerve-wracking it is trying to load 20 rounds into an M16 magazine in other 50 seconds. But I managed in the end, after many tries and much cursing.

Overall, we didn't do too bad. I almost made a few grave errors, but managed to correct myself in time. It had more to do with being nervous about the word "test" than any actual unfamiliarity with the procedure.

Bad News. Actually, VERY bad news. It seems that I assumed too much when I promised to be back for Christmas. As my Platoon Sergeant kindly told me, in the SAF it is "Highly Unlikely". Because as a Trainee, whether in Command School or in a unit, I will not be allowed to clear leave. (So whoever read this, please leave a comment about when, aside from Christmas, you'll be back in Hong Kong).

Guess I'll have to settle for the week in September.

The parents seem to be under the impression that I should continue my studies over my weekends. In BMT. My mom even going so far as suggesting that I should be memorizing my Spanish.

I can tell you in no uncertain terms that I am NOT going to do that. I have little enough time as it is and I will NOT unhinge my rather fragile sanity by burning away the only relaxation time I have left on that infernal language. Or any other subject for that matter.

If they want me to study, they find a way to get me out of the army and into college. I assure you, I would like NOTHING more than that.
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Just as a post note to all of you. I will be in Field Camp next week, as you probably know by now. So I won't be updating until two weeks from now. Wish me luck.

-REC Marcus Sun
BMTC 1 J Company
July 22, 2007