Randy Ridenour

Test - Complete this sentence: The shortest distance between two points is ___________.
I got to the airfield to find out that the flight was canceled. Apparently, there were no other flights available. I’m not disappointed for two reasons. First, I found out yesterday that I would have to go up there in two weeks to [...]

I’m off on a trip for a few days. It’s a lot of traveling, so I appreciate your prayers.

I baptized someone in the 7:00 service this morning. It’s an exciting time in the life of a small congregation, and a good reminder that God continues to work in the lives of people, even here. I have to confess that it was a baptism by sprinkling; a hard thing for a professor at a [...]

Thanksgiving began with a 10K race here at the camp. I finished in 52 minutes. Needless to say, I did not win. I did have a good time, though. We had a special Thanksgiving service at 11:00, which was followed by dinner. The dining facilities were decorated very nicely. Then, it was back to work. [...]

Abraham Lincoln said, “I sincerely wish war was a pleasanter and easier business than it is, but it does not admit of holidays.” We have worked through Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Columbus Day, Veterans Day, and will work through Thanksgiving and Christmas. My last day off was during the four-day pass that we [...]

I know that most of America thinks that we are suffering horribly here. In the interests of full disclosure, I feel that I should reveal that tonight, every Friday evening in fact, is steak and lobster night at one of the dining facilities. The other dining facility has their steak on Wednesdays. There is occasional [...]

It got cold . Now, we have highs in the 80’s and low’s in the 50’s. I guess that’s not so cold, but it is a far cry from the 120’s that we had in the summer.
It’s funny what people do here for fun. I have to admire the Australians. Their building is on one [...]

Veterans Day has come and gone. I attended a very moving ceremony today. Ryan Crocker, the ambassador to Iraq, was the speaker. Generals from Great Britain, Canada, Australia, and the U.S. lay wreaths to commemorate the fallen.
I have conducted many funerals and memorial services of Soldiers since this war began. I remember picking up a [...]

Six months ago today, we reported to Ft. Dix, New Jersey for training. Now we can start counting down! Tomorrow is Veterans Day. People nationwide will remember to thank veterans for their service. This year, remember to also thank their families. The burdens they are asked to carry can be unbearable sometimes. If you happen [...]

Life has been interesting here lately. I’m never quite sure what I can post concerning attacks on the base. So, I’ll just say that I spent part of a recent morning face-down in the dirt having some serious prayer time. Fortunately, there were no serious injuries. I am looking forward to going home where the [...]