Just to go to the bathroom. Mich. The soldiers hope everything stays peaceful, but all of their preparations have been for war. The result is a limbo of waiting for something they don't want to happen. The Bradley fighting vehicles, armed with 25mm chain guns and an automatic cannon, are manned and waiting for attack from any direction. Mechanized 4.2-inch mortars are positioned and linked by computer to direct fire and approaching enemy.
Guards stand duty around the clock, armed with automatic rifles.
Once the base is established and the area swept for mines, heavier equipment is set to show up, including tanks and mechanized howitzers that can shoot 20 miles. I don't think anyone will try anything with us. Shoots, in charge of coordinating the mortar fire in battle, is on his first active deployment in 13 years with the army. He feels confident he can do a good job and isn't worried about his safety. He knew this deployment was coming.