• This web site -  I have been toying with the idea of setting up a family web site as a means of keeping in touch with both family and friends who are scattered all over the world.  Our intent is to keep the site updated by posting to the Blog frequently and adding pictures to the Galleries
• Operation Iraqi Freedom - After years of rumor and speculation it is finally confirmed that I will deploy in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.  I will leave in early April and Camp Victory will be my home away from home for 4-12 months.  Camp Victory is between Baghdad International Airport and Downtown Baghdad.  I will be working on the III Corps Staff as the Assistant Secretary of the General Staff.  I'll be responsible for all the General Officers and GO equivalents who visit Baghdad, arranging their itineraries and managing the staff of escort officers. 

The good news is that I will not be alone.  Both Mike and Margaret have already left for Iraq.  Margaret is the Battle Captain for the III Corps Commanding General's personal staff.  She and I will work in the same building.  Mike will only be a few miles north of us working in the G3 shop of the First Cavalry Division.  Hopefully we'll be able to get together every now and then.  As we all leave for SW Asia we are thankful that Matt and Lisa will be here to keep Michelle company.  Lisa works with Michelle and Matt is an Electrical Engineer on Fort Hood.

• My mailing address in Iraq (mail takes 2-4 weeks):
  • CPT BEATTY, DANIEL G.
  • CJTF-7, SGS
  • APO AE 09342-1400
• Margaret's address:
  • CPT VINEYARD, MARGARET H.
  • CJTF-7, COMMAND GROUP
  • APO AE 09342-1400
• Mike's address:
  • CPT VINEYARD, MICHAEL A.
  • HHC, 1CD (G3)
  • APO AE 09344
• New email addresses:

           Dan@bluedogtroop.com

           Michelle@bluedogtroop.com

• The Dogs - To bring you up to speed the Family now consists of two four legged companions, although we were up to three with our foster dog, Moxie, but he found a forever home with Lauren and Derek.  Both our pups were rescued.  We went looking for Whitney our Great Dane in June of 2001 and Toby sort of came looking for us on my birthday in 2002.  Check out their pages to see what's new in the dramatic lives of our furry friends.
  • Plus pictures of Whitney and Toby in a field of Texas Blue Bonnets!