Assignment Afghanistan: Commentary

Talk about giving a story time to breathe...

Last night's "Assignment: Afghanistan" ran about 5 minutes. It could have gone much longer, as it was all about the soldiers-- who they are and what they do back here at home. There are some fascinating people serving over there, with amazing stories to tell. Kudos to the powers-that-be here for seeing the value in this and letting me have the freedom to put those stories out there. First, it's- "Sure, Tom, why don't you take off to Afghanistan for a couple of weeks. Here's some money and camera equipment. Wear your body armor. See you when you get back."


Now, it's essentially all the time, resources and behind-the-scenes talent you could ask for to get the job done right. You don't get that everywhere, let me tell you..

Speaking of which- the guys editing these stories are amazing. Steve Scheuer spent a very long day chopping tonight's piece, while I worked on a print story for the Tribune. He and Mike D'Angelo are two of our best and have been relentless about turning the hours and hours of video I shot with my two little camcorders into some pretty compelling television. So thanks, guys. We've got a few more to go.

 

The response to this also continues to amaze. Lots of calls and emails from viewers who have a wide range of views on this war, but unanimous support for the men and women called upon to wage it. God forbid we ever have a popular war..

When they have to go to battle, America and Poland like to go together. It's been that way since the end of the Cold War. There is, of course, a very strong connection between Poland and Chicago. We have a very large and vibrant Polish community here, and tomorrow night's story focuses on the amazing connection that exists even in Afghanistan. Getting to work on that one now. It's gonna be another late night. Doing Roe Conn's show tomorrow afternoon. I love me some Roe Conn.. always enjoy talking to him.. look forward to sharing a few more stories about my two weeks in Afghanistan.