It was a day of togetherness for Crew 61. We shared all three meals together, and each was special: freshly-made pancakes for breakfast, burgers and shakes at Stan's Burger Shack, and the world famous "Crew 61" lasagna for dinner. I have found that good times at the meal table, especially when all are present, really help lift a crew.

We took our water shortage issue into our own hands (with consent from Mission Support); this proactiveness seemed to have a positive effect on the crew, too. And even though the operation was not without risk (hauling thousands of pounds of water over unpaved, winding, bumpy roads and sandy piles) and none of us had even observed a re-supply before, we prepared well and took it one step at a time, and got the job done together. All played a part, and I know when I look back I will consider this to be a highlight of the rotation. I also obtained a keen appreciation for the courageous support Don Foutz provides, who usually does this job, and has done it many, many times, alone, with his own personal vehicle.

Two medals were awarded today, related to the water re-supply mission. The first one went to Marcus, who Elizabeth entrusted with her truck (that has rear-wheel drive only), and who piloted our much-needed, heavy, sloshy payload through the windy, bumpy roads that lead from Hanksville to our Hab in the remote desert. He did an outstanding job!

The next medal went to an unsung hero of our mission; one that we have depended upon again and again without any recognition, until now -- the second medal was awarded to Elizabeth's truck! We've used this truck alot this mission, for provisions, EVA's, etc. And we appreciate how Elizabeth has willingly offered it whenever motorized transporation was needed to make an operation successful.
She says the truck will proudly wear it around it's rear-view mirror.

When I sent the Commander Check-In, I thought we would be able to fit in an EVA, but the hour was late and the winds picked up. We aborted and will now attempt to fit it in with two other planned EVA's tomorrow.

Right now, the crew is starting a video, so I'm going to sign off. We're going to watch it, together.

Be Safe, Have Fun, Get It Done - CREW 61!

Chip Shepherd
Commander, MDRS Crew 61