Tell me about Niger

[Agbor]

Only thing I heard about the country first hand was a Peace Corps person who was on assignment over there, he was stationed in a village where he was known as "The Blanc" or ask the blanc he knows what to do...( He was black american but
they called all Western foreigners "blanc" which is white in French as the French were their first exposure to Western people.

[Davy-040]

Just curious, do American soldiers have the option to make a list in which countries they never want to work in? or do they need to accept everything?

[gentlearts]

Originally Posted by Davy-040

Just curious, do American soldiers have the option to make a list in which countries they never want to work in? or do they need to accept everything?

Oh, heck no. They go where they are told. They chose what type of units they want to be part of, and unit each has its own purposes and assignments. Wherever their unit goes, they go. For example, the son in question is an adrenalin junkie, so signed up as a Ranger, and is now a Green Beret. Obviously, if you are in a combat unit, you aren't going to Italy or Germany. His mother (me) and his wife would much prefer him to be in a different type of job, but he loves the life.
There are others who sign up for jobs that aren't combat related, so they can avoid the less desireable countries.

[gentlearts]

Originally Posted by Agbor

Only thing I heard about the country first hand was a Peace Corps person who was on assignment over there, he was stationed in a village where he was known as "The Blanc" or ask the blanc he knows what to do...( He was black american but
they called all Western foreigners "blanc" which is white in French as the French were their first exposure to Western people.

Lol. My son is so "blanc" he's practically clear.

[NigerianNightmare]

Originally Posted by James1202

Niger, not Nigeria. They're neighbours.

I was talking about Niger from a Nigerian point of view. People from Niger are called Nigeriens while people from Nigeria are called Nigerians.

[sasie123]

[quote=PBob;45613785]Your son will return with an entirely new perspective on the world. He will realize how good it is at home, and, despite the hardships of less prosperous places, that people can be reasonably happy based on family, friends, community.


I've been to many places (155 countries) and all have redeeming qualities, in the people if the environment offers few. Sometimes we need to change our vision, out outlook to see it. The transition can be frustrating.


Niger is a very uninviting place, but it remains with experiencing.


Thank you to your son for his service and to you, for raising a son willing to serve.


And thank you PBob for being so gracious with your comments. I am not too keen on reps, but you certainly deserve one.....I wish I could give you more. Your 155 countries visits are extremely well-shown in your attitude toward the world....!!!!!