Good News . . . I don't expire until 2010!

Today was my second attempt to get my military ID renewed, and I'm happy to report that I was successful. It only took me 1 hour and 10 minutes, but I'm good to go until 2010. This time I arrived at 12:15, signed the clipboard,took a seat in the breakroom and waited for my name to be called. Like before, I sat there while people buzzed around me and smiled, but no one ever says "have you been helped?" I guess everyone just assumes everyone is doing their job. This time, I waited 20 minutes before I walked to the door and asked "how long it would be". The guy said "it depends on how many people are ahead of you". Well, there were 3 others ahead of me on the list and the last one signed in 30 minutes ahead of me, and they were still waiting. Hum, not a good sign. I told the guy that I was on my lunch hour and just needed to know about how long it would take. He said "about 30 minutes because the computers were really slow". I don't suppose the operator has anything to do with that. It appears that the attitude is why hurry? that just means I have to do more work. I was finally called in at 12:50 and the guy apologized for the delay. SgtDub had to execute a Power of Attorney so I can file our taxes, and I apparently had to have one today for the ID. I waited for just the right moment to whip it out - he didn't think I had the "proper paperwork", but I fooled him (he he). Apparently with all the new Homeland Security changes, they have to be really cautious about issuing ID cards. The guy verifies all of my information, takes my picture and makes the card. He hands it to me, and I say "when does this one expire?" Oh look, Feb. 27, 2007 -- just like the one I just gave you. Duh! Another 15 minutes, and I'm the proud owner of a plain old ID card. No longer the fancy "active duty" card with all the privileges (not that I use them anyway). Apparently, Dub's MOB date (mobilization) is February, so they're standing firm that he's not active duty after tomorrow. Well see -- I'll bet he's still there and will be for a few more months. SgtDub will be happy to know that I did not make a scene and did not have to be escorted from the building. I exited the parking lot in the right direction and wiggled my way out of the gate. Hopefully, I won't have to do that again anytime soon.