Alrighty trainees, twas an interesting week. We didnt have a working SIM card/phone number till saturday. So alot of Whatsapp maxxing and find maxxing. But it was still pretty great. On Teusday we had zone conference, which was fire. The Kerrs (the mission president and his wife) are awesome people. The main topic was effective daily and weekly planning. so we did some practical and thoughful discussions on the best ways we can go about it. For lunch we had pasta and salad. the rolls were very good. Meeting all the Elders and Sisters in my zone was cool too. I met one of my friends from high schoo. Elder Levi Birch, he is a year younger than me, but we talked a good amount in the welding shop. It was really great to catch up with him. He got here last transfer, so he is only a month ahead of me. Hopefully we will get to be companions at some point.
The rest of the week was great, knocked doors, walked around markets and the such. Most of the people are pretty nice. We get alot of online refferals from like facebook ads the church runs. Or directly from their website. But not many of them answer our communication attemps. All is well. We had a great lesson with one person who lives real close to us. So that is great. He said he wants his family to join us next time. Because he works nights, and his wife works during the day sometimes its hard, but we have another lesson scheduled. I am really hopeful for him and his family, they are really nice. He has one son who is in his rebellious phase and is doing the usual rebellious teenager things.
I guess it was a pretty mediocre week. But some will be better than others. Such is life. In my personal studies I have read alot and taken notes about Captain Moroni. Throughout his whole life, he fought for the freedom of his brethren. Defended his peoples peace and religion. When he heard of troubles in the kingdom, he took action as soon as possible to defend the righteous from the evil doers who sought to take away their freedom. Was incredibly smart and future oriented. As soon as he had gained victory over the enemy, he never stopped forifying and protecting the cities and people. Constantly fortifying and strengthening our personal testimony and faith in Jesus Christ WILL protect us WHEN the howling storms and tempests blow. One of the verses in the section when Captain Moroni sent a letter to the government, is as follows “Yea behold I do not fear your power nor you authority, but it is my God whom I fear” and later. “Behold, I am Moroni, your cheif captain. I seek not for power but to pull it down. I seek not for honor of the world, but for the glory of my God, and the freedom and welfare of my country.” This man is such a baller.
Have a wonderful week, till we meet again.
Those who seek the fold of Christ will be eager to hear more of his words. That being the Book of Mormon.
Man, time changes are rough. I’m chilling now though.
But anyways, the last few days at the MTC were fun. I lowkey like packing (its more fun when it isnt a punishment haha). I almost missed the bus to the airport becuase my alarm didnt go off at 3 30 AM. Luckily the MTC knows missionaries like sleeping, becuase a security guard opened up my door and said “Is there a Sam Berky in here?” Yea, I was like 40 minutes late. I’ll tell you what though, took me 10 minutes to get ready, and run to the other side of the mtc for my bus. Of which, running was 5 minutes. Yea that was fun. Other than that, travel went well. Flights got delayed, but we had a good layover buffer for them all, so it wasn’t an issue. Got a little bit of sleep on the transatlantic flight to Amsterdam. I wasnt able to get any belgian waffles sadly, as due to previous delays, our flight to England was in like 20 minutes. I dont know why, but the hour flight from Amsterdam to England was way worse than the 9 hour flight. Probably because the seats sucked, and I was motion sick.
We landed and got off the plane, went through customs, then got our bags. I say “our” because there was 6 of us, 2 Sisters and 4 Elders. The Leeds airport is very new, and still under construction, but I was impressed by its efficiency and design. Leaving, we saw some elders and an older guy, walked with them to some vans. Put our luggage in, and then all piled into another van. The rental van had one row of seats facing the normal way, then the seats closer to the front, were facing the rear. I mistakingly chose the rearfacing seat. I was doing my best not to empty what little contents remained in my stomach. I dont know why I was so motion sick, maybe just my inner American being angry with the tea sippers. But alas, we made it to the mission home. Very nice place, chilled for a bit, did some paperwork and orientation. Talked with some folks, did a short interview with the Mission President, Kerr, and his wife. They are cool. Took some pictures. Us 6 from the airport weren’t the only new ones this transfer, they had about 13 other missionaries from the Preston MTC there too. A bus arrived and we loaded all of the luggage on, and made our way to the Leeds Institute, where we had some lunch (sandwiches, 4/10) and then had a small meeting to get introduced to the mission, as well as our trainers. I was one of the last people called up. And was introduced to Elder Olds. He is a pretty cool guy. Has been here for 9 months, the last 5 of which were in the office doing behind the scenes stuff. Like managing flats (apartments) and other various paperwork things that come along with having 176 missionaries. Apparently, when the office got all the intake information, Elder Olds saw my picture and said, “I’m gonna train that guy” so when he got called up everyone was cheering.
That whole introduction sequence was super fun. Afterwards we loaded all of our luggage into different vans. Because we are splitting off into different areas. (duhh) Me and Elder Olds were the first to get dropped off, in Castleford. Our area is the Pontefract area. with surrounding cities. It is quite large. But we have a Sister companionship in our area too, so we have it split up with them. Me and Elder Olds are actually staying in an AirB&B right now. He said its because the flat that they had lined up, fell through at the last minute. So while the new office people try to get another place for us. The AirB&B is alright, in a basement, small, landlord special. But its alright. This area is a newly made district in the mission. So we have no areabook from previous missionaries to work with. So we are doing alot of finding as of now.
Its been great so far. Found a decent amount of people. England is an interesting place. We had our first member meal 2 days ago. It was actually fire, they are from the philipienes and Equador, so they made some tasty grub. they even gave us some watermelon to take back with us. We met with another member in the ward and talked with them for awhile (maybe a little too long) but they were fun. The bus system here is pretty fun. I had to get a card, but the machine didnt spit one out, so now I am out 27 pound (36 bucks (a pair of ball joints)) untill I complain enough to them. They said it would go back into my account. (But an American has skepticism for the cavity connoisseurs) I will probably go back and complain today or tommorow. Because I have no money đ
General conference has been nice, both days were very slow for knocking/prosceliting, since its easter people are like, “I have had enough Jesus for the day, bye!” but all is well. We watched the first sessions at the church with the Sisters. But had to go back home for the second sessions, since it started at 9 pm for us. They were very nice. We had some members join us yesterday at the church for our watch party. One was baptized a couple of months ago, he is cool, had been a smoker his whole life, quit before he was baptized. but he still has the aura to him. But that is okay, Jesus heals the sick and the weary.
Onto the Segment about british food. My first experience was at the institute where we had some sandwiches made for us by some members. they were okay, not very good, but that could have been the motion sickness talking. Sandwiches 4/10. Had some crisps (potato chips), they were decent, nothing mind boggling. 5/10. Other food has been decent. had a chicken sandwich from GREGGS (like a maverick bonfire grill, but dedicated store. Good meal deals) It was pretty good, the crispyness was an 8/10, chicken 5/10 a little dry, and the bun was pretty good 7/10. Overall, I would give it an 7/10. Yesterday I had some Fish and Chips. it was a very good portion size. I did a video review. I’ll attach that. but at first, a 7/10. the Cod was very good. Chips were okay could have used a higher heat on the fryer for a better crisp. After eating about half, I felt like I had just drank a cup of vegtable oil. which is probably true. So I saved the rest for later. Looking back on that experience, its no wonder there are many horizontally challenged people here. Your national dish is frier oil and carbs. I thought we were bad with our soda and burgers, but yikes. But alas. The people are very nice, even if they dont want to hear about Jesus. We have met many athiests, but everytime they are like “sorry I am actually an athiest, but have a great day! Cheers!” It has been interesting to see the different dynamics. While I may speak ill of the stereotypes, I do truly love the people here.
In conference, President Oaks spoke of loving your enemies. When I first got my call to England, I will admit, I was slightly confused. However, I know the Lord has called me to where I am needed most, both for the peoples conversion to Christ, and for my conversion to Christ. And thinking more about being here and the culture that I am in, I know that I will change for the better. Also considering there is a large Muslim population in many cities in England, I know that one of my transfers will likely include such cities. And those truly will be a blessing to me in helping me grow closer to Christ.
The buildings here are very interesting as well. I will talk about it more in my next epistle. I have been reading in my personal study about Captain Moroni and his dealings. Because I figure, If I want to be a good Military Officer, I need to study the greats. It has been going great, I have been notating all of the desicions he had to make, as well as his atributes. Those chapters in Alma really are fascinating.
Well, I shall go henceforth into the days of P, and onward into the forth coming days, preaching and teaching the good word. The Doctrine of Christ. Till we meet again fine chaps! Cheers!
B, (my aunts dog) has been hit, by a mobile of old.
She will be here shortly, when arrived, her canine she gave
We said our goodbyes, and placed her in the grave.
A dedicatory prayer I prayed. Tears were shed, for the young, young babe.
My very first act as an elder. To dig and bless the resting place of the innocent.
Well… that was an interesting first night. But it gets better, such is life.
Home MTC went well, boring being I was sat in front of a screen for hours at a time.
Which isn’t nearly as fun when not playing something. But i got through it. On Tuesday 2 weeks ago I got a call from a sergeant at my battalions S1. (Admin people) saying that my transfer to Inactive National Guard was denied because of a flag on my account. That flag being my height/weight measurements were out of regulation. So I met with them and they taped my waist/weighed me. When i first got the call. I taped myself at 42 Inches. And when the army did it a week later. I was 38.5 inches. But in order to be within regulation at my weight. I needed a waist of 37 Inches. So we set up a time for me to get checked out of the MTC in the morning before classes. And off I went on Wednesday last week to the Provo MTC. And this Monday just went back to the Army guys and got taped again. Right on the dot. 37 inches. So I passed my tape. And got the flag removed from my account. So my paperwork flew up the chain of command. And now on Monday it will be signed. So I can leave for England on Tuesday. I have my travel plans. Just gotta get through it.
I was appointed district leader last week. And it has been busy. But fun. Two of the sisters in my district are now in the sick bay with the flu. But they should be out on Sunday. One elder had to go to the ER one night because of abnormal heart rate for 2 days straight. They said it was just inflammation, and gave him pills. He says his heart rate is down now. But still has some chest pain. Hopefully he will be fine. We gave him a blessing too. We also gave some of the sisters blessing as well. They were just feeling nervous. But that was nice.
Classes have been good. Have learned a lot. Got more to learn. I have some good goals. But I need to write them down somewhere. But I am excited.
We woke up and then drove back to Fort Jackson. Watched Sam graduate from being a Trainee to a Soldier. Then went to a southern food place called Lizardâs Thicket. After eating we dropped off James, Ben, & Jacob at the airport. Then me and Sam went a Trampoline park. Then dropped off Sam at the base. Stupid car A.I. decides to go straight into a traffic jam to get out of the base. But we are smarter. Started the drive to Washington DC and stopped after 2.5 hours to sleep for the night.
LaReita:
Since Sam was Soldier of the Cycle for B Company, we got VIP seats in the middle section. We sat behind all the base leadership. (It also meant we didnât have to get up at 5am to leave, get in line, to get a decent seat in the stands!) When they presented the awards for the Soldier of the Cycle â B company, I wondered how his name would be pronounced. Sure enough, âBerkeleyâ received the award. đ All of us “Berkeley’s” in the stands glanced at each other and smiled. At the end of the graduation ceremony, the families of the awardees were invited to meet with the Commanding General of the Base â General Hood. His short speech also touched on the importance of reaching out to their fellow soldiers if they, or anyone else, was having suicidal thoughts. âYou are now part of a big family who cares about you. We are a team, and we work together as a team to leave no soldier behind.â A grateful, emotional moment for me as a mother, and therapist.
Interesting to note that of the five Soldiers of the Cycle, two of them were members of the church. When I was speaking with Military Relations missionary couple, they said itâs really quite common for one member of the church to be a Soldier of the Cycle. A member of the church (or any church) who knows/shows respect and demonstrates leadership (which includes following rules), makes military life easier for themselves and others.
We had a delightful 3 hour lunch and gab with 2 of Sam’s battle buddies (Hidalgo and Cavazos) and their parents. Then we dropped off brothers (James, Ben, Jacob) at the Columbia, SC airport. Me, Dave, Sam and Ammon went to a trampoline park for just an hour before Sam needed to be back on base. It was fun to see big brother Sam having fun with little brother Ammon. Put them together and what have you got? Sammon!
Next installment: Sept 5-7 America history
* more about the points game if interested:
The main idea is âGo where and when the deals areâ. This was through a particular travel group. About 6 months ago I upped the game and bought into their âLoungeâ to learn more. I was spending about 3-4 hours a day learning and researching about traveling on cash (Rule 1) and points (Rule 2), and how to travel well, cheaply, AND wisely. Clarifying: When I say âcashâ that means purchasing the ticket instead of redeeming your credit card points.
We started driving to the base which was only 10 minutes away. We got there in the overcrowded parking (which we parked on the grass), walked over to the covered stands and sat down. The companies were Alpha, Bravo, Charlie, Delta, & Echo. (200 in each company.) Sam was Soldier of the Cycle for Bravo, and we saw him dressed up as a revolutionary war soldier. They showed all of the types of uniforms over the years. Then the drill instructors threw smoke grenades and all 1,000 soldiers walked out of the trees. (Video here)
We got Sam and went bowling. After that we went to the military museum, and saw all of the historic vehicles. Then we went to a Church luncheon. Dad got a good nap sleeping under the pews re-living his childhood. Drove around the base, got a case of water and went to the PX, which was the grocery store. Then we went to the park and played Presidents. We took him back to his barracks and listened to his Battle Buddies stories: (videos)Â
Sam stayed at base, and we went to a fancy restaurant, called The Hollow. Very good. We got some dessert and celebrated moms 50th birthday. The brothers also surprised her with a box of Godiva chocolate. Went back to the hotel and slept.
LaReita:
It was exciting to see Sam come out in Revolutionary War costume leading out the other soldiers of the past. Major emotions welled up when the smoke bombs were thrown, the field was fully covered in smoke, the music came on, and the companies marched in time through the smoke. It was like watching a movie, but in real time and real life. Powerful. I am truly grateful for our men and women who volunteer to protect us from all enemies, foreign and domestic. This was only 1,000 soldiers and it was a lot of emotion for me. When I think about Helamanâs 2,000 Stripling Warriors, I am truly astounded and overcome with many emotions. Hearing them repeat the soldier’s creed was powerful.
The Family Day program was 30 minutes. The families were then invited to go out on the field and âtap outâ your soldier. All the soldiers stood at attention, looking straight ahead while family members weaved in and out of their soldierâs company of 200. I found Hidalgo (Samâs best friend battle buddy) before I found Sam, but I couldnât tap him out. As I was weaving through Bravo Company, there were a few at-attention-soldiers with tears in their eyes, waiting patiently for their family to arrive. My heart went out to those soldiers who probably didnât have family coming today, or even for graduation day, because they donât have a family, or a supportive family. It is so hard for me to imagine that loneliness and lack of support in doing something as hard as 8 weeks of Basic Combat Training.
I was the last one to get to Sam, and gave him such a big long hug! Tender-hearted Sam was happy-crying. He loved showing us around base. It was great to see how many battle-buddies came up to him to chat. At the church luncheon, an older soldier (50âs) sat with us who is in the Chaplain Corps. He made a plug for joining because they are always in need of Chaplains. I did say at the table that Sam would be a really good Chaplain â heâs kindhearted, a good listener, and friendly. Samâs friend, Hidalgo (a return missionary), said that the therapist tips I mailed to Sam really helped Sam to interact with one particular difficult trainee in their company.
(Though Sam is currently signed up to be horizontal construction – all the heavy operating equipment, CATs, bulldozers, etc)
Regarding being chosen as Soldier of the Cycle for B-company:
Sam says, âitâs not that hard to be a good soldier. Just follow the instructions.â I think being in a High School marching band also helped him learn discipline (and how to march in time – some of his battle buddies struggled with marching in time). One of the Drill Sargeantâs said, âBerkyâs my secret weapon.â
Sam mentioned that fat camp (official term: ARMS 2.0) was harder than Basic Combat Training (BCT). At fat camp they had full-on workouts 3x/day. At BCT it was only once a day, but sometimes there were also ruck marches (marching with full military packs). Sam said he thought BCT would be harder. He later learned that other companies were doing really hard stuff because they could handle it. The trainees in his company were disorganized and undisciplined, so company B drill sargeants couldnât do the more âfun/hardâ soldier stuff. With that perspective of who was in B company, it was easy for a Utah marching band kid to be Soldier of the Cycle for B Company!
It really was a great 50th birthday to experience this parenting pay-off. I also was happy that my boys surprised me with a box of Godiva chocolate. The best!
Dave, Ammon and I are on a World School adventure for September.
Backstory: A year ago I began learning about travel-hacking: strategizing your expenses through the right credit cards and turning those points into âfreeâ travel. *(see more at the end if youâre curious)
I was starting to become concerned that I was spending too much time on this and was becoming obsessed. While vacuuming at the temple late one night, pondering why I was obsessing about this, a clear thought came, âYou are not obsessing. You are being driven.â Well then. Interesting. A couple of weeks later while weeding in my garden, still concerned I was obsessing, and why I was being âdrivenâ, another clear thought, âYou have a very small window.â
Ok then. I am being driven, and have a small window to do some traveling. Letâs go. (We did lots of summer trips, including into the first week of Ammon’s ‘world school’ by going to Alaska.)
A few months ago I had dreamed/planned that in September we would do an Africa trip. When we learned that Samâs Basic Combat Training graduation would be at the beginning of September, I began planning to combine everything into a huge homeschool / world school month for Ammon. I would utilize my new knowledge of traveling.
You can read the daily summary by Ammon, and if you want to read my pontification on the day.
Mostly this is here to keep me and Ammon accountable in doing our homework and journal keeping for this trip!
September 2, 2025 SLC to Charlotte, NC, then to Columbia, SC
We flew into Charlotte NC, got our rental car, started driving down to Columbia, South Carolina. Fort Jackson is in Columbia SC. We stopped at a trucker-stop greasy-spoon âTiffanyâs Dinerâ with southern food. Yum. We stayed at the LaQuinta Inn, in Columbia SC. (LaReita at the LaQuinta â haha.)
