Greetings, Freedom Riders,
I hope you have ALL been well during my time away. At the time of this reading, I will have already made it safely home from my deployment and settled into my regular work routine in Hawthorne, Nevada. I wanted to share with you my Overall experience while in Kuwait. After taking some much-needed time off upon my return I hope to be back on a regular schedule with move exciting adventures to add to my Blog moving forward into 2026. For now, I hope you enjoy this recap of my 9-month adventure.
As I bid farewell to these past nine months, I find myself deeply moved and reflective on the myriad experiences I’ve encountered while supporting our troops. This journey has not only allowed me to reconnect with familiar faces from my time as a contractor but also to forge new bonds with fellow QASAS and Wage Grade inspectors. Together, we’ve shared both the challenges and triumphs of this unique mission, and I will carry the memories of our camaraderie for years to come.
Throughout my time here, I’ve had the fortunate opportunity to explore the breathtaking beauty and rich culture of the region. From the enchanting underwater wonders at the Aquarium to the profound history contained within the National Museum, each visit has been a reminder of the resilience and vibrancy of the human spirit. I’ve loved experiencing the local establishments, where the warmth of the community welcomed us all. For those interested in those adventures, I invite you to browse my previous articles, each capturing the essence of those moments.
This mission hasn’t been without its challenges. I often found myself wearing the hat of an inspector, tasked with ensuring safety and compliance amid real-world situations affecting the region. This wartime responsibility added layers of complexity to my role, yet it also intertwined me further with the brave individuals serving our country. Each inspection allowed me to gain insights into their lives, showcasing their dedication and resilience in the face of adversity
Amidst all this, I managed to embark on a deeply personal project: writing my first solo book, titled “Sacred Whisperings”. Within its pages lie spiritual poems crafted to uplift, heal, and renew hope for anyone navigating the stormy waters of life. It was a labor of love, created in the quiet moments between inspections and during brief reflections on life’s challenges. To my astonishment and delight, the book resonated with readers, becoming a #1 bestseller in three categories. This achievement marks a significant milestone in my creative journey, proving that even in the most trying circumstances, inspiration can bloom.
Amidst all this, I managed to embark on a deeply personal project: writing my first solo book, titled “Sacred Whisperings”. Within its pages lie spiritual poems crafted to uplift, heal, and renew hope for anyone navigating the stormy waters of life. It was a labor of love, created in the quiet moments between inspections and during brief reflections on life’s challenges. To my astonishment and delight, the book resonated with readers, becoming a #1 bestseller in three categories. This achievement marks a significant milestone in my creative journey, proving that even in the most trying circumstances, inspiration can bloom.
Additionally, I had the pleasure of collaborating with some incredible minds in the field of healing and personal growth. Working alongside Dr. Vernessa Blackwell on Rising Through the Pain, joining Tiffany Para for UNSNAPPED, and continuing with Dr. Marissa Bloedoorn in the Word to Inspire Series has been an empowering experience. With all these remarkable doctors around me, I am excited to add my name to that list and introduce myself as Dr. Barry S. Ricoma—Dr. B for short! 😉😁
I’m also immensely grateful to have received the Honorary Doctorate of Humanities for my literary achievements as an author. This recognition has deeply humbled me and underscores the power of storytelling and connection in our shared journeys.
Reflecting on this adventure, I see how it has brought me full circle—connecting back to the people, places, and my career trajectory. I’ve been fortunate enough to blend my professional mission with personal growth, embracing both challenges and victories along the way. It has reinforced my belief in the power of community, creativity, and resilience.
As I close this chapter, I carry with me not only cherished memories and newfound friendships but also a deeper understanding of the world around us. Each person I met has taught me invaluable lessons, and every experience has contributed to a richer tapestry of my life. Thank you for joining me on this journey. Here’s to new beginnings and the stories yet to unfold!
