CONTINGENCY OPERATING BASE ADDER, Iraq - The modern world meshes with the ancient at this American base in southeastern Iraq. Armored Humvees drive down streets with a clear view of the Ziggurat of Ur. Outside the circles of concertina wire, the prophet Abraham lived.

I'm at this base outside Tallil – and, more importantly, outside the ancient city of Ur – with a handful of soldiers from the 81st Brigade Combat Team's 1st Battalion, 161st Infantry Regiment. They're here as part of a trip to learn ancient Mesopotamian history.

The trip is half learning experience, half unofficial R&R for the overworked soldiers. But I'll also be dropping by Bravo Company, 181st Brigade Support Battalion, which runs convoys out of here.