Wed, 28 September 2005
For the ceremony two days ago, I marched off the ramp with the group upon the ceremony’s termination. However, for today’s procession, I stayed behind and waited at the aircraft ramp to pay my respects to this deceased individual. The Army Rangers who were the pallbearers stayed inside the aircraft with the casket the entire time as the many soldiers passed by and paid their respects. As the last person to enter the aircraft, I got to witness something very special. The rangers circled the casket and then knelt in prayer. It was one of the most emotional moments I’ve witnessed in my life – especially with grown men in distraught and with tears streaming down their cheeks. You could feel the intense pain as each one said goodbye to their buddy and friend. Those of us who witnessed this poignant moment were trying our best to hold it together. Though my job does not bring me out to the front lines, this assignment has placed me in a front-row seat right next to the battlefield action. The passing of each one of these brave soldiers has made a permanent mark on our heavy hearts. Their lives will not be forgotten…
Thursday, September 29, 2005
DAY 32: Brown Out
Tue, 27 September 2005
The advance team from the New York unit arrived and performed a familiarization flight with our guys. One of their crewmembers filmed the other helo as it approached the ground for a landing. Though very shaky, the video captures the essence of what we call a “brown out.” Do you recall that I had previously mentioned how very dusty it was here? Well, just imagine the dust and dirt at the texture level of fine talcum powder. So, as the rotors approached the ground, a cloud of brown dust begins to stir. Finally, it becomes larger and more elongated with the forward motion of the helo. When the helicopter finally lands, a full-blown brown cloud completely envelopes the helo and it totally disappears from sight. From the aircrew’s description, it’s total blindness and challenges the skill set of every crewmember on board to ensure a safe landing of the aircraft.
Fallen Soldiers #9 and #10
The advance team from the New York unit arrived and performed a familiarization flight with our guys. One of their crewmembers filmed the other helo as it approached the ground for a landing. Though very shaky, the video captures the essence of what we call a “brown out.” Do you recall that I had previously mentioned how very dusty it was here? Well, just imagine the dust and dirt at the texture level of fine talcum powder. So, as the rotors approached the ground, a cloud of brown dust begins to stir. Finally, it becomes larger and more elongated with the forward motion of the helo. When the helicopter finally lands, a full-blown brown cloud completely envelopes the helo and it totally disappears from sight. From the aircrew’s description, it’s total blindness and challenges the skill set of every crewmember on board to ensure a safe landing of the aircraft.
Fallen Soldiers #9 and #10
DAY 31: Fallen Soldiers
Mon, 26 September 2005
When a coalition member is killed here in Afghanistan, the whole base assembles at the aircraft ramp for the Fallen Soldier ceremony – a solemn military tribute to honor and send off the dead soldier(s). From afar, I’ve witness the ceremony while I was on the other side of the ramp unloading our cargo early in our tour. However, this was my first opportunity to attend a ceremony in person.
We assembled around midday in the hot Afghanistan sun into groups we’re assigned to. The Air Force members coalesce into one large group and in turn several Army units and Coalition forces gather into their recognizable formations. Our first sergeant then marches us onto the flightline right up to the aircraft’s ramp. The group halts and then performs a “left face”. Across the 10-foot wide corridor, another group halts and performs a “right face”. Additional units follow suit and soon there is a huge gathering of troops in a perfect formation with a long corridor provided for the procession. We wait for about 15 minutes and then the ceremony begins.
A Scottish bagpipe starts off the procession by playing a tribute song to honor the fallen soldiers. I’m not familiar with the song’s name, but it’s a tune familiar to us all and very solemn in nature. It immediately sets the tone for this event. Soon, five HMMMVs pull up and park alongside the formation. Each vehicle contains a casket with a draped American flag containing a deceased member from the previous day’s crash. Surrounding the deceased are eight soldiers who then unload the casket and become the pallbearers. A ninth soldier appears from the passenger seat and follows right behind each casket as if he is “protecting the head.”
The entire formation is then ordered to “Present Arms”, a marching order for each member to render a sharp salute. Each group of pallbearers then begins a double-time step to proceed down the corridor and towards the aircraft ramp. As each casket passes by, the enormity of the situation starts to hit each and every one of us. Emotions run high as the passing of each deceased soldier marks another poignant moment. The heartrending event finally starts to impact us on an individual level – I can hear troops all around me start to sniffle and tear up. Soon, even I become overwhelmed by this touching ceremony and begin to tear up as well. Given the duration of the event and our aching arms, not a single soldier or airman drops their salute. When the final casket passes by, an announcement is made to “Order Arms” in which we complete our salute and bring our tired arms down to our sides.
During the entire ceremony, dust devils formed along the runway and moved in the direction of the formation. Several of these vortices passed close by – close enough to witness the details of the swirling vortex and the associated debris field. I’m not a particularly religious person, but if you look deeply into this scene you could see a metaphor in it. With the passing of each dust devil, a soldier’s spirit was being lifted to a higher place. Wherever their souls are, may they rest in peace.
Fallen Soldiers #9 and #10Combat Rescue Save #15
When a coalition member is killed here in Afghanistan, the whole base assembles at the aircraft ramp for the Fallen Soldier ceremony – a solemn military tribute to honor and send off the dead soldier(s). From afar, I’ve witness the ceremony while I was on the other side of the ramp unloading our cargo early in our tour. However, this was my first opportunity to attend a ceremony in person.
We assembled around midday in the hot Afghanistan sun into groups we’re assigned to. The Air Force members coalesce into one large group and in turn several Army units and Coalition forces gather into their recognizable formations. Our first sergeant then marches us onto the flightline right up to the aircraft’s ramp. The group halts and then performs a “left face”. Across the 10-foot wide corridor, another group halts and performs a “right face”. Additional units follow suit and soon there is a huge gathering of troops in a perfect formation with a long corridor provided for the procession. We wait for about 15 minutes and then the ceremony begins.
A Scottish bagpipe starts off the procession by playing a tribute song to honor the fallen soldiers. I’m not familiar with the song’s name, but it’s a tune familiar to us all and very solemn in nature. It immediately sets the tone for this event. Soon, five HMMMVs pull up and park alongside the formation. Each vehicle contains a casket with a draped American flag containing a deceased member from the previous day’s crash. Surrounding the deceased are eight soldiers who then unload the casket and become the pallbearers. A ninth soldier appears from the passenger seat and follows right behind each casket as if he is “protecting the head.”
The entire formation is then ordered to “Present Arms”, a marching order for each member to render a sharp salute. Each group of pallbearers then begins a double-time step to proceed down the corridor and towards the aircraft ramp. As each casket passes by, the enormity of the situation starts to hit each and every one of us. Emotions run high as the passing of each deceased soldier marks another poignant moment. The heartrending event finally starts to impact us on an individual level – I can hear troops all around me start to sniffle and tear up. Soon, even I become overwhelmed by this touching ceremony and begin to tear up as well. Given the duration of the event and our aching arms, not a single soldier or airman drops their salute. When the final casket passes by, an announcement is made to “Order Arms” in which we complete our salute and bring our tired arms down to our sides.
During the entire ceremony, dust devils formed along the runway and moved in the direction of the formation. Several of these vortices passed close by – close enough to witness the details of the swirling vortex and the associated debris field. I’m not a particularly religious person, but if you look deeply into this scene you could see a metaphor in it. With the passing of each dust devil, a soldier’s spirit was being lifted to a higher place. Wherever their souls are, may they rest in peace.
Fallen Soldiers #9 and #10Combat Rescue Save #15
Monday, September 26, 2005
DAY 30: Tragedy Strikes
Sun, 25 September 2005
I’m sure most of you have already heard it on the news – a major incident here in which a CH-47 Chinook helicopter went down killing the five aircrew members. We’re struck by the tragedy and start to mobilize just in case there is a need for a combat rescue. But the news is grim and the recovery crew confirms that no one onboard survived the crash. I was amazed at how quickly CNN picked up this incident – just a few minutes after us – and we’re here in Afghanistan. Although I do not personally know the soldiers, I know that there are now five grieving families back home in the states. When we forget how dangerous our situation is, an event like this brings it all back to focus.
Fallen Soldiers #4, #5, #6, #7 and #8
I’m sure most of you have already heard it on the news – a major incident here in which a CH-47 Chinook helicopter went down killing the five aircrew members. We’re struck by the tragedy and start to mobilize just in case there is a need for a combat rescue. But the news is grim and the recovery crew confirms that no one onboard survived the crash. I was amazed at how quickly CNN picked up this incident – just a few minutes after us – and we’re here in Afghanistan. Although I do not personally know the soldiers, I know that there are now five grieving families back home in the states. When we forget how dangerous our situation is, an event like this brings it all back to focus.
Fallen Soldiers #4, #5, #6, #7 and #8
DAY 29: Bizarre Bazaar
Sat, 24 September 2005
Finally got a chance for some non-work related activity. The bazaar is a weekly event that’s held just outside of the main gate. Due to security concerns, only a certain amount of folks are allowed off-post at any given time. So, we all wait 15-30 minutes and when one person returns another is allowed to leave. We proceed thru a long corridor that has barb-wired fences on both sides. The corridor ends at a road, in which we wearily watch the local Afghans drive by – weaving all over the road no less – and then cross into the bazaar. If you’ve ever been to a bazaar – let’s say, in Mexico or a third-world nation – then you’ll be quite familiar with the one that I attended to. Lots of local vendors peddling everything from pirated DVDs to currency to fake antiques to women’s dresses to Afghan rugs with the intent of the buyer bargaining to make a good sale. However, my intent was to just take pictures and get a lay of the land.
I did notice that the vendors were from different areas within Afghanistan – contrary to a misperception, there is no single “Afghan” identity. Instead, there are various ethnic groups, with the local Pushtans dominating the cultural and political power in Afghanistan. Some folks wore turbans, others wore a small beaded cap that sits on the back of the head, while others wore no headgear at all. Of course, all spoke some English and the one’s that had a master of the language got better sales. A few vendors were a just bit aggressive – I kept walking and they kept following! Well, as hard as they tried to make a sell, in the end I persisted and took pictures of the vendors, their items, and the bazaar. For most of us, this will likely be our only contact with the local Afghans. I made the most of it and then headed back to post. An interesting day soaking up a little bit of Afghan culture.
Finally got a chance for some non-work related activity. The bazaar is a weekly event that’s held just outside of the main gate. Due to security concerns, only a certain amount of folks are allowed off-post at any given time. So, we all wait 15-30 minutes and when one person returns another is allowed to leave. We proceed thru a long corridor that has barb-wired fences on both sides. The corridor ends at a road, in which we wearily watch the local Afghans drive by – weaving all over the road no less – and then cross into the bazaar. If you’ve ever been to a bazaar – let’s say, in Mexico or a third-world nation – then you’ll be quite familiar with the one that I attended to. Lots of local vendors peddling everything from pirated DVDs to currency to fake antiques to women’s dresses to Afghan rugs with the intent of the buyer bargaining to make a good sale. However, my intent was to just take pictures and get a lay of the land.
I did notice that the vendors were from different areas within Afghanistan – contrary to a misperception, there is no single “Afghan” identity. Instead, there are various ethnic groups, with the local Pushtans dominating the cultural and political power in Afghanistan. Some folks wore turbans, others wore a small beaded cap that sits on the back of the head, while others wore no headgear at all. Of course, all spoke some English and the one’s that had a master of the language got better sales. A few vendors were a just bit aggressive – I kept walking and they kept following! Well, as hard as they tried to make a sell, in the end I persisted and took pictures of the vendors, their items, and the bazaar. For most of us, this will likely be our only contact with the local Afghans. I made the most of it and then headed back to post. An interesting day soaking up a little bit of Afghan culture.
DAY 28: Air Force vs. Army
Fri, 23 September 2005
My entire military career has been spent in the Air Force with assignments on Air Force bases. While this sounds completely logical, my former job as a weatherman had a better than 50% chance of getting an Army assignment since there were no Army weather folks. This deployment is the first time that I’ve been assigned to an Army post. So, how different are things you ask? Just ask any former or current military member and they’ll mention the different attitudes, lifestyle, acronyms and even lingo. Yes, a different language for the same basic principle. So, what brought this up? I guess it was my first Information Management Officer (IMO) meeting with the Army folks today. There were just two of us Air Force guys in a sea of Army green within this conference room. Naturally, the entire discussion focused around Army terms, lingo and acronyms. I get bits and pieces and the jist of the conversation. Given my experience down under, for all I know these guys could have been the Aussies! Okay, some differences between us flyboys in the Air Force and the grunts in the Army:
Same concept, but different word:
AF Base vs. Army Post
AF Wing vs. Army Brigade
AF Squadron vs. Army Battalion
AF Flight vs. Army Company
AF Airman vs. Army Soldier
AF BX (Base Exchange) vs. Army PX (Post Exchange)
AF AFSC (AF Specialty Code) vs. Army MOS (Military Occupation Specialty)
AF WGM (Work Group Manager) vs. Army IMO (Information Management Officer)
Same word, but different concept:
AF Billets (carpeted room with bed, couch and TV) vs. Army Billets (bare room with 4 walls and a bed)
AF Camping (tents with air conditioning) vs. Army Camping (field conditions in a sleeping bag)
AF Pilots (Officers O-1 thru O-9) vs. Army Pilots (Warrant Officers WO-1 thru WO-4)
AF Master Sergeant (E-7) vs. Army Master Sergeant (E-8)
AF Staff Sergeant (E-5) vs. Army Staff Sergeant (E-6)
AF Private (means do not enter) vs. Army Private (means a low-ranking soldier)
After all that is said and done, ultimately we’re here to support one another in this harsh climate and dangerous situation. Our combat rescue mission focuses on recovering any friendly forces in trouble and in dire need of emergency medical attention – this includes our Army brethren. When things get tough, we all put away our differences and jump in to assist a fellow American – because THAT’S the bottom line for all of us.
Combat Rescue Saves #13 and #14
My entire military career has been spent in the Air Force with assignments on Air Force bases. While this sounds completely logical, my former job as a weatherman had a better than 50% chance of getting an Army assignment since there were no Army weather folks. This deployment is the first time that I’ve been assigned to an Army post. So, how different are things you ask? Just ask any former or current military member and they’ll mention the different attitudes, lifestyle, acronyms and even lingo. Yes, a different language for the same basic principle. So, what brought this up? I guess it was my first Information Management Officer (IMO) meeting with the Army folks today. There were just two of us Air Force guys in a sea of Army green within this conference room. Naturally, the entire discussion focused around Army terms, lingo and acronyms. I get bits and pieces and the jist of the conversation. Given my experience down under, for all I know these guys could have been the Aussies! Okay, some differences between us flyboys in the Air Force and the grunts in the Army:
Same concept, but different word:
AF Base vs. Army Post
AF Wing vs. Army Brigade
AF Squadron vs. Army Battalion
AF Flight vs. Army Company
AF Airman vs. Army Soldier
AF BX (Base Exchange) vs. Army PX (Post Exchange)
AF AFSC (AF Specialty Code) vs. Army MOS (Military Occupation Specialty)
AF WGM (Work Group Manager) vs. Army IMO (Information Management Officer)
Same word, but different concept:
AF Billets (carpeted room with bed, couch and TV) vs. Army Billets (bare room with 4 walls and a bed)
AF Camping (tents with air conditioning) vs. Army Camping (field conditions in a sleeping bag)
AF Pilots (Officers O-1 thru O-9) vs. Army Pilots (Warrant Officers WO-1 thru WO-4)
AF Master Sergeant (E-7) vs. Army Master Sergeant (E-8)
AF Staff Sergeant (E-5) vs. Army Staff Sergeant (E-6)
AF Private (means do not enter) vs. Army Private (means a low-ranking soldier)
After all that is said and done, ultimately we’re here to support one another in this harsh climate and dangerous situation. Our combat rescue mission focuses on recovering any friendly forces in trouble and in dire need of emergency medical attention – this includes our Army brethren. When things get tough, we all put away our differences and jump in to assist a fellow American – because THAT’S the bottom line for all of us.
Combat Rescue Saves #13 and #14
Friday, September 23, 2005
DAY 27: Do I look like a Travel Agent?
Thu, 22 September 2005
As a loggie, it’s time for me to finalize our homeward bound journey. While the details are classified, I can say this: we’ll be on 9 travel segments including: military, contracted, and commercial flights; and military, contracted and commercial ground transportation modes. Johanna and Robin are the loggie gurus for the Renegades – they would appreciate what I’m going thru. The hard part: everyone has a different opinion on how fast/slow they would like to proceed home. A few folks at the senior command level discuss the pros and cons for each variation for several hours. Finally, I press the commander to make the final decision. Again, not everyone will be pleased. But ultimately this is a military movement and we must make decisions that best suits the group to move us from Afghanistan to our home station in an expedient, yet efficient manner. I finally send the details over a secured network back to our home station. To confirm receipt, I call my boss. After reviewing the message, he mentions “Do I look like a Travel Agent?” We both bust out laughing and then call it a night – well at least for me. It’s 2:30am (next day) and I can now finally retire to bed after a LONG, but fruitful day.
Tour Extension
BTW, it is now official – I will be staying behind for two extra weeks with a few others to move a very large piece of cargo back to the states. The reason is that this is a high-priority mission and my role as a loggie is essential to make the cargo movement happen. So, my end of tour is now mid-October. Such is the life of a loggie – first one in and last one out.
As a loggie, it’s time for me to finalize our homeward bound journey. While the details are classified, I can say this: we’ll be on 9 travel segments including: military, contracted, and commercial flights; and military, contracted and commercial ground transportation modes. Johanna and Robin are the loggie gurus for the Renegades – they would appreciate what I’m going thru. The hard part: everyone has a different opinion on how fast/slow they would like to proceed home. A few folks at the senior command level discuss the pros and cons for each variation for several hours. Finally, I press the commander to make the final decision. Again, not everyone will be pleased. But ultimately this is a military movement and we must make decisions that best suits the group to move us from Afghanistan to our home station in an expedient, yet efficient manner. I finally send the details over a secured network back to our home station. To confirm receipt, I call my boss. After reviewing the message, he mentions “Do I look like a Travel Agent?” We both bust out laughing and then call it a night – well at least for me. It’s 2:30am (next day) and I can now finally retire to bed after a LONG, but fruitful day.
Tour Extension
BTW, it is now official – I will be staying behind for two extra weeks with a few others to move a very large piece of cargo back to the states. The reason is that this is a high-priority mission and my role as a loggie is essential to make the cargo movement happen. So, my end of tour is now mid-October. Such is the life of a loggie – first one in and last one out.
DAY 26: Class Picture Day
Wed, 21 September 2005
I’m sure all of you have gone thru this at least once a year while we were all in school. The prerequisite group picture that requires everyone to assemble and pose. Yes, though we are in a combat zone, even we have one of these pictures for the hallway that marks every AEF (Air Expeditionary Force) cycle. The current Air Force military rotation is AEF 7 & 8, with AEF 7 assigned to Operation Enduring Freedom. The Renegades will understand this comment – SEVEN! Anyway, I digress.
It’s late afternoon and temps are in the high 90s. We assemble on the flightline and then the props are added: our rescue helicopter, a k-loader as a backstage platform and a security forces HMMMV to provide the complement of military equipment. First picture consists all of us from the Air Force Village and it’s a good picture of all the Air Force folks at this location. Afterwards, the folks from my home unit stand fast and we pull out a full-length American flag I had brought to this event. I acquired the very LAST flag from Supply and ensured that it was placed onboard the rescue helicopters to fly the skies of Afghanistan for several combat rescue missions. Ultimately, the intention is that our deployed group will be presenting this flag to our home unit upon our return. So, with flag on hand, I directed several folks to begin the ceremonial unfurling of this precious American symbol. We then carefully lifted the flag onto the k-loader so the top would be secured along the railing. Another group pulled out the bottom and in a tilted position, old glory was in its full display. Finally, all of us from my home unit reassembled and we gave our best pose. The photographers were on top of an elevated platform and took some great pictures. This moment will likely be the one that lasts a lifetime in our home unit’s display case.
I’m sure all of you have gone thru this at least once a year while we were all in school. The prerequisite group picture that requires everyone to assemble and pose. Yes, though we are in a combat zone, even we have one of these pictures for the hallway that marks every AEF (Air Expeditionary Force) cycle. The current Air Force military rotation is AEF 7 & 8, with AEF 7 assigned to Operation Enduring Freedom. The Renegades will understand this comment – SEVEN! Anyway, I digress.
It’s late afternoon and temps are in the high 90s. We assemble on the flightline and then the props are added: our rescue helicopter, a k-loader as a backstage platform and a security forces HMMMV to provide the complement of military equipment. First picture consists all of us from the Air Force Village and it’s a good picture of all the Air Force folks at this location. Afterwards, the folks from my home unit stand fast and we pull out a full-length American flag I had brought to this event. I acquired the very LAST flag from Supply and ensured that it was placed onboard the rescue helicopters to fly the skies of Afghanistan for several combat rescue missions. Ultimately, the intention is that our deployed group will be presenting this flag to our home unit upon our return. So, with flag on hand, I directed several folks to begin the ceremonial unfurling of this precious American symbol. We then carefully lifted the flag onto the k-loader so the top would be secured along the railing. Another group pulled out the bottom and in a tilted position, old glory was in its full display. Finally, all of us from my home unit reassembled and we gave our best pose. The photographers were on top of an elevated platform and took some great pictures. This moment will likely be the one that lasts a lifetime in our home unit’s display case.
DAY 25: Car Wash
Tue, 20 September 2005
Think of the song, “Car Wash, working down at the car wash.” After completing the 2-day, 250 flying hour maintenance, it was now time to conduct a fresh-water rinse of the helo. Night has fallen and the Maintenance Chief informs me that I should go down to the ramp to watch the crew wash the helicopter. One of the maintainers was utilizing a high-power sprayer – similar to the equipment that you’ll find at a self-service car wash. Connected to this sprayer was a large plastic container – known as a water buffalo in military lingo – containing 500 gallons of fresh water. Finally, a John Deere tractor was required to bring this contraption over to the helicopter’s parking space. Another maintainer, Jim, drove the tractor and we all commented that he looked very much like “Farmer Jim” as he drove along. He then informs us that his middle name is Bob. Considering that he is half Asian and his name is “Jim Bob”, we all started to bust out in laughter. One of those funny and ironic moments that makes this deployment special.
Combat Rescue Save #12
P.S. – I got my second piece of mail today – thank you Lesa B!
Think of the song, “Car Wash, working down at the car wash.” After completing the 2-day, 250 flying hour maintenance, it was now time to conduct a fresh-water rinse of the helo. Night has fallen and the Maintenance Chief informs me that I should go down to the ramp to watch the crew wash the helicopter. One of the maintainers was utilizing a high-power sprayer – similar to the equipment that you’ll find at a self-service car wash. Connected to this sprayer was a large plastic container – known as a water buffalo in military lingo – containing 500 gallons of fresh water. Finally, a John Deere tractor was required to bring this contraption over to the helicopter’s parking space. Another maintainer, Jim, drove the tractor and we all commented that he looked very much like “Farmer Jim” as he drove along. He then informs us that his middle name is Bob. Considering that he is half Asian and his name is “Jim Bob”, we all started to bust out in laughter. One of those funny and ironic moments that makes this deployment special.
Combat Rescue Save #12
P.S. – I got my second piece of mail today – thank you Lesa B!
DAY 24: The Maintainers
Mon, 19 September 2005
One of the key elements in making our mission successful is the aircraft maintenance required to keep the helicopters in tip-top shape. While the pilots and aircrew get all the glory for the combat rescue missions, it is the maintainers behind the scenes that ensure the aircraft are always ready to fly at a moment’s notice.
One of the birds reached its 250 flying hour mark today – in car terms, that’s similar to the 100,000 mileage mark – and thus it required an extensive maintenance check of lubrication and parts to ensure things were running smoothly. This includes an evaluation of the sophisticated electronics that distinguishes our helicopters from regular civilian helicopters (i.e. traffic helicopters). Compound this with the ever-prevalent dust that permeates EVERYTHING – and it’s a tough challenge that drives our maintainers to go the extra mile in ensuring that the aircraft is in a safe and flyable condition. I’m truly amazed at their professionalism and dedication to the job. A very cool bunch of guys.
P.S. – I got my first piece of mail today – thank you Sheila P!
One of the key elements in making our mission successful is the aircraft maintenance required to keep the helicopters in tip-top shape. While the pilots and aircrew get all the glory for the combat rescue missions, it is the maintainers behind the scenes that ensure the aircraft are always ready to fly at a moment’s notice.
One of the birds reached its 250 flying hour mark today – in car terms, that’s similar to the 100,000 mileage mark – and thus it required an extensive maintenance check of lubrication and parts to ensure things were running smoothly. This includes an evaluation of the sophisticated electronics that distinguishes our helicopters from regular civilian helicopters (i.e. traffic helicopters). Compound this with the ever-prevalent dust that permeates EVERYTHING – and it’s a tough challenge that drives our maintainers to go the extra mile in ensuring that the aircraft is in a safe and flyable condition. I’m truly amazed at their professionalism and dedication to the job. A very cool bunch of guys.
P.S. – I got my first piece of mail today – thank you Sheila P!
Monday, September 19, 2005
DAY 23: Afghan Elections
Sun, 18 September 2005
Today marks a historic day – the first parliamentary elections in over three decades for the Afghan people. Everyone here has been a little on edge as the Taliban has been doing everything in its power to disrupt, threaten and even kill people to stop these elections. However, it appears that the Afghan people succeeded in the end and the elections went forward as scheduled. Still, it is tragic that 15 people lost their lives because of the violence. What a brave struggle in the face of such adversity – you have to admire their strength and persistence to vote with their lives at stake. To witness democracy emerge is truly a landmark event – and even more so knowing that I am right here at ground zero as it emerges and comes to fruition.
Fallen Soldier #3 (French commando)
Note: you may require a free online New York Times subscription to view one of the links
Today marks a historic day – the first parliamentary elections in over three decades for the Afghan people. Everyone here has been a little on edge as the Taliban has been doing everything in its power to disrupt, threaten and even kill people to stop these elections. However, it appears that the Afghan people succeeded in the end and the elections went forward as scheduled. Still, it is tragic that 15 people lost their lives because of the violence. What a brave struggle in the face of such adversity – you have to admire their strength and persistence to vote with their lives at stake. To witness democracy emerge is truly a landmark event – and even more so knowing that I am right here at ground zero as it emerges and comes to fruition.
Fallen Soldier #3 (French commando)
Note: you may require a free online New York Times subscription to view one of the links
DAY 22: Where’s the Steering Wheel?
Sat, 17 September 2005
Another paradigm change is the driving. Although we are confined to the base for our own safety, many vehicles are leased from the local economy. 3 of our vehicles have the English-style car – replete with steering wheel on the opposite side. One of the pickups is a manual, so that provides an additional challenge for many of my coworkers. For me though, it’s kinda fun. The shift pattern, pedals, and gauges are all identical in placement. The only confusing thing is the placement of the directional signal and window wiper stalks – they are reversed from what we’re used to, so the initial tendency is to turn on the window wiper when making a turn. Happens every time to a rookie driver. So, while this rookie is cursing the car, I quietly chuckle in amusement knowing that I went thru the same routine myself.
Another paradigm change is the driving. Although we are confined to the base for our own safety, many vehicles are leased from the local economy. 3 of our vehicles have the English-style car – replete with steering wheel on the opposite side. One of the pickups is a manual, so that provides an additional challenge for many of my coworkers. For me though, it’s kinda fun. The shift pattern, pedals, and gauges are all identical in placement. The only confusing thing is the placement of the directional signal and window wiper stalks – they are reversed from what we’re used to, so the initial tendency is to turn on the window wiper when making a turn. Happens every time to a rookie driver. So, while this rookie is cursing the car, I quietly chuckle in amusement knowing that I went thru the same routine myself.
DAY 21: Canadian, Eh?
Fri, 16 September 2005
The base I’m at is a true Coalition Force. Today, I decided to walk to the Pax Terminal to start coordinating our return flight home – woohoo! As I’m walking down the street, a bunch of funky looking Canadian tanks pass me by. The reason they look unusual is because these “tanks” have real wheels vs. the typical tank treadmills. Plus, in the back are a couple of open seats that soldiers can sit in and look around – sort of like “parade-style” viewing. The Canadians are a little special to me – my first cousins – John and Susan – live in the Bay Area and both were originally from the Great White North. Plus, the uniforms for the Canadian Forces are just plain cool!
The base I’m at is a true Coalition Force. Today, I decided to walk to the Pax Terminal to start coordinating our return flight home – woohoo! As I’m walking down the street, a bunch of funky looking Canadian tanks pass me by. The reason they look unusual is because these “tanks” have real wheels vs. the typical tank treadmills. Plus, in the back are a couple of open seats that soldiers can sit in and look around – sort of like “parade-style” viewing. The Canadians are a little special to me – my first cousins – John and Susan – live in the Bay Area and both were originally from the Great White North. Plus, the uniforms for the Canadian Forces are just plain cool!
Thursday, September 15, 2005
DAY 20: Things that go Boom!
Thu, 15 September 2005
Woke up this morning to an EOD (Explosive Ordnance Disposal) announcement of a pending explosion. The EOD folks regularly blow up mines around the base that were left by the Soviets in their war with Afghanistan in the 1980s (1979-89). The explosion occurs on the other side of the base – about 1 mile away. Yet, my bed and room rocks as if it’s an earthquake – wow! Several of these explosions occur, then an announcement comes indicating that EOD is done for the day. When we first arrived and heard these booms, many of us weren’t sure if we were being attacked or if it was a scheduled event. The nervousness of the first few days has given away to a guarded anticipation of these events. One of those things that completely changes your paradigm of what a “normal day” is.
Woke up this morning to an EOD (Explosive Ordnance Disposal) announcement of a pending explosion. The EOD folks regularly blow up mines around the base that were left by the Soviets in their war with Afghanistan in the 1980s (1979-89). The explosion occurs on the other side of the base – about 1 mile away. Yet, my bed and room rocks as if it’s an earthquake – wow! Several of these explosions occur, then an announcement comes indicating that EOD is done for the day. When we first arrived and heard these booms, many of us weren’t sure if we were being attacked or if it was a scheduled event. The nervousness of the first few days has given away to a guarded anticipation of these events. One of those things that completely changes your paradigm of what a “normal day” is.
DAY 19: Acting Duty Officer
Wed, 14 September 2005
One of those days where I have to step out of my loggie shoes and take on other responsibilities to ensure daily operations are maintained. A little hectic and a bit crazy at times, but the end of the day comes swiftly.
One of those days where I have to step out of my loggie shoes and take on other responsibilities to ensure daily operations are maintained. A little hectic and a bit crazy at times, but the end of the day comes swiftly.
DAY 18: Night Takeoff
Tue, 13 September 2005
Okay, just as I thought the evening launch was spectacular, the night ones are even more surreal. Cool moment – gibbous moon low in the sky, and the helo is stopped on the runway and is silhouetted against a runway light. Another Kodak moment missed, but one that is seared into my long-term memory.
Combat Rescue Save #11
Okay, just as I thought the evening launch was spectacular, the night ones are even more surreal. Cool moment – gibbous moon low in the sky, and the helo is stopped on the runway and is silhouetted against a runway light. Another Kodak moment missed, but one that is seared into my long-term memory.
Combat Rescue Save #11
DAY 17: Evening Launch
Mon, 12 September 2005
Got to witness an early evening takeoff of our helicopters. Absolutely spectacular to watch as the sun hangs low on the horizon and each helo taxis down the ramp. As each helo passes, we wave bye to our fellow airmen, huddle down for the rotor blast, watch it move onto the runway, and then lift off.
Combat Rescue Saves #8, #9, #10
Got to witness an early evening takeoff of our helicopters. Absolutely spectacular to watch as the sun hangs low on the horizon and each helo taxis down the ramp. As each helo passes, we wave bye to our fellow airmen, huddle down for the rotor blast, watch it move onto the runway, and then lift off.
Combat Rescue Saves #8, #9, #10
DAY 16: Day of Remembrance
Sun, 11 September 2005
In the early morning hours, I head over to a location on base to gather in an outdoor formation to honor the victims of 9/11. Several chaplains – including a Romanian – speak and at the end a 21-gun salute ensues followed by a bugle playing “Taps”. At this moment, many of us are on the verge of tears knowing the enormity of our presence – we are here to fight in al-Qaeda’s backyard for those 3000 or so lives that were taken four years ago. Although I will only be here a short time, I am honored to be serving in this war on behalf of our fallen Americans. Some interesting comments from another captain…
In the early morning hours, I head over to a location on base to gather in an outdoor formation to honor the victims of 9/11. Several chaplains – including a Romanian – speak and at the end a 21-gun salute ensues followed by a bugle playing “Taps”. At this moment, many of us are on the verge of tears knowing the enormity of our presence – we are here to fight in al-Qaeda’s backyard for those 3000 or so lives that were taken four years ago. Although I will only be here a short time, I am honored to be serving in this war on behalf of our fallen Americans. Some interesting comments from another captain…
DAY 15: Dust in the Wind
Sat, 10 September 2005
From morning until night, the winds pick up and we’re engulfed in a dust storm. Visibilities are limited to 1 mile the entire day. It’s a gray pitch that even distorts the sun when it is low in the horizon. Unfortunately, this dust is as fine as talcum powder and permeates everything: car vents, inside of your goggles, even your sinuses. My sinuses react to this by bleeding, so I get some saline sinus medication to help things out. I don’t know how the local Afghans breathe this air – it must do some terrible damage to their lungs over a lifetime. If there’s one thing I absolutely hate about this place – it’s the dust.
From morning until night, the winds pick up and we’re engulfed in a dust storm. Visibilities are limited to 1 mile the entire day. It’s a gray pitch that even distorts the sun when it is low in the horizon. Unfortunately, this dust is as fine as talcum powder and permeates everything: car vents, inside of your goggles, even your sinuses. My sinuses react to this by bleeding, so I get some saline sinus medication to help things out. I don’t know how the local Afghans breathe this air – it must do some terrible damage to their lungs over a lifetime. If there’s one thing I absolutely hate about this place – it’s the dust.
DAY 14: All Quiet on the Eastern Front
Fri, 9 September 2005
Wow, the minute I got here, it’s been 16-hour days – at a minimum. So much burden on each of our small shoulders to bear. Still the mission is incredible and adrenaline keeps us going as we tackle the many tasks to accomplish. But, after 10 days of this non-stop go-go-go, I’m worn out. Things finally slow down a bit so that I just put in a regular 12-hour day and score some much needed rest.
Wow, the minute I got here, it’s been 16-hour days – at a minimum. So much burden on each of our small shoulders to bear. Still the mission is incredible and adrenaline keeps us going as we tackle the many tasks to accomplish. But, after 10 days of this non-stop go-go-go, I’m worn out. Things finally slow down a bit so that I just put in a regular 12-hour day and score some much needed rest.
DAY 13: Dust Devils
Thu, 8 September 2005
I stop by the Motorpool to repair a vehicle’s flat tire. The workshop’s location is prime with a commanding view of the flightline. It’s in the middle of the afternoon, and I notice something moving along the flightline. It’s swirling and growing – a dust devil in the making. I just stand there and watch as several of these devils grown into semi-tornadoes a few hundred feet in vertical height. As it glides across the runway, it encounters a few tents in its path. No destruction, but I’m sure that the folks inside are a little perturbed with the invasion of dust and wind. After a couple of minutes the vortices soon die out and another one starts up.
I stop by the Motorpool to repair a vehicle’s flat tire. The workshop’s location is prime with a commanding view of the flightline. It’s in the middle of the afternoon, and I notice something moving along the flightline. It’s swirling and growing – a dust devil in the making. I just stand there and watch as several of these devils grown into semi-tornadoes a few hundred feet in vertical height. As it glides across the runway, it encounters a few tents in its path. No destruction, but I’m sure that the folks inside are a little perturbed with the invasion of dust and wind. After a couple of minutes the vortices soon die out and another one starts up.
DAY 12: Crescent Moon
Wed, 7 September 2005
Read about this upcoming planetary alignment in the “Astronomy” magazine that I brought. So, right around sunset I head out to the Maintenance Hangar to get a clear view of the western horizon. My expectations were high and I was definitely not disappointed. With all the dust and haze in the sky, the crescent moon appeared to hang there as if it was painted onto the sky’s background. Keep in mind that the crescent moon is also an important symbol in Muslim culture and given my location it was all the more surreal. Venus and Jupiter were also nearby and in conjunction with the moon the trio created a perfect alignment. Finally, add to this scenario our helicopters in the foreground in silhouette – and I had an absolutely stunning vision that was seared into my memory banks.
Combat Rescue Save #7
Read about this upcoming planetary alignment in the “Astronomy” magazine that I brought. So, right around sunset I head out to the Maintenance Hangar to get a clear view of the western horizon. My expectations were high and I was definitely not disappointed. With all the dust and haze in the sky, the crescent moon appeared to hang there as if it was painted onto the sky’s background. Keep in mind that the crescent moon is also an important symbol in Muslim culture and given my location it was all the more surreal. Venus and Jupiter were also nearby and in conjunction with the moon the trio created a perfect alignment. Finally, add to this scenario our helicopters in the foreground in silhouette – and I had an absolutely stunning vision that was seared into my memory banks.
Combat Rescue Save #7
DAY 11: Mail Call
Tue, 6 September 2005
Headed down to the military post office to pick up our mail. Each day of the week, a different squadron within the camp is tasked to pick up the mail. So, for my first time I’m thinking the amount will be a few letters and maybe some boxes. When I see our bin, I’m floored. It’s got boxes stacked all the way up to the ceiling! God, how am I going to lug all this stuff by myself back to the camp? After loading 3 large bins-worth of boxes, the pickup is completely full. I head back to camp and just before unloading I have to show a few of my coworkers the amount of mail I just picked up – their eyes are huge in amazement. But, even more flabbergasting is not just the amount, but the type of mail as well. Sitting on top of the heap was a guitar case – yes, you read it right – a guitar someone had mailed to a member here. I had to take a picture, because some folks didn’t believe it. Wow, now I’ve seen it all!
Headed down to the military post office to pick up our mail. Each day of the week, a different squadron within the camp is tasked to pick up the mail. So, for my first time I’m thinking the amount will be a few letters and maybe some boxes. When I see our bin, I’m floored. It’s got boxes stacked all the way up to the ceiling! God, how am I going to lug all this stuff by myself back to the camp? After loading 3 large bins-worth of boxes, the pickup is completely full. I head back to camp and just before unloading I have to show a few of my coworkers the amount of mail I just picked up – their eyes are huge in amazement. But, even more flabbergasting is not just the amount, but the type of mail as well. Sitting on top of the heap was a guitar case – yes, you read it right – a guitar someone had mailed to a member here. I had to take a picture, because some folks didn’t believe it. Wow, now I’ve seen it all!
DAY 10: Invasion of the Locusts
Mon, 5 September 2005
Not that I mind bugs that don’t bite. But when thousands of them all of a sudden swarm down on our camp – yikes! I’ve seen on TV the hoards that invade the Australian Outback. But to witness a locust swarm first hand is a little nerve wrecking. What’s really horrible is that the locusts came in droves and swarmed everywhere: into buildings, rooms, cars, shoes, EVERYWHERE. But just as quickly as they had appeared, within a day the swarm moved on to greener pastures. Whew, no more random locusts staring back at you from the floor as you go down to tie your shoes.
San Francisco Renegades update:
Gotta make a plug for my drum corps here: the Renegades achieved their first-ever Top 5 finish over the Labor Day weekend in the 2005 DCA World Championship finals with a score of 93.738. Congratulations everyone – you know how much I loved marching this season and miss you all!
Not that I mind bugs that don’t bite. But when thousands of them all of a sudden swarm down on our camp – yikes! I’ve seen on TV the hoards that invade the Australian Outback. But to witness a locust swarm first hand is a little nerve wrecking. What’s really horrible is that the locusts came in droves and swarmed everywhere: into buildings, rooms, cars, shoes, EVERYWHERE. But just as quickly as they had appeared, within a day the swarm moved on to greener pastures. Whew, no more random locusts staring back at you from the floor as you go down to tie your shoes.
San Francisco Renegades update:
Gotta make a plug for my drum corps here: the Renegades achieved their first-ever Top 5 finish over the Labor Day weekend in the 2005 DCA World Championship finals with a score of 93.738. Congratulations everyone – you know how much I loved marching this season and miss you all!
DAY 9: The Good, the Bad and the Ugly Afghans
Sun, 4 September 2005
Our flight doctor invites me to tag along for a visit to the local military hospital. This is the site where our combat saves come to recover if they aren’t in a critical condition. We are escorted to an area where the patients on the Coalition’s side are recovering. An interpreter and his brother stand by the bedsides to translate, so I inquire on the patient’s ages. I’m informed that most of them are between 17 and 20 years in age. I express my gratitude to them in helping us pursue the enemy and make a friendly gesture in which they acknowledge.
We then move to a cordoned off area of the hospital. Located in this separate room is an enemy combatant who is unconscious. Two guards are outside the door awaiting his wakening. I’m amazed at the amount of medical care provided to this patient who is our enemy. If the situation were reversed, would he show us as much mercy?
Combat Rescue Saves #5 and #6
Our flight doctor invites me to tag along for a visit to the local military hospital. This is the site where our combat saves come to recover if they aren’t in a critical condition. We are escorted to an area where the patients on the Coalition’s side are recovering. An interpreter and his brother stand by the bedsides to translate, so I inquire on the patient’s ages. I’m informed that most of them are between 17 and 20 years in age. I express my gratitude to them in helping us pursue the enemy and make a friendly gesture in which they acknowledge.
We then move to a cordoned off area of the hospital. Located in this separate room is an enemy combatant who is unconscious. Two guards are outside the door awaiting his wakening. I’m amazed at the amount of medical care provided to this patient who is our enemy. If the situation were reversed, would he show us as much mercy?
Combat Rescue Saves #5 and #6
DAY 8: Afghanistan Hot
Sat, 3 September 2005
I finally get a chance to perform my duties as a loggie on station. I greet each aircraft as it arrives and the Maintenance team and I start the unloading process of our cargo via k-loaders and forklifts. Really cool visual sight to witness incredibly heavy cargo slide along the k-loader as if it were gliding on thin air. The military did a great job in designing this process. As we pull out our rescue helicopter, the main rotors are folded back, which reminds me a little of a new wasp emerging from its cell. We drive the rolling stock – aka vehicles in military lingo – directly to our compound, while the rest of the cargo gets impounded in the inbound yard. I coordinate with the various agencies on base to later bring the inbound cargo into our compound.
We hire the KBR civilians, who were contracted to provide this service. KBR stands for Kellogg, Browning and Root – yes, the same subsidiary of Halliburton, ala Dick Cheney. Good, bad or indifferent of the political overtones, these guys are all civilians doing an admirable job in this dangerous location. Many of them are retired veterans and all have great attitudes.
A sidebar: over the course of the entire day, we’re out in the hot sun with temps in the low 100s and dusty as hell. With the Renegades, the rehearsal camp days in the hot Sacramento sun were referred to as “Africa Hot”. Well, I’m coining a term, “Afghanistan Hot”. That’s when it’s both hot AND dusty. Actually, I think our Mars camp may qualify for this description. Anyway, back to the cargo dialogue…
So, while it’s “Afghanistan Hot” outside, I’m directing where each pallet will be placed, while several KBR civilians on 30K forklifts and flatbed trailers are moving the cargo around. While most of this cargo movement proceeds rather routinely, the last pallet provides the greatest challenge. It has to be squeezed in at the end of a row of other pallets, but parked cars prevent clear access to this spot. So, what seems like 20 minutes or more, Tom – the forklift driver – and I go back and forth until it finally is squeezed in its spot. Amazed of this great feat of accomplishment, I shake his hand and give him a sharp salute. In jest, he comments, “You don’t give an old, rusty retired NCO a salute – especially an officer.” But I retort, “Yes, you do to someone with that much perseverance!” We say goodbye and I’m satisfied knowing that my job as a loggie is complete on the front end.
Fallen Soldier #2
I finally get a chance to perform my duties as a loggie on station. I greet each aircraft as it arrives and the Maintenance team and I start the unloading process of our cargo via k-loaders and forklifts. Really cool visual sight to witness incredibly heavy cargo slide along the k-loader as if it were gliding on thin air. The military did a great job in designing this process. As we pull out our rescue helicopter, the main rotors are folded back, which reminds me a little of a new wasp emerging from its cell. We drive the rolling stock – aka vehicles in military lingo – directly to our compound, while the rest of the cargo gets impounded in the inbound yard. I coordinate with the various agencies on base to later bring the inbound cargo into our compound.
We hire the KBR civilians, who were contracted to provide this service. KBR stands for Kellogg, Browning and Root – yes, the same subsidiary of Halliburton, ala Dick Cheney. Good, bad or indifferent of the political overtones, these guys are all civilians doing an admirable job in this dangerous location. Many of them are retired veterans and all have great attitudes.
A sidebar: over the course of the entire day, we’re out in the hot sun with temps in the low 100s and dusty as hell. With the Renegades, the rehearsal camp days in the hot Sacramento sun were referred to as “Africa Hot”. Well, I’m coining a term, “Afghanistan Hot”. That’s when it’s both hot AND dusty. Actually, I think our Mars camp may qualify for this description. Anyway, back to the cargo dialogue…
So, while it’s “Afghanistan Hot” outside, I’m directing where each pallet will be placed, while several KBR civilians on 30K forklifts and flatbed trailers are moving the cargo around. While most of this cargo movement proceeds rather routinely, the last pallet provides the greatest challenge. It has to be squeezed in at the end of a row of other pallets, but parked cars prevent clear access to this spot. So, what seems like 20 minutes or more, Tom – the forklift driver – and I go back and forth until it finally is squeezed in its spot. Amazed of this great feat of accomplishment, I shake his hand and give him a sharp salute. In jest, he comments, “You don’t give an old, rusty retired NCO a salute – especially an officer.” But I retort, “Yes, you do to someone with that much perseverance!” We say goodbye and I’m satisfied knowing that my job as a loggie is complete on the front end.
Fallen Soldier #2
DAY 7: Katrina & the Waves
Fri, 2 September 2005
While watching CNN, we start to realize the magnitude of Hurricane Katrina’s aftermath and the tragedy that starts to unfold in New Orleans with the flooding from the levee breaks. My brother-in-law’s sister and her husband recently moved back from overseas and had just settled in New Orleans with their baby triplets. Fortunately, they were out of town and out of harm’s way when the disaster struck. Still, to lose just about every personal possession is mind-boggling. My thoughts are with them as they start their lives all over.
We were informed that our unit is now doing double duty: a squadron of us is deployed out here in Afghanistan while our rescue helicopters and crews back at home station have been tasked to support the Hurricane Katrina aftermath. An official count so far indicated 212 lives saved (updated 9/16). My family also informs me that my brother is heading down there to help in the rescue and recovery effort. I’m distraught to hear that crazy idiots start to shoot at the rescue helicopters. This kind of behavior absolutely baffles me. What has gone wrong with our society to warrant this?
Note: Washington Post or San Jose Mercury News may require free online subscription to view the links in this chapter.
Combat Rescue Saves #3 and #4
Katrina Rescue Saves #1 thru #212
While watching CNN, we start to realize the magnitude of Hurricane Katrina’s aftermath and the tragedy that starts to unfold in New Orleans with the flooding from the levee breaks. My brother-in-law’s sister and her husband recently moved back from overseas and had just settled in New Orleans with their baby triplets. Fortunately, they were out of town and out of harm’s way when the disaster struck. Still, to lose just about every personal possession is mind-boggling. My thoughts are with them as they start their lives all over.
We were informed that our unit is now doing double duty: a squadron of us is deployed out here in Afghanistan while our rescue helicopters and crews back at home station have been tasked to support the Hurricane Katrina aftermath. An official count so far indicated 212 lives saved (updated 9/16). My family also informs me that my brother is heading down there to help in the rescue and recovery effort. I’m distraught to hear that crazy idiots start to shoot at the rescue helicopters. This kind of behavior absolutely baffles me. What has gone wrong with our society to warrant this?
Note: Washington Post or San Jose Mercury News may require free online subscription to view the links in this chapter.
Combat Rescue Saves #3 and #4
Katrina Rescue Saves #1 thru #212
DAY 6: Red Alert
Thu, 1 September 2005
The Air Force Reserve folks step down and in turn our unit steps up to take on command of this expeditionary combat rescue mission. With this transition comes a constant vigilance to maintain alert status should combat rescue missions come flowing down. It didn’t take long before things got absolutely hectic and crazy around here…
Fallen Soldier #1
Combat Rescue Saves #1 and #2
The Air Force Reserve folks step down and in turn our unit steps up to take on command of this expeditionary combat rescue mission. With this transition comes a constant vigilance to maintain alert status should combat rescue missions come flowing down. It didn’t take long before things got absolutely hectic and crazy around here…
Fallen Soldier #1
Combat Rescue Saves #1 and #2
Sunday, September 11, 2005
DAY 5: Welcome to Afghanistan
Wed, 31 August 2005
Shaka Zulu?
Zulu time is a military term that’s synonymous with Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) or Coordinated Universal Time (UTC). Basically, it’s a single time zone utilized to synchronize global operations. What’s interesting is that the base we’re at operates strictly on zulu time. And since Afghanistan operates on a ½ hour advance of the +4 hour time zone, we are therefore zulu +4.5 hours. Thus, at 04z it is 0830 local time – yes, this confuses everyone upon arrival, but you get somewhat used to it after a couple of days. I’ve worked with zulu in my younger days as a weather observer and forecaster – all of our observations and forecasts were based in zulu times. But to operate strictly in zulu leaves most of us totally discombobulated trying to perform random time calculations of local and home station times. So, I head to the BX and purchase a dual-time watch to straighten things out. The big analog hands are on local time, while the digital part is in zulu – just like my good ‘ol weather days. Now the brain is no longer confused and I’m happy with this new order!
Chalk 1 Arrives
Around midday, the Chalk 1 folks finally arrive. The Chalk 2 folks are rested – we all crashed hard, slept well, and reset our body’s circadian rhythm. The Chalk 1 folks slept a little at Manas then had to get up early to depart for Afghanistan. You could see it in their eyes the exhaustion of our long journey. What a difference a day makes.
Loggie overboard
We immediately start to work and interface with the folks that will soon be departing. Only one problem: there is no loggie. So, I’m a little baffled as to the situation. One of the maintenance troops is prepping and loading up the cargo. Only problem is that he doesn’t know how to develop a load plan. A load plan is a systematic plan that determines the optimal placement of cargo based upon its weight, dimensions and center of balance. Even worse, the loggie at home station sent a load plan from an older system no longer accepted by the Army. Okay, so now I’m witnessing a bad situation that starts getting worse by the minute…
Cool Stuff
As soon as we arrived on station, there was a fast-paced transition for our unit to assume the alert mission from the departing folks. As much as I wish I could share the operational details with you, OPSEC rules dictate that I cannot discuss this information. Thus, most of the discussions going forward will be centered around my daily routines and basic observations. Keep in mind this will just be a small slice of what’s going on around me.
Shaka Zulu?
Zulu time is a military term that’s synonymous with Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) or Coordinated Universal Time (UTC). Basically, it’s a single time zone utilized to synchronize global operations. What’s interesting is that the base we’re at operates strictly on zulu time. And since Afghanistan operates on a ½ hour advance of the +4 hour time zone, we are therefore zulu +4.5 hours. Thus, at 04z it is 0830 local time – yes, this confuses everyone upon arrival, but you get somewhat used to it after a couple of days. I’ve worked with zulu in my younger days as a weather observer and forecaster – all of our observations and forecasts were based in zulu times. But to operate strictly in zulu leaves most of us totally discombobulated trying to perform random time calculations of local and home station times. So, I head to the BX and purchase a dual-time watch to straighten things out. The big analog hands are on local time, while the digital part is in zulu – just like my good ‘ol weather days. Now the brain is no longer confused and I’m happy with this new order!
Chalk 1 Arrives
Around midday, the Chalk 1 folks finally arrive. The Chalk 2 folks are rested – we all crashed hard, slept well, and reset our body’s circadian rhythm. The Chalk 1 folks slept a little at Manas then had to get up early to depart for Afghanistan. You could see it in their eyes the exhaustion of our long journey. What a difference a day makes.
Loggie overboard
We immediately start to work and interface with the folks that will soon be departing. Only one problem: there is no loggie. So, I’m a little baffled as to the situation. One of the maintenance troops is prepping and loading up the cargo. Only problem is that he doesn’t know how to develop a load plan. A load plan is a systematic plan that determines the optimal placement of cargo based upon its weight, dimensions and center of balance. Even worse, the loggie at home station sent a load plan from an older system no longer accepted by the Army. Okay, so now I’m witnessing a bad situation that starts getting worse by the minute…
Cool Stuff
As soon as we arrived on station, there was a fast-paced transition for our unit to assume the alert mission from the departing folks. As much as I wish I could share the operational details with you, OPSEC rules dictate that I cannot discuss this information. Thus, most of the discussions going forward will be centered around my daily routines and basic observations. Keep in mind this will just be a small slice of what’s going on around me.
DAY 4: The Edge of the Earth
Tue, 30 August 2005
Oh Dark Hundred
This time I have my sweatshirt and I stay warm enough for the second leg. I’m not tired, so I have a good chat with our flight doc and start reading my magazines that I brought: “The Economist”, “Astronomy” and “Explore the Universe”. Okay, so my fellow super macho military members are reading the likes of “Soldier of Fortune” and “Maxim”, while I’m reading geeky stuff that pertains to global events and the solar system. But hey – to each his or her own, right? Finally, after a 7-hour journey of continent hopping, we land at Manas, Kyrgyzstan at 3am. I’m sure you’re asking, “Where in the heck is this place?” Manas is Bishkek’s (the capital) airport and Kyrgyzstan was once a former Soviet republic that borders China. Yes, I believe I’ve landed on the edge of earth…
Local time: +13 hours ahead of California time
Loggies
As Logistics Readiness Officers, we’re also affectionally known as “loggies”. Our job is to get people and cargo from one point to another. Sounds simple until you have to deal with the numerous exceptions to the rule, the many changes, the required documentation for the troops, and the tons of cargo to be prepped and shipped. So, before we even reach Afghanistan I’ve already started working to get us airlift from Manas into our final destination. Our folks check into lodging and I drop my bags but head right out to the Passenger (Pax) Terminal to find the outbound schedule. Cool, there’s a flight scheduled within 6 hours of our arrival. A few minutes later, we check back only to find that we’ve been bumped because the airman who check us in didn’t realize another group had a higher priority. Okay, another mission comes up…then a few minutes later, it disappears. So, this is going to be a tougher challenge than I thought. Finally, we get some dedicated airlift, but there’s only room for two-thirds of our group. I discuss the options with my troop commander and we agree to split the group in two; he would go ahead with the main body, while I would stay back and get the remaining group airlift later in the day.
Manas
So the first group (Chalk 1) departs and the rest of us stay back and relax. None of us had much sleep since leaving England, and it was not about to change since we’re now in broad daylight at Manas. Manas is an interesting spot – it’s officially known as the “Gateway to OEF” as it is the stepping off point for the troops as they head to various undisclosed locations in Afghanistan and neighboring countries.
Dosey doe, and Away we don’t go
While my crew (Chalk 2) is waiting, I check the Recreation Tent out and purchase a beer. It’s our last chance for alcohol, so I order some Russian looking product that’s only $2. Interesting flavor, and as I sip on it, the bus returns – only the Chalk 1 folks are on it! We laugh as they return and then await a couple of more hours. This time, both chalks board buses and head back out to the tarmac. We sit…then sit…then sit. Okay, Chalk 1’s plane is still having problems, and now ours is down for maintenance as well – ugh. So, back to the Pax Terminal and to wait some more. Finally, a few hours later I’m about to make a command decision. My folks have been waiting for 11 hours and most of us have been up for over 24 hours with little or no sleep. At the 12 hour mark, I was calling it quits for the day. But, by some strange luck Chalk 2 gets called up at the 11:40 mark. So, we say bye to Chalk 1, then head out. Only this time we take off! So, now Chalk 1 is stuck in Manas and will have to await another day before getting out.
Afghanistan, here we come
In the C-130, it’s cramped. I’m fortunate enough to sit near a porthole and peer out over the landscape as we leave Manas and fly over Kyrgyzstan, Tajikstan and finally Afghanistan. Snow-covered high mountains dominate the early terrain, giving way to lower mountains and a dark-brown landscape. We finally land at our destination around 5:30pm. It’s hot as hell and the sky is filled with dust and haze…welcome to Afghanistan! We in-process then attend some newcomer meetings. Finally, after staying up for 36 hours straight, I crash…it’s a hard crash and zzzzzzz’s galore.
Local time: +11.5 hours ahead of California time
Oh Dark Hundred
This time I have my sweatshirt and I stay warm enough for the second leg. I’m not tired, so I have a good chat with our flight doc and start reading my magazines that I brought: “The Economist”, “Astronomy” and “Explore the Universe”. Okay, so my fellow super macho military members are reading the likes of “Soldier of Fortune” and “Maxim”, while I’m reading geeky stuff that pertains to global events and the solar system. But hey – to each his or her own, right? Finally, after a 7-hour journey of continent hopping, we land at Manas, Kyrgyzstan at 3am. I’m sure you’re asking, “Where in the heck is this place?” Manas is Bishkek’s (the capital) airport and Kyrgyzstan was once a former Soviet republic that borders China. Yes, I believe I’ve landed on the edge of earth…
Local time: +13 hours ahead of California time
Loggies
As Logistics Readiness Officers, we’re also affectionally known as “loggies”. Our job is to get people and cargo from one point to another. Sounds simple until you have to deal with the numerous exceptions to the rule, the many changes, the required documentation for the troops, and the tons of cargo to be prepped and shipped. So, before we even reach Afghanistan I’ve already started working to get us airlift from Manas into our final destination. Our folks check into lodging and I drop my bags but head right out to the Passenger (Pax) Terminal to find the outbound schedule. Cool, there’s a flight scheduled within 6 hours of our arrival. A few minutes later, we check back only to find that we’ve been bumped because the airman who check us in didn’t realize another group had a higher priority. Okay, another mission comes up…then a few minutes later, it disappears. So, this is going to be a tougher challenge than I thought. Finally, we get some dedicated airlift, but there’s only room for two-thirds of our group. I discuss the options with my troop commander and we agree to split the group in two; he would go ahead with the main body, while I would stay back and get the remaining group airlift later in the day.
Manas
So the first group (Chalk 1) departs and the rest of us stay back and relax. None of us had much sleep since leaving England, and it was not about to change since we’re now in broad daylight at Manas. Manas is an interesting spot – it’s officially known as the “Gateway to OEF” as it is the stepping off point for the troops as they head to various undisclosed locations in Afghanistan and neighboring countries.
Dosey doe, and Away we don’t go
While my crew (Chalk 2) is waiting, I check the Recreation Tent out and purchase a beer. It’s our last chance for alcohol, so I order some Russian looking product that’s only $2. Interesting flavor, and as I sip on it, the bus returns – only the Chalk 1 folks are on it! We laugh as they return and then await a couple of more hours. This time, both chalks board buses and head back out to the tarmac. We sit…then sit…then sit. Okay, Chalk 1’s plane is still having problems, and now ours is down for maintenance as well – ugh. So, back to the Pax Terminal and to wait some more. Finally, a few hours later I’m about to make a command decision. My folks have been waiting for 11 hours and most of us have been up for over 24 hours with little or no sleep. At the 12 hour mark, I was calling it quits for the day. But, by some strange luck Chalk 2 gets called up at the 11:40 mark. So, we say bye to Chalk 1, then head out. Only this time we take off! So, now Chalk 1 is stuck in Manas and will have to await another day before getting out.
Afghanistan, here we come
In the C-130, it’s cramped. I’m fortunate enough to sit near a porthole and peer out over the landscape as we leave Manas and fly over Kyrgyzstan, Tajikstan and finally Afghanistan. Snow-covered high mountains dominate the early terrain, giving way to lower mountains and a dark-brown landscape. We finally land at our destination around 5:30pm. It’s hot as hell and the sky is filled with dust and haze…welcome to Afghanistan! We in-process then attend some newcomer meetings. Finally, after staying up for 36 hours straight, I crash…it’s a hard crash and zzzzzzz’s galore.
Local time: +11.5 hours ahead of California time
DAY 3: RAF Mildenhall
Mon, 29 August 2005
Our early departure is now delayed…and delayed…and delayed for a total of 6 hours. So, we’re allowed to walk the base and find the dining hall for some grub. The base is one of only two main U.S. bases left in England – the other one is RAF Lakenheath which is just about 15 miles away. RAF Mildenhall has a lot of historical markers and is very well kept. But alas, we must proceed on our journey and bid farewell to this little bit of heaven we so very much enjoyed.
Our early departure is now delayed…and delayed…and delayed for a total of 6 hours. So, we’re allowed to walk the base and find the dining hall for some grub. The base is one of only two main U.S. bases left in England – the other one is RAF Lakenheath which is just about 15 miles away. RAF Mildenhall has a lot of historical markers and is very well kept. But alas, we must proceed on our journey and bid farewell to this little bit of heaven we so very much enjoyed.
DAY 2: Merry 'ol England
Sun, 28 August 2005
We’re bused to a local English inn called the “Bird in Hand” just outside the base. The long refueling layover has provided us with a unique opportunity – to enjoy the warm afternoon sun while drinking beer and getting some well-deserved down time. This is all so surreal, but I definitely savor the moment and order a pitcher of Guinness Stout and some fish-n-chips. After working my tail off for so many months, it was wonderful to pass the hours away drinking and having a jolly good time with my fellow group members. We then head for bed to prep for an early departure the next morning.
Local time: +7 hours ahead of California time
We’re bused to a local English inn called the “Bird in Hand” just outside the base. The long refueling layover has provided us with a unique opportunity – to enjoy the warm afternoon sun while drinking beer and getting some well-deserved down time. This is all so surreal, but I definitely savor the moment and order a pitcher of Guinness Stout and some fish-n-chips. After working my tail off for so many months, it was wonderful to pass the hours away drinking and having a jolly good time with my fellow group members. We then head for bed to prep for an early departure the next morning.
Local time: +7 hours ahead of California time
DAY 1: Departure
Sat, 27 August 2005
The Mad Scramble and Dash
I got up early and started laundry to prep one last load for my pending deployment. Although our initial deployment date of August 25th had already passed, a delay in airlift indicated that we would not depart for another week. So, as an Assistant Installation Deployment Officer, I was getting ready to head for work and deploy out the other squadron within our unit to an undisclosed location in Africa later that afternoon. Then the phone rings. It’s our command chief and she informs me that they are currently conducting the roll call for my deployment. Wait – I inquire that this roll call must be for the other squadron, right? Wrong! I somehow got left off the notification list from the previous night and thus this is the first time I’m hearing about our new departure time. Panic, panic, panic. Okay, I pause for a moment to think what I need to accomplish -- finish the laundry, pack my bags, perform a few necessary errands, and finally turn in my laptop to my civilian employer. I was planning to leisurely perform these chores over the weekend, but now I had just two hours to complete everything and leave – ugh. After frantically getting everything done that needed to get done, I arrive on station just as the folks were loading their baggage. Whew, just in the nick of time and not a minute to spare. We’re then given an hour for lunch, and then reassemble to be bused to another location for airlift.
KSUU
Some of the folks say goodbye and hug and kiss their families before boarding the bus and departing for our destination at Travis AFB, a 90-minute bus ride in the San Francisco Bay Area. The trip is uneventful, but as I pass Concord I try to call a few friends in the Renegades – a senior drum & bugles corps that I march with. Since I was selected for the deployment, we all knew that my last show with them was at the end of July in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. Wonderful memories I have with this great bunch of people – let’s see, doing run-throughs on a football field in a soaking rainstorm, attack of those pesky black beetles, performing our show at Wake Forest’s Groves Stadium, and then partying all night at the local brew pub (complete with random transvestite). Okay, I’ve digressed a bit. The Renegades have since filled my hole and were gearing up for the DCA World Championships over the upcoming Labor Weekend. Sadly, everyone I call is not answering – they are all out on the field probably going through another run-through on a football field in the hot sun. Alas, we proceed on and arrive at our destination of Travis AFB (KSUU).
Hurry up and Wait
For those folks with a military background, you know exactly what I’m talking about. We were hell-bent on arriving early at Travis AFB, only to wait…and wait…and wait. Finally, in the early evening we head out to the plane – a KC-10 aircraft (military version of a DC-10 with the third engine in the tail fin). The cargo gets lifted in with a K-loader, which is a military flatbed that lifts the cargo to the plane’s cargo bay and then slides the cargo in on rollers. This is an awesome sight to behold and one that I sear into my mind while I chat with my family one last time as they celebrate my nephew’s 5th birthday.
The Arctic Chill
If you’ve traveled on a military aircraft, then you’ll know that the inside of the aircraft is not insulated – unlike a commercial aircraft’s plush interior. There’s not much of a difference at takeoff, but once you’re cruising at 40,000 feet the outside skin starts to chill the cabin air. And boy, does it get cold. In my haste, I leave my sweatshirt in the carry-on that has since been palletized and is unreachable during flight. So, I grab a blanket and try to get some zzz’s to pass the time. The air then really cools, and I start to shiver. As more time passes on, I start to shake so badly that I’m now almost into Stage 1, Hyperthermia. When the cold finally becomes utterly unbearable, the lights come back on just in time and we start the approach to land. I somehow hold on these last few minutes, and as we deplane onto the tarmac I bask in the warm mid-afternoon sun upon our arrival to RAF Mildenhall, UK.
The Mad Scramble and Dash
I got up early and started laundry to prep one last load for my pending deployment. Although our initial deployment date of August 25th had already passed, a delay in airlift indicated that we would not depart for another week. So, as an Assistant Installation Deployment Officer, I was getting ready to head for work and deploy out the other squadron within our unit to an undisclosed location in Africa later that afternoon. Then the phone rings. It’s our command chief and she informs me that they are currently conducting the roll call for my deployment. Wait – I inquire that this roll call must be for the other squadron, right? Wrong! I somehow got left off the notification list from the previous night and thus this is the first time I’m hearing about our new departure time. Panic, panic, panic
KSUU
Some of the folks say goodbye and hug and kiss their families before boarding the bus and departing for our destination at Travis AFB, a 90-minute bus ride in the San Francisco Bay Area. The trip is uneventful, but as I pass Concord I try to call a few friends in the Renegades – a senior drum & bugles corps that I march with. Since I was selected for the deployment, we all knew that my last show with them was at the end of July in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. Wonderful memories I have with this great bunch of people – let’s see, doing run-throughs on a football field in a soaking rainstorm, attack of those pesky black beetles, performing our show at Wake Forest’s Groves Stadium, and then partying all night at the local brew pub (complete with random transvestite). Okay, I’ve digressed a bit. The Renegades have since filled my hole and were gearing up for the DCA World Championships over the upcoming Labor Weekend. Sadly, everyone I call is not answering – they are all out on the field probably going through another run-through on a football field in the hot sun. Alas, we proceed on and arrive at our destination of Travis AFB (KSUU).
Hurry up and Wait
For those folks with a military background, you know exactly what I’m talking about. We were hell-bent on arriving early at Travis AFB, only to wait…and wait…and wait. Finally, in the early evening we head out to the plane – a KC-10 aircraft (military version of a DC-10 with the third engine in the tail fin). The cargo gets lifted in with a K-loader, which is a military flatbed that lifts the cargo to the plane’s cargo bay and then slides the cargo in on rollers. This is an awesome sight to behold and one that I sear into my mind while I chat with my family one last time as they celebrate my nephew’s 5th birthday.
The Arctic Chill
If you’ve traveled on a military aircraft, then you’ll know that the inside of the aircraft is not insulated – unlike a commercial aircraft’s plush interior. There’s not much of a difference at takeoff, but once you’re cruising at 40,000 feet the outside skin starts to chill the cabin air. And boy, does it get cold. In my haste, I leave my sweatshirt in the carry-on that has since been palletized and is unreachable during flight. So, I grab a blanket and try to get some zzz’s to pass the time. The air then really cools, and I start to shiver. As more time passes on, I start to shake so badly that I’m now almost into Stage 1, Hyperthermia. When the cold finally becomes utterly unbearable, the lights come back on just in time and we start the approach to land. I somehow hold on these last few minutes, and as we deplane onto the tarmac I bask in the warm mid-afternoon sun upon our arrival to RAF Mildenhall, UK.
DAY 0: Burning the candle
When I look back over the last few months, it’s just been one big blur. As a traditional guardsman, I’ve been burning the candle at both ends doing double duty as both a Product Management contractor in my civilian job with Silicon Graphics, Inc (SGI) and as a Logistics Readiness Officer (LRO) at my military job. So why am I doing both, you ask? First, I’ve always been a traditional guardsman – aka “weekend warrior” – during my reserve military career and was either pursuing higher education or developing my civilian career within Silicon Valley’s high tech industry. However, 9/11 completely changed the paradigm of a terrorist attack for all Americans. For those of us who were serving in the U.S. military, an additional burden was place to not only defend this country, but to also go to war against the terrorists in their homeland.
Thus, when 9/11 occurred almost 4 years ago, I began a pattern of engaging in my civilian career (graduate business school and a follow-on job with SGI), while staying active with my military unit in their numerous missions to support the Global War on Terrorism. Finally, the need for an LRO appeared and thus I was tapped to support this vital mission in Afghanistan.
Thus, when 9/11 occurred almost 4 years ago, I began a pattern of engaging in my civilian career (graduate business school and a follow-on job with SGI), while staying active with my military unit in their numerous missions to support the Global War on Terrorism. Finally, the need for an LRO appeared and thus I was tapped to support this vital mission in Afghanistan.
INTRODUCTION
Hi and welcome to my blog! This journal will reflect my journey in support of Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF) – a part of the Global War on Terrorism (GWOT) – that was initiated in response to the 9/11 tragedy almost 4 years ago. I’m an Air National Guardsman and was federally activated to serve a short tour in the Air Force in support of my unit’s combat rescue mission.
I’m also a Desert Storm veteran, but this deployment is my first since the early 90’s – and things were very different then. In those days, the local Kuwaitis approached us to genuinely greet and shake our hands for liberating their country. Now we’re not sure if the local Iraqis and Afghanis are friendly or are suicide bombers waiting to martyr themselves by taking as many lives along with theirs. The innocence and euphoria of defeating Saddam Hussein in 1991 has given away to a harsh reality in 2005 of an embedded and lethal insurgency in Iraq. In Afghanistan, things are going a little bit better for the Coalition and American forces, but this war is now overlooked in the minds of Americans as our focus continues to watch the death toll pile up in Iraq.
Whatever your political background lies, I hope you take away from this blog a better understanding of what our American troops are doing here in Afghanistan. I consider myself an independent thinker, but I’m also very dedicated to this specific mission because of its purpose – to catch Osama bin Laden and destroy the al-Qaida network of terrorists for what they did to us. I’m also bounded by Operational Security (OPSEC) requirements and thus will need to sanitize details to ensure that I do not compromise information that will help the enemy.
Many of my family and friends back home are all concerned for my safety, but have also wished me well in this dangerous mission. My intent focus is to perform my part of this crucial mission and to come home safely and share stories and pictures with loved ones upon my return. Thank you for taking some of your time to read my story.
>> Al
I’m also a Desert Storm veteran, but this deployment is my first since the early 90’s – and things were very different then. In those days, the local Kuwaitis approached us to genuinely greet and shake our hands for liberating their country. Now we’re not sure if the local Iraqis and Afghanis are friendly or are suicide bombers waiting to martyr themselves by taking as many lives along with theirs. The innocence and euphoria of defeating Saddam Hussein in 1991 has given away to a harsh reality in 2005 of an embedded and lethal insurgency in Iraq. In Afghanistan, things are going a little bit better for the Coalition and American forces, but this war is now overlooked in the minds of Americans as our focus continues to watch the death toll pile up in Iraq.
Whatever your political background lies, I hope you take away from this blog a better understanding of what our American troops are doing here in Afghanistan. I consider myself an independent thinker, but I’m also very dedicated to this specific mission because of its purpose – to catch Osama bin Laden and destroy the al-Qaida network of terrorists for what they did to us. I’m also bounded by Operational Security (OPSEC) requirements and thus will need to sanitize details to ensure that I do not compromise information that will help the enemy.
Many of my family and friends back home are all concerned for my safety, but have also wished me well in this dangerous mission. My intent focus is to perform my part of this crucial mission and to come home safely and share stories and pictures with loved ones upon my return. Thank you for taking some of your time to read my story.
>> Al
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