In Response

Okay, I will go in order per the comments posted on my last blog.

Susannah,
As you said it is a war so I can understand the worry. But I also know everything will be okay. As for the Airport, I would let you know the time, but to be honest, I am not even 100% sure on the date. April ninth is a tentative date, meaning it may be different. It will most likely be the ninth but I was told it could be a day or two later. I will know the date and time when I get my itinerary. That could be as soon as this weekend when I am on base for UTA, or it could be as late as a day or two before I go. Part of our Squadron deployed this last weekend (some on Saturday, some on Sunday) and the didn't get their itinerary until Thursday. That being said, I will gladly let people know when I do, but due to the short notice, I will understand if people can't make it, and just knowing you wanted to is good.

Alison,
My official job title is Air transportation. That means anything that that goes on or off an Air Force trasnsport plane (a cargo plane) goes through us. For example, people, basic cargo, mail, weapons, humvees, tanks even helicopters. And of course other things but you get the idea. Air Transportation is split up into a few different areas, but basically we prepair whatever is being trasported for transport, load and secure the load, and when it gets to its destination, unload, breakdown and make sure everything gets to it's intended recipient. As of right now, I am assigned to Cargo but more specifically Special Handeling when I get to Iraq. But that could change to give us experience in multiple areas.

Amy,
To be honest with you, being away from Marni and the kids is the hardest part about going, and I worry about that more than I do about any possible danger. When I first found out I was on the Alternate list we went through a processing line. Normally it is what you do jsut before deploying to make sure you have everything done in preperation for deployment, from paperwork to vaccinations. We did it just to see where we were, so we would know what else we needed to do before going, and to start our vaccinations. In that line I was told that we would be given 3 fifteen minute phone calls per week to talk to family. That is more than during basic, but still is not much time. It turns out that is the standard, or the general rule. Luckily because I am Air Force, and because I am in a job that keeps me on a base, the rule doesn't exactly apply. We will still be give our 3 fifteen minute calls, but as I mentioned before, we will also have internet access. So in addition to e-mail, I will be able to do video chats with them, as much as everyday. Although it does not take the place of being with them like now, it will definately make it a lot easier.