Operation Links - Day 7

December 2nd, 2008

We woke up around 0600, gathered our stuff, ate breakfast and headed to the flightline. Today we are in the hands of the Japanese Air Force on a C130 transport. We’re leaving Baghdad at 0920, heading back to Kuwait, where we’ll have an 8-hour layover at a hotel before the flight back to the states. I calculate it will be 40 hours door-to-door from Camp Victory to D/FW International Airport. There are soldiers on-board with us, all of whom are heading home.

Our original security detail meets us in Kuwait. I was so glad to see them, because it meant I wouldn’t be needing to wear the 40-pound body armor and kevlar helmet any longer. We of course went to the DFAC (Dining Facility) one more time, then found our luggage. We headed to the hotel to get some rest.

Our group has been amazing. I guess if you want to get to know who somebody really is, go with them on a USO tour for 8 days in Kuwait/Iraq. You will find out what they are all about. We have gone through an emotional roller-coaster together, bearing witness to things you can’t imagine. The men and women in the armed services are a special breed, they care so much for the safety and security of our country. Every day, these soldiers see memories of 9-11, the day that changed the world forever. They don’t want to see that happen again.

We gathered in the hotel lobby around 9:30 p.m. Just as we were leaving for Kuwait International airport and our 12:40 a.m. flight home, Senators John McCain and Joe Lieberman arrived at the hotel. These U.S. political leaders were coming to visit our troops in the field and meet with the top brass. We signed some team posters and golf hats for them.

At the airport, we say our good-byes to the security detail. They’ve been awesome and taken great care of us.

It is time to get back to reality. My wife Chelly, son Zachary and daughter Hannah spent another Thanksgiving holiday week without me. They know the purpose of the mission and supported my decision to go. I can’t wait to see them tomorrow afternoon.

- Art

Entry Filed under: General