Balad Iraq: The Clock has Started

Last night at 11pm I finally made it to Balad Air Base in Iraq. I arrived via a C-130. A C-130 is an older plane, but used due to its ability to make quick fast landings. Belive me that is exactly what we did!!! You sit in the back in jump seats (nylon mesh) knee to knee with someone across from you, with bullet proof vest (IBA) and helmet on. This particular pilot was good the landing was smoother than any commercial flight I have been on. Today will be my first full day in Balad. I have my room and the guy I am replacing has been great at getting me oriented and into the groove of taking over his spot. The hospital lay out is great, everything flows so nicely. ER to ct scanner to OR and lastly to ICU or ward. The base itself is dry and dusty but there are a few signs of vegetation on and around the base. Pictures to come!! Thanks to everyone for there thoughts and prayers on my travel to Balad.

Al Udeid, Quatar

After 25 + hours of traveling and watching two sunrises I made it to Al Udeid. Definitely, the sunrise was much more impressive over the green lush landscape of Ireland compared to the sunrise over the barren dessert of Al Udeid. It was impressive flying over Iraq and Kuwait and seeing hundreds of pulsating flames from the oil fields in the dark as we made our way to Al Udeid. After 6 hours of immigrating into the country and receiving yet another bag full of gear I finally was given a bunk bed assignment in a tent on the Coalition Camp. Taking a shower and putting on AF pt shorts and shirt never felt so good! 

Shanon, Ireland

Made it to Ireland for a change of crew and to refuel. Flight was long as you might expect. For those of you worried that the govt was going to spend a lot of money on airfare to Iraq, you will be pleased to know they reserved the big plane for lots of people and no leg room!! Luckily no one sat in between me and another Major. Next stop Kuwait!

Crossfit Norfolk

While waiting for my flight I have hung out at the Liberty Cafe on Norfolk Naval Base and got in a workout...Stubio B style. PULL UPS NO MAS!!! 

Norfolk, VA

It was difficult saying bye to Julie, Spencer, Dylan and my mom at the airport. Spencer said it best "Why does the Air Force send people to Iraq, to make families sad?" It definitely was sad but I think we were all ready to get the clock rolling. It was reassuring to know that my efforts and strain on our family was not unnoticed, several passengers at the Atlanta airport came up to us and thanked us for our service and our work overseas. I made it to Norfolk at midnight and checked in at the military airport on the naval station. My flight leaves tonight at midnight with stops at Maine, Ireland, Kuwait, and Al Udeid. I will spend a day or two there prior to flying to Balad.

The day has come...

Well today at 1300 I received word that my travel arrangements were being made and by the way you are leaving tomorrow. At 1730 I received a call stating that my itinerary was being e-mailed to me for a flight out at 1545 on 22 July. After checking my e-mail I did have a flight to Norfolk, Va but of course nothing else past that. So I guess more to come....

Getting Ready to go to Balad.

I am creating this blog to try and keep anyone who is interested in the loop of my upcoming deployment to Iraq. Most friends and family know that I will be leaving some time this week. I hope to include pictures and hopefully share some thoughts while I am gone for 6 months. My address will be: Maj Brendan Farrell

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