– The following post is by Dianne Henderson, Red Cross worker deployed in Balad, Iraq

Almost two weeks here in Balad, Iraq.

My start here was a bit shaky but it’s been smooth sailing ever since. I did hit the ground literally after stepping off the C-130. The ride was exciting and the flight approximately one hour from Kuwait. I was gathering all of my gear together after meeting the current team who were going to take us to go see our new quarters. I started to walk over to where my team was standing, but didn’t see the small red cigarette butt can in front of me. I tripped over it gashing my shin and not to mention my pride. All of my gear went flying and many people came to my aid extending their hands. What a start to my adventure!

Since the first day we arrived a routine has set in which has been very welcome. Everyday seems to bring some surprise or novelty. I saw two Iraqi shieks in their flowing robes and top military advisors touring or inspecting DFAC (dining facility) #3 one day when I went to lunch. The first day I volunteered at the Balad Hospital, I was asked to help transport an Iraqi detainee from his bed to the emergency room and then on to an awaiting helicopter returning him and his guards to a detainee prison in Baghdad. He was blindfolded and I learned how to prepare the bed, ID him, move him, and load him onto the copter.

Filed under: SAF