The trip to Kuwait

The trip over to Kuwait was long, tiring, but some good things happened. First, when we arrived at the airport in Columbia, South Carolina, there were several groups there to meet us and see us off. They had food and small things for us and we were able to talk to them for a few hours before boarding the plane. It was very nice to see the support! When we landed in Bangor Maine at 1130pm, we were surprised to see that there were a few groups there to meet us and provide some stuff during our two hours on the ground there. They even opened up one of the giftshops and one of the resturants in the airport for us. Finally, when we arrived in Shannon Ireland, we had a long walk from the gate to the waiting area in the international terminal. All along the walk, there were gates for domestic and international flights separated from us by a glass wall. I was very surprised that the entire walk (probably past 15-20 gates) people stood and cheered us thanking us in Irish, British, American, and other accents. Then in the food court (Pub) in the waiting area, we received a standing ovation. It is very nice to know that 7 years into the Global War on Terrorism people are still appreciative of what we are doing and that that appreciation transends country boundries!!! I truly believe in what I am doing here and I think I will look back on this as the most rewarding experience in my 20+ years in the Navy! I am very greatful to my wonderful family for their love and support during this deployment!!! GOD BLESS AMERICA!!!!