Joe Mercurio
Traveler Name:
Joe Mercurio
Adventure:
Armed Forces Entertainment: Operation: Catch Fish
Joe Mercurio
Adventure:
Armed Forces Entertainment: Operation: Catch Fish
Flash Title: Operation: Catch Fish
Check out Joe Mercurio on The Big Show with John Boy and Billy. You can listen to his interview on the show above.
“Professional Tarpon Tournament Series (PTTS)” television show host Joe Mercurio traveled with Armed Forces Entertainment to hold the first-of-its-kind fishing derby, Operation: Catch Fish. Military personnel fished the lakes and ponds of the area to win a variety of prizes for participation and higher-end prizes were awarded for Most Fish Caught, Biggest Fish and Smallest Fish.
Joined by his co-host of “PTTS” Kristen Berset, Mercurio and his knowledgeable team brought their angling expertise to head up this fishing derby in hopes to offer an experience that serves as entertainment and a distraction for the troops. The entire trip and fishing derby was filmed by Reel Time Productions to be broadcasted at a later time.
Check out Joe's Daily Blogs and pictures from the trip!!!!
Day 3
Call time this morning was 0615. I ended up not getting to sleep last night until 0200, so I was running on near empty all day. We were met in the lobby by Gunner Martinez and 4 civilian contractors tasked as our security, drivers, and assistants. We started the day with a trip to the warehouse to check on the pallets of swag we shipped over. All told we, through the help of generous companies, and citizens, shipped nearly 12,000 lbs of gear over. 250 rods and reels, hundreds of artificial baits, over 1500 T Shirts, 500 hats and Costa Del Mar donated 200 pairs of Tropic Star, impact resistant, sunglasses with interchangeable lenses. Our goal was to give every service member we met something as a thank you. Fortunately, all the gear made it safe and sound and in great shape.
Our first stop was at the Garrison Command Center. The Garrison Commander is in charge of all things on the base. He is like the Mayor of a city. He needs to implement HR policies, make sure security is right, utilities are functioning, and all is well on base. At Arifjan, the duties are more intense because of the amount of troops coming in and out of theater. The Garrison Commander was out today so in his stead we met with Deputy Garrsion Commander LTC Pendergast. LTC Pendergast welcomed us to Kuwait and thanked us for making the trip over. He told us about Camp Arifjan. Camp Arifjan is a new $200 million state-of-the-art facility built courtesy of the Kuwaiti government. This new Army base has literally risen out of the sand. The Army component of US Central Command (USCENTCOM), US Army Forces Central Command (ARCENT), maintains a forward presence at Camp Arifjan. The 3rd Army, which you Military buffs know, is "Patton's Own", the Army Division General George Patton Commanded during World War II, is the Command component at Arifjan. Nearly all of the supplies needed by our troops in Iraq and Afghanistan flow through Camp Arifjan. He wanted us to know that the Kuwaiti people were thankful for us liberating them from Iraqi control during Desert Storm. He explained how the Kuwaiti Government gives them FREE fuel, no rent, and pays for nearly all new construction on the base. He also told us a little known fact that when Hurricane Katrina devistated the Gulf Coast, the Kuwaiti Royal family donated $500 million dollars to the Katrina Fund to help the victims. You never heard that on your nightly news. LTC Pendergast's talk was very informative and it was nice to know that the sacrifice of America's troops, and Americans tax dollars was appreciated by the Kuwaiti people and government. At the end of his talk he presented each one of us with a certificate of appreciation and the Garrison Command Challenge Coin. We, in turn, presented him with our unit, OCF coin.
Challenge Coins:
There is a great story on how challenge coins came to be here (http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/library/news/2005/03/mil-050304-usmc03.htm). The short version is every member of the military carries their unit coin, if they are "challenged" to produce it, and don't have it, they have to buy a round of drinks. The coins are now traded between deployed service members and are also awarded meritoriously for a job well done. Knowing all this we made up our own unit coin to give out as awards.
After our Meet and Greet at the Garrison Command we headed to the Zone 6 MWR Center for our first troop Meet and Greet. The Center was decent size and had 2 pool tables, a ping pong table, small library of books, big screen TV, and a number of couches. We sat down and started signing and giving away shirts. All told we met around 100 troops. It was great. We heard stories, answered questions, and thanked them for their service. The guys and girls there are often forgotten as they are not the fighting force you hear about on TV everyday, never the less, they are the ones who keep the fighting force supplied. We met a group of Navy Chiefs from the Customs Battalion and had a great chat. One of the Chiefs was from Alaska and he told me about the great halibut fishing and how he was excited to get home before the season began in August. After an hour there we headed to the DFAC for lunch.
Never being in the Military I had no idea what to expect of our lodging and dining arrangements. My only knowledge was what I had seen on TV or in the movies. I can tell you I was completely shocked when I entered the DFAC. It looked like a typical cafeteria. Lots of long tables. The food and drink was the big surprise. They had everything. Hamburgers, Hot Dogs, Steak, Macaroni, I mean anything you could imagine, even dessert in the form of ice cream or fresh baked cakes! Drinks the same way, all Coke and Pepsi products, bottled water of course, fruit juices, milk, it goes on and on. A total shock from what you see in the movies. Those of you thinking we were getting to eat somewhere special, think again. This was an ordinary day, and the same great food and drink is served four times daily for the service members.
After lunch we headed to Camp Patriot, on the shores of the Persian Gulf. About a 30 minute drive from Arifjan. We traveled in unmarked, Suburbans, convoy style. It was daytime so we were able to see Kuwait, at least from the Highway. It's a desert, about what you would expect, scattered arid plants, power lines paralleling. Outside of the occasional Camel, and Arab writing on the signs, your would think your were in the SW US. We shortly arrived at Camp Patriot.
Patriot is a Naval Base, owned by the Army, and run by the Air Force. Yes I typed that right. Crazy I know, but it's the Government. The base sits on the shores of the Persian Gulf. Liberty is the port used to unload supplies coming in via ship to support the War effort. It hosts a variety of vessels from Army and Navy ships, to Naval Patrol Boats, and I saw a US Coast Guard Cutter in port. We met with the CO (Commanding Officer) an Air Force Captain who presented us with their unit coin and a certificate of appreciation. The Captain told us they had a special treat for us. We were going to get to go on patrol with a Naval Patrol Boat Crew. I was pumped up. We headed to the docks to meet the crews and head out. We were met by Commanding Officer, Boat Division, Naval Coastal Warfare Squadron Forward, Master Chief TJ O'Malley, Jr., and the crews from Inshore Boat Unit 21 & 22. We boarded the 27 foot, jet powered, Patrol Boats and headed out. Each boat had of 6 men, 3 Gunners, an Engineer, Coxswain (driver), and the Executive Officer. The boats are outfitted with three .50 Cal. machine guns. The main function of IBU 21 & 22 is to provide Port Security and protect the vessels loading and unloading cargo. The boat ride was awesome. I could not believe I was on a boat cruising the Persian Gulf. It was surreal. The boats were great, agile, and could clearly take rough water, but the water was calm. The Gulf water looked just like the Gulf of Mexico. Emerald Green water, it was really neat to see. They allowed me to drive the boat and it was great. I got her up to around 45 MPH and did some evasive turns. What an experience. After a half hour on patrol we headed back to Port. When we reached the dock, Chief O'Malley had a presentation ready. He awarded me a Combat Area Presentation Flag, that was flown on IBU 21, and also gave me orders making me an honorary member of IBU 21. It was an honor. We said our goodbye's and headed back to Arifjan.
Upon arrival it was chow time. We headed to the DFAC and ate. Gunner said there was an off chance that we would be able to meet with ***, Lt. General James Lovelace, ARCENT Commander and I was excited about this possibility. After that we wanted to do a little shopping, and were awaiting word from the Generals office on the meeting, so Gunner Martinez took us to the (PX) Post Exchange. The PX is a mini General Store. The troops say they have everything you need, but not always what you want. I saw everything from clothing, to food, Ipods, phone chargers, combat supplies, to Big screen TV's. I picked up a few T's and some other misc. gear and we got word the General would see us.
We rushed over to his office and was greeted by his staff. We knew we did not have a lot of time with him as he was very busy, but we wanted to thank him for having us and present him with out coin. We were escorted in and met the General. He was a great guy, very sociable. A southerner from Virginia with a heavy accent. He asked us to sit and chat with him. He told us that he was thankful we made the trip over and he knew we would be a hit with the troops. He told us how proud he was of the "kids" he called them, fighting the battles and said that they deserve the support of the folks back home. We took some pics with him, thanked him again for his time, and headed out.
By now it was 2200 and it had been a long day. We headed back to our barracks to get some shut eye. Tomorrow we depart for Ali Asaleem Air Force Base at 0600, where we catch a ride on an Air Force C130 and head into Iraq. First stop, Camp Diamondback, Mosul, Iraq. It's 2330, I'm tired, dusty, and need a hot shower. I am doing that, and going to bed.
Out Here.
Joe Mercurio
Day 2
I awoke this morning anxious to get underway. Our itinerary had us leaving TIA (Tampa International Airport) at 18:30, where we connected at Dulles International in D.C., and started our journey downrange to the Middle East, our scheduled arrival time was 1730 in Kuwait, where we were to meet USMC Chief Warrant Officer Randall Martinez, who I know as "Gunner". Kuwait and Iraq are 8 hours ahead of EST, so we lost a day to travel. I drew the right straw and had Kristen Berset (PTTS Co Host) as my seat mate. Cameraman/Crew Chief Ray Combs, Cameraman Greig, and Eric sat somewhere else, along with Major Steve Mathews, our CENTCOM liason officer, and Colonel Sopher and Lt. Colonel Dan McCarroll, who were on TDY (Temporary Duty Orders) to go to Iraq and work on some "business".
The ride to Dulles was uneventful. Upon arrival the anxiousness was building as we all knew the next plane was the true start of our journey to the Middle East. We boarded 30 minutes early for the 9:30 scheduled plane flight. The plane was packed. Mostly populated by service members and US Government contractors heading back overseas from leave. I saw very few "locals" on the plane. We were wheels up on time and were starting our 12 hour flight to Kuwait. Kristen and I chatted for a bit and then we dawned the headphones. I watched the "Game Plan", the movie featuring The Rock. It wasn't good, but there were a couple laughs and it was enough to burn some time. My gameplan was to stay awake for 4 or 5 hours and take the Ambien to knock me out, waking up in time to get off the plane. It worked!
We arrived at KCIA (Kuwait City International Airport) about 15 minutes early. I think we were all ready to get off the bird. We deplaned and put our feet on Kuwait soil for the first time. As we exited the jet way in to the terminal you could tell we were in an Arab country. All of the women were completely covered except for the eyes and many of the men were adorned with their traditional dress. We headed for immigration and customs. It was surprisingly easy. Our visas cost 2 Kuwaiti Dollars, the equivalent of $12.00 US. Nice exchange rate, huh. We picked up our gear which consisted of personal baggage as well as camera gear. In total 14 pieces of luggage! We were at the final baggage check and I got yanked. A Kuwaiti Police Officer pulled my backpack off of the X Ray line and wanted to search it. He started emptying it out and asking about my pills, coins, and other personal items. He remarked as he pulled out three DVD's "John Wayne". I said, "Yep. He's one of my favorites.", he agreed and said I was good to go. We proceeded out of the secure area where we met Gunner and his team of security officers, all in plain clothes. We loaded the three trucks and headed for Camp Arifjan, our home for the next two nights.
It was about a forty minute drive. It went by quick. I rapid fired Gunner with a million questions and soaked in what little scenery we could see because it was at night. We arrived at a heavily secured Camp Arifjan about forty minutes later, downloaded the gear, and checked in to our rooms. Our home is the DV (Distinguished Visitors) quarters, which also serves as a temporary housing facility for troops heading in our out of the theater. The building is nothing special, but actually more than I expected. I have my own room, about 8x10 with a small dresser, nightstand with lamp, and bed.
Everyone had 30 min. to get settled and then we were meeting in the lobby to get some chow. The DFAC (Dining Facility) was closed so we went to the fast food area. There were 4 trailers and we had choices. Taco Bell, Burger King, Pizza Hut, and Nathans. I chose Nathans and had two hot dogs and a soda! Certainly not what I expected my first meal to be in Kuwait, but it was great. We ate quickly and headed back to our quarters to get some sleep.
Call time for tomorrow is 0615. The plan is to go check the pallets of swag we sent over to make sure all arrived safe and sound and grab some giveaways for the day and start our visits. On the agenda is a meet and greet at the Garrison Commanders Office, a visit to the MWR (Morale Welfare and Recreation) Center in Zone 6 of the Base, and a trip to Camp Liberty, on the shore of the Persian Gulf. All of that while trying to manage jet lag! I can't wait.
Out Here.
Joe Mercurio
Day 1
Hey Costa Crazies! Joe Mercurio here. Tomorrow is Day 1 of Operation: Catch Fish (OCF). I leave tomorrow from Tampa International Airport (TIA) en route for Kuwait City International Airport (KCIA). I spent this morning putting checking my gear one last time, making sure I brought everything, and it feels like I did. My big bag is definitely gonna be over weight. I have been watching the weather online closely and it looks like we may be dealing with a wide variety of temps. I have seen forecasts for everything from 35 degrees to 80 degrees. Hence the packing of so many clothes. It's also unclear what opportunity, if any I will have to get some laundry done. Mostly I have packed combat style cargo pants, fishing shirts, and plenty of my OCF T's. I've got my Yamaha foul weather gear, and two pairs of boots. Most everything else is your standard stuff. Meds are a big deal. I have allergies and don't wanna get bogged down by a congested head so I packed plenty of that stuff. I am also gonna try Ambien to cut down on jet lag. Never used it before, so we'll see how it works.
I left the house in Sarasota around 1000 and headed to Tampa. Rally point for the rest of the crew was Macdill Air Force Base. We had a 1200 call time to meet and a 1300 mission briefing from Col. Terry Sopher, Deputy Director of the Joint Inter Agency Cooperation Group (JIACG), Central Command (CENTCOM), followed by a Cultural Orientation briefing from Major Sharief Fahmy, US Air Force. I arrived early and was met by our liaison officer Major Steve Mathews. Soon after Eric, Ray, Grieg, and Kristen arrived. We headed inside for the briefs.
Major Fahmy began as the Col. was running a little behind. His briefing was designed to educate us on the Islamic religion, Muslim beliefs, local customs, and Do's and Don'ts. The briefing was enlightening. I had some knowledge on Islam from High School and College World Religeon classes, but nothing like this. He covered the total history of Islam, how it was formed, and the major Islamic beliefs, of which Peace through submission to God is the cornerstone of the faith. The religeon takes beliefs from Judiasm and Christianity and adds teachings from Mohammed, their holiest prophet. After the religion course we turned to local customs and Do's and Don'ts. A short list, but an important one.
1. Do Drink the Tea. (Tea is an offering.)
2. Shake with the Right hand. (In the desert the left hand is used for personal hygiene cleaning. You figure it out.)
3. Accept graciously. (You can't be too thankful.)
4. Allow them in to your bubble, and respect their bubble. (The people can be very touchy feely. It is a sign of trust.)
5. Make eye contact. (Similar to USA)
6. DO be proud to be an American. (No problem there.)
These were all important lessons as the last thing we want to do is upset any local folks. We want to be good guests. I do not think we will have to much interaction with locals except at the airports, which I am sure will be a lot.
Col. Sopher entered as Major Fahmy was nearly finished and all military personell in the room quickly stood up at attention. This was kind of neat to see. Col. Sopher and I our friends. I know him as Terry. Some of you may know him as the angler who caught the 216 lb Tarpon in the PTTS a few years back. He still hold the tourney record. Here he was a Col., not the friend and angler I knew him as. Pretty cool stuff. Col. Sopher's briefing focused on our mission, a background history on Kuwait and Iraq, and history on Operation Iraqi Freedom. Most of you remember in the early 90's Iraq invaded Kuwait in an effort to gain control of the Arabian Gulf. Iraq's forces were quickly defeated by the USA during Operation Desert Storm aka the 100 hour war. Since then Kuwait has been an allie of ours. In 2003 we entered Iraq after Sadaam Hussein refused to comply with UN sanctions and continued to perpetuate acts of violence and genocide against his people. Fears he was also aiding terrorist organizations combined with the others brought about OIF. Since 2003 we have been in Iraq and currently nearly 150,000 US Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, Marines, and Coast Guardsmen are in theater. After the background on the conflict Col. Sopher went in to some safety and information. The briefing ended and we shot some B roll and headed to the hotel where I am now. I am going to eat a steak have a cocktail and hit the rack.
We depart a 1830 tomorow bound for KCIA by way of Washington Dulles. I'll check back in tomorow from Kuwait. Out Here.
Joe Mercurio
“Professional Tarpon Tournament Series (PTTS)” television show host Joe Mercurio traveled with Armed Forces Entertainment to hold the first-of-its-kind fishing derby, Operation: Catch Fish. Military personnel fished the lakes and ponds of the area to win a variety of prizes for participation and higher-end prizes were awarded for Most Fish Caught, Biggest Fish and Smallest Fish.
Joined by his co-host of “PTTS” Kristen Berset, Mercurio and his knowledgeable team brought their angling expertise to head up this fishing derby in hopes to offer an experience that serves as entertainment and a distraction for the troops. The entire trip and fishing derby was filmed by Reel Time Productions to be broadcasted at a later time.
Check out Joe's Daily Blogs and pictures from the trip!!!!
Day 3
Call time this morning was 0615. I ended up not getting to sleep last night until 0200, so I was running on near empty all day. We were met in the lobby by Gunner Martinez and 4 civilian contractors tasked as our security, drivers, and assistants. We started the day with a trip to the warehouse to check on the pallets of swag we shipped over. All told we, through the help of generous companies, and citizens, shipped nearly 12,000 lbs of gear over. 250 rods and reels, hundreds of artificial baits, over 1500 T Shirts, 500 hats and Costa Del Mar donated 200 pairs of Tropic Star, impact resistant, sunglasses with interchangeable lenses. Our goal was to give every service member we met something as a thank you. Fortunately, all the gear made it safe and sound and in great shape.
Our first stop was at the Garrison Command Center. The Garrison Commander is in charge of all things on the base. He is like the Mayor of a city. He needs to implement HR policies, make sure security is right, utilities are functioning, and all is well on base. At Arifjan, the duties are more intense because of the amount of troops coming in and out of theater. The Garrison Commander was out today so in his stead we met with Deputy Garrsion Commander LTC Pendergast. LTC Pendergast welcomed us to Kuwait and thanked us for making the trip over. He told us about Camp Arifjan. Camp Arifjan is a new $200 million state-of-the-art facility built courtesy of the Kuwaiti government. This new Army base has literally risen out of the sand. The Army component of US Central Command (USCENTCOM), US Army Forces Central Command (ARCENT), maintains a forward presence at Camp Arifjan. The 3rd Army, which you Military buffs know, is "Patton's Own", the Army Division General George Patton Commanded during World War II, is the Command component at Arifjan. Nearly all of the supplies needed by our troops in Iraq and Afghanistan flow through Camp Arifjan. He wanted us to know that the Kuwaiti people were thankful for us liberating them from Iraqi control during Desert Storm. He explained how the Kuwaiti Government gives them FREE fuel, no rent, and pays for nearly all new construction on the base. He also told us a little known fact that when Hurricane Katrina devistated the Gulf Coast, the Kuwaiti Royal family donated $500 million dollars to the Katrina Fund to help the victims. You never heard that on your nightly news. LTC Pendergast's talk was very informative and it was nice to know that the sacrifice of America's troops, and Americans tax dollars was appreciated by the Kuwaiti people and government. At the end of his talk he presented each one of us with a certificate of appreciation and the Garrison Command Challenge Coin. We, in turn, presented him with our unit, OCF coin.
Challenge Coins:
There is a great story on how challenge coins came to be here (http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/library/news/2005/03/mil-050304-usmc03.htm). The short version is every member of the military carries their unit coin, if they are "challenged" to produce it, and don't have it, they have to buy a round of drinks. The coins are now traded between deployed service members and are also awarded meritoriously for a job well done. Knowing all this we made up our own unit coin to give out as awards.
After our Meet and Greet at the Garrison Command we headed to the Zone 6 MWR Center for our first troop Meet and Greet. The Center was decent size and had 2 pool tables, a ping pong table, small library of books, big screen TV, and a number of couches. We sat down and started signing and giving away shirts. All told we met around 100 troops. It was great. We heard stories, answered questions, and thanked them for their service. The guys and girls there are often forgotten as they are not the fighting force you hear about on TV everyday, never the less, they are the ones who keep the fighting force supplied. We met a group of Navy Chiefs from the Customs Battalion and had a great chat. One of the Chiefs was from Alaska and he told me about the great halibut fishing and how he was excited to get home before the season began in August. After an hour there we headed to the DFAC for lunch.
Never being in the Military I had no idea what to expect of our lodging and dining arrangements. My only knowledge was what I had seen on TV or in the movies. I can tell you I was completely shocked when I entered the DFAC. It looked like a typical cafeteria. Lots of long tables. The food and drink was the big surprise. They had everything. Hamburgers, Hot Dogs, Steak, Macaroni, I mean anything you could imagine, even dessert in the form of ice cream or fresh baked cakes! Drinks the same way, all Coke and Pepsi products, bottled water of course, fruit juices, milk, it goes on and on. A total shock from what you see in the movies. Those of you thinking we were getting to eat somewhere special, think again. This was an ordinary day, and the same great food and drink is served four times daily for the service members.
After lunch we headed to Camp Patriot, on the shores of the Persian Gulf. About a 30 minute drive from Arifjan. We traveled in unmarked, Suburbans, convoy style. It was daytime so we were able to see Kuwait, at least from the Highway. It's a desert, about what you would expect, scattered arid plants, power lines paralleling. Outside of the occasional Camel, and Arab writing on the signs, your would think your were in the SW US. We shortly arrived at Camp Patriot.
Patriot is a Naval Base, owned by the Army, and run by the Air Force. Yes I typed that right. Crazy I know, but it's the Government. The base sits on the shores of the Persian Gulf. Liberty is the port used to unload supplies coming in via ship to support the War effort. It hosts a variety of vessels from Army and Navy ships, to Naval Patrol Boats, and I saw a US Coast Guard Cutter in port. We met with the CO (Commanding Officer) an Air Force Captain who presented us with their unit coin and a certificate of appreciation. The Captain told us they had a special treat for us. We were going to get to go on patrol with a Naval Patrol Boat Crew. I was pumped up. We headed to the docks to meet the crews and head out. We were met by Commanding Officer, Boat Division, Naval Coastal Warfare Squadron Forward, Master Chief TJ O'Malley, Jr., and the crews from Inshore Boat Unit 21 & 22. We boarded the 27 foot, jet powered, Patrol Boats and headed out. Each boat had of 6 men, 3 Gunners, an Engineer, Coxswain (driver), and the Executive Officer. The boats are outfitted with three .50 Cal. machine guns. The main function of IBU 21 & 22 is to provide Port Security and protect the vessels loading and unloading cargo. The boat ride was awesome. I could not believe I was on a boat cruising the Persian Gulf. It was surreal. The boats were great, agile, and could clearly take rough water, but the water was calm. The Gulf water looked just like the Gulf of Mexico. Emerald Green water, it was really neat to see. They allowed me to drive the boat and it was great. I got her up to around 45 MPH and did some evasive turns. What an experience. After a half hour on patrol we headed back to Port. When we reached the dock, Chief O'Malley had a presentation ready. He awarded me a Combat Area Presentation Flag, that was flown on IBU 21, and also gave me orders making me an honorary member of IBU 21. It was an honor. We said our goodbye's and headed back to Arifjan.
Upon arrival it was chow time. We headed to the DFAC and ate. Gunner said there was an off chance that we would be able to meet with ***, Lt. General James Lovelace, ARCENT Commander and I was excited about this possibility. After that we wanted to do a little shopping, and were awaiting word from the Generals office on the meeting, so Gunner Martinez took us to the (PX) Post Exchange. The PX is a mini General Store. The troops say they have everything you need, but not always what you want. I saw everything from clothing, to food, Ipods, phone chargers, combat supplies, to Big screen TV's. I picked up a few T's and some other misc. gear and we got word the General would see us.
We rushed over to his office and was greeted by his staff. We knew we did not have a lot of time with him as he was very busy, but we wanted to thank him for having us and present him with out coin. We were escorted in and met the General. He was a great guy, very sociable. A southerner from Virginia with a heavy accent. He asked us to sit and chat with him. He told us that he was thankful we made the trip over and he knew we would be a hit with the troops. He told us how proud he was of the "kids" he called them, fighting the battles and said that they deserve the support of the folks back home. We took some pics with him, thanked him again for his time, and headed out.
By now it was 2200 and it had been a long day. We headed back to our barracks to get some shut eye. Tomorrow we depart for Ali Asaleem Air Force Base at 0600, where we catch a ride on an Air Force C130 and head into Iraq. First stop, Camp Diamondback, Mosul, Iraq. It's 2330, I'm tired, dusty, and need a hot shower. I am doing that, and going to bed.
Out Here.
Joe Mercurio
Day 2
I awoke this morning anxious to get underway. Our itinerary had us leaving TIA (Tampa International Airport) at 18:30, where we connected at Dulles International in D.C., and started our journey downrange to the Middle East, our scheduled arrival time was 1730 in Kuwait, where we were to meet USMC Chief Warrant Officer Randall Martinez, who I know as "Gunner". Kuwait and Iraq are 8 hours ahead of EST, so we lost a day to travel. I drew the right straw and had Kristen Berset (PTTS Co Host) as my seat mate. Cameraman/Crew Chief Ray Combs, Cameraman Greig, and Eric sat somewhere else, along with Major Steve Mathews, our CENTCOM liason officer, and Colonel Sopher and Lt. Colonel Dan McCarroll, who were on TDY (Temporary Duty Orders) to go to Iraq and work on some "business".
The ride to Dulles was uneventful. Upon arrival the anxiousness was building as we all knew the next plane was the true start of our journey to the Middle East. We boarded 30 minutes early for the 9:30 scheduled plane flight. The plane was packed. Mostly populated by service members and US Government contractors heading back overseas from leave. I saw very few "locals" on the plane. We were wheels up on time and were starting our 12 hour flight to Kuwait. Kristen and I chatted for a bit and then we dawned the headphones. I watched the "Game Plan", the movie featuring The Rock. It wasn't good, but there were a couple laughs and it was enough to burn some time. My gameplan was to stay awake for 4 or 5 hours and take the Ambien to knock me out, waking up in time to get off the plane. It worked!
We arrived at KCIA (Kuwait City International Airport) about 15 minutes early. I think we were all ready to get off the bird. We deplaned and put our feet on Kuwait soil for the first time. As we exited the jet way in to the terminal you could tell we were in an Arab country. All of the women were completely covered except for the eyes and many of the men were adorned with their traditional dress. We headed for immigration and customs. It was surprisingly easy. Our visas cost 2 Kuwaiti Dollars, the equivalent of $12.00 US. Nice exchange rate, huh. We picked up our gear which consisted of personal baggage as well as camera gear. In total 14 pieces of luggage! We were at the final baggage check and I got yanked. A Kuwaiti Police Officer pulled my backpack off of the X Ray line and wanted to search it. He started emptying it out and asking about my pills, coins, and other personal items. He remarked as he pulled out three DVD's "John Wayne". I said, "Yep. He's one of my favorites.", he agreed and said I was good to go. We proceeded out of the secure area where we met Gunner and his team of security officers, all in plain clothes. We loaded the three trucks and headed for Camp Arifjan, our home for the next two nights.
It was about a forty minute drive. It went by quick. I rapid fired Gunner with a million questions and soaked in what little scenery we could see because it was at night. We arrived at a heavily secured Camp Arifjan about forty minutes later, downloaded the gear, and checked in to our rooms. Our home is the DV (Distinguished Visitors) quarters, which also serves as a temporary housing facility for troops heading in our out of the theater. The building is nothing special, but actually more than I expected. I have my own room, about 8x10 with a small dresser, nightstand with lamp, and bed.
Everyone had 30 min. to get settled and then we were meeting in the lobby to get some chow. The DFAC (Dining Facility) was closed so we went to the fast food area. There were 4 trailers and we had choices. Taco Bell, Burger King, Pizza Hut, and Nathans. I chose Nathans and had two hot dogs and a soda! Certainly not what I expected my first meal to be in Kuwait, but it was great. We ate quickly and headed back to our quarters to get some sleep.
Call time for tomorrow is 0615. The plan is to go check the pallets of swag we sent over to make sure all arrived safe and sound and grab some giveaways for the day and start our visits. On the agenda is a meet and greet at the Garrison Commanders Office, a visit to the MWR (Morale Welfare and Recreation) Center in Zone 6 of the Base, and a trip to Camp Liberty, on the shore of the Persian Gulf. All of that while trying to manage jet lag! I can't wait.
Out Here.
Joe Mercurio
Day 1
Hey Costa Crazies! Joe Mercurio here. Tomorrow is Day 1 of Operation: Catch Fish (OCF). I leave tomorrow from Tampa International Airport (TIA) en route for Kuwait City International Airport (KCIA). I spent this morning putting checking my gear one last time, making sure I brought everything, and it feels like I did. My big bag is definitely gonna be over weight. I have been watching the weather online closely and it looks like we may be dealing with a wide variety of temps. I have seen forecasts for everything from 35 degrees to 80 degrees. Hence the packing of so many clothes. It's also unclear what opportunity, if any I will have to get some laundry done. Mostly I have packed combat style cargo pants, fishing shirts, and plenty of my OCF T's. I've got my Yamaha foul weather gear, and two pairs of boots. Most everything else is your standard stuff. Meds are a big deal. I have allergies and don't wanna get bogged down by a congested head so I packed plenty of that stuff. I am also gonna try Ambien to cut down on jet lag. Never used it before, so we'll see how it works.
I left the house in Sarasota around 1000 and headed to Tampa. Rally point for the rest of the crew was Macdill Air Force Base. We had a 1200 call time to meet and a 1300 mission briefing from Col. Terry Sopher, Deputy Director of the Joint Inter Agency Cooperation Group (JIACG), Central Command (CENTCOM), followed by a Cultural Orientation briefing from Major Sharief Fahmy, US Air Force. I arrived early and was met by our liaison officer Major Steve Mathews. Soon after Eric, Ray, Grieg, and Kristen arrived. We headed inside for the briefs.
Major Fahmy began as the Col. was running a little behind. His briefing was designed to educate us on the Islamic religion, Muslim beliefs, local customs, and Do's and Don'ts. The briefing was enlightening. I had some knowledge on Islam from High School and College World Religeon classes, but nothing like this. He covered the total history of Islam, how it was formed, and the major Islamic beliefs, of which Peace through submission to God is the cornerstone of the faith. The religeon takes beliefs from Judiasm and Christianity and adds teachings from Mohammed, their holiest prophet. After the religion course we turned to local customs and Do's and Don'ts. A short list, but an important one.
1. Do Drink the Tea. (Tea is an offering.)
2. Shake with the Right hand. (In the desert the left hand is used for personal hygiene cleaning. You figure it out.)
3. Accept graciously. (You can't be too thankful.)
4. Allow them in to your bubble, and respect their bubble. (The people can be very touchy feely. It is a sign of trust.)
5. Make eye contact. (Similar to USA)
6. DO be proud to be an American. (No problem there.)
These were all important lessons as the last thing we want to do is upset any local folks. We want to be good guests. I do not think we will have to much interaction with locals except at the airports, which I am sure will be a lot.
Col. Sopher entered as Major Fahmy was nearly finished and all military personell in the room quickly stood up at attention. This was kind of neat to see. Col. Sopher and I our friends. I know him as Terry. Some of you may know him as the angler who caught the 216 lb Tarpon in the PTTS a few years back. He still hold the tourney record. Here he was a Col., not the friend and angler I knew him as. Pretty cool stuff. Col. Sopher's briefing focused on our mission, a background history on Kuwait and Iraq, and history on Operation Iraqi Freedom. Most of you remember in the early 90's Iraq invaded Kuwait in an effort to gain control of the Arabian Gulf. Iraq's forces were quickly defeated by the USA during Operation Desert Storm aka the 100 hour war. Since then Kuwait has been an allie of ours. In 2003 we entered Iraq after Sadaam Hussein refused to comply with UN sanctions and continued to perpetuate acts of violence and genocide against his people. Fears he was also aiding terrorist organizations combined with the others brought about OIF. Since 2003 we have been in Iraq and currently nearly 150,000 US Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, Marines, and Coast Guardsmen are in theater. After the background on the conflict Col. Sopher went in to some safety and information. The briefing ended and we shot some B roll and headed to the hotel where I am now. I am going to eat a steak have a cocktail and hit the rack.
We depart a 1830 tomorow bound for KCIA by way of Washington Dulles. I'll check back in tomorow from Kuwait. Out Here.
Joe Mercurio
Davis Center- Where our briefings were held at Macdill AFB, Tampa, FL.
Col. Terry Sopher, far right.
Day 2: Operation Catch Fish Crew
Day 2: Arriving at airport in Kuwait
Day 2: Accommodations in Kuwait
Day 3: Flag Presentation
Day 3: Kristen and the Gunner
Day 3: Kristen and the Navy Chiefs
Day 3: Lieutenant General Lovelace, ARCENT Commander
Day 3: Mosque in Kuwait
Day 3: Patrol in the Arabian Gulf
Day 3: Team with IBU 21 and 22
Day 3: Team with Lieutenant Colonel Pendergrast
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