The adventure begins: Rosemount, MN and Ft. Lewis, WA; Part 1

The journey to Iraq began on Wednesday, March 11th; with our initial muster at the Rosemount Armory. Everyone greeted each other happily, but there was the tension of not knowing what was really about to happen to us and what to expect for the upcoming few weeks. Of course we had heard through the rumor mill of this or that happening to those who had left Minnesota one month before us, but fact and fiction often are intertwined. Chief Skaar once again stated that we were to be the true professionals that we are and to face any and all adversity with a positive outlook. This being said we began the task of finishing the last minute packing of items and essentials that we would need for the next 4 -5 weeks.

Checks on items such as dog tags, copies of orders, personnel files, shot records, ID cards, etc.; all needed to be completed in the next three days. Luckily we had been prepped and remind numerous times of the importance these things prior to our activation. We completed some of our last minute briefings, checked our duffle bags (you can always fit at least one more item in!), loaded admin totes, etc. In true “Red Bull” Band tradition, our leaders had come up with ideas and plans to ensure our success. Sometimes it’s the little details that get lost in the shuffle, but I think we had it all pretty well under control.

After a long day of work, a number of us went down to the Rosemount Legion for some much needed fellowship. The folks at the Legion Club had kind of adopted us in the past year, and their kindness and generosity will always be remembered. Having been a Legion member for a number of years, it will be part of my commitment when I return home to be an active member of Post #228 in Waseca. It is time for me to give back to those who have given to me. That is my pledge.

Those of us who lived out of the Twin Cities area were allowed to go home on Thursday to be with our families one last time before we left. On Friday, we had a family day, time to be together and do things we wanted to do prior to leaving Minnesota. We chose to spend time at the Science Museum taking in the exhibits. Then back to the motel for a little swimming, relaxing, etc.

Saturday morning came all too early. We had a 6am formation, followed by coffee, juice, rolls and fellowship. Made small talk with friends and hung out with Karen, Jake and Kirsten. Then all too soon it was time to load the bus. Said my goodbyes to friends and family. One final roll call and out the door. Kind of an eerie feeling. The Patriot Guard was standing watch over us as we boarded the buses. Very quiet at this time, the only sound was our boots as we made our way to our buses. Sat down and looked out at all the people there to wish us well on our journey. A very humbling experience indeed. I didn’t know how tough it was going to be on Karen and the kids until I called to let them know I was in Seattle. That was the real eye opener for me. I guess none of us thought it would be as stressful as it was, maybe we were denying it deep down inside. We’ll all be stronger through enduring this entire process.

Not all of the Red Bull Band is making this journey to Iraq. We have what we call the “Home Team”, who will be responsible for musical support and performances back in Minnesota while we are away. I know they would like to be here with us, but circumstances dictate otherwise. A big thanks to Mary Emmen, Mel Snyder, Jen and Preston Duncan, Russ King and Katherine Gorr. You guys rock! Also, a huge thanks to Mrs. 1st SGT, Sue Clatt, our FRG (Family Readiness Group) Coordinator. She’s the link to keeping our families informed and gathering them together for fellowship and community. Thanks again guys!