1. Afghanistan Deployment
15 Aug 09 – xx Mar 10

2. Manas AB – Kyrgyzstan (near town Bishkek) 23 – 26 Sep 2009

3. Hence the name “Ganci’s Liberandos”
Manas AB (home of 376th Air Expeditionary Wing), as it is officially known, was initially referred to as Ganci Air Base, in honor of Peter Ganci, the New York City Fire Department chief who died in the September 11 World Trade Center attack.
The 376th Air Expeditionary Wing's roots date from the activation of the 376th Bombardment Group (Heavy) during World War II. The 376th took the name "Liberandos" from the B-24 Liberator bombers it flew during this conflict.
Hence the name “Ganci’s Liberandos”

4. Transient lodging (aka – big tent with concrete floor)
Inside the “big tent – 25 rows of bunk beds with 6 bunk beds per row (that’s a lot of folks – luckily we only had ~ 60 during my stay)
My home!

5. Semi-private restrooms – I’ll spare you the urinal picture
Guy’s restroom / shower / laundry facility -- it even has separate shower stalls!!
Semi-private restrooms – I’ll spare you the urinal picture

6. One of three morale, welfare & recreations (MWR) facilities on base
One of three morale, welfare & recreations (MWR) facilities on base. This is adjacent to my tent. Contains phones, wi-fi access, computers, gaming systems, pool table and mini theater. (my real home while at Manas)
Computer / phone room

7. Chapel
Yes, it’s a tent too!

8. Two days and counting. I head to Kabul early morning on 26 Sep (Friday evening for you). I am blessed to have a direct flight into Kabul International Airport, which is just a couple miles from Camp Eggers. I am ready to get situated and establish some reasonable pattern of living. Housing is a prayer request. I am told there is a 30 day wait list for “permanent” lodging, so I could be in a tent for a while. I would like to get into “permanent” lodging sooner, so I can get unpacked and settled.
Your friendship and prayers are coveted.
Thank you all and God bless.
Chris