On Nov. 7, I was greeted by a very dedicated group of volunteers at the airport in Bangor. These volunteers welcomed us with hugs, handshakes and warm smiles. There were men, women and children. They informed us that even though we were on our way to a very dangerous place, they wanted us to have an appropriate send off. They promised that they would be waiting when we came home.

This group made a less than enjoyable day (try traveling for 36 straight hours) a little more bearable. Thank you to all of the volunteers, especially the 8-year-old Boy Scout who made me realize not all of our children are lost in video games.

Sais Singh

Al-Asad Air Base

Iraq