November 1, 2008 he'll deploy. The thought makes me sick to my stomach! He'll be deployed for 179 days (that's six months if you're trying to do the math) to International Zone in Baghdad (more info: http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/world/iraq/baghdad-green-zone.htm).
We found out a few weeks ago and were first told that he would leave July 27, 2008. With my due date of baby #3 just 2 1/2 weeks after that date Brock asked if it could be pushed back a little to at least be with me for the birth. Luckily, JAX was VERY accommodating and gave him a new date of November 1, 2008 (Brock's Birthday). Personally, I can't even talk about it I cry and feel like I need to puke. But, everyday it gets a little easier to stomach and the overwhelming feelings of pride and gratitude replace the sadness and pukey-ness I feel. Brock assures me he is going to be at the safest place he could be over there and will be doing some exciting law things with detainees that are terrorists or possible terrorists. It's perfect he's being deployed on his Birthday because this is what he's dreamed of. Why he joined the USAF. To feel like he's contributed in some small way to the war efforts. I am extremely proud of him and grateful for the example he sets to me and our children of hard work and determination. Just today his SJA read some letters that were written by fellow active duty and retired military persons about him sent to not only the SJA but THE General of Luke AFB talking about what great service Brock is providing. One (a retired Marine) said something to the effect of 'the world is a safer place with Captain Ohlson in the Air Force'. If that doesn't make a wife proud I don't know what does.
