The local muezzin woke me at about 0515. It’s about 0620 now. We spent the night in one of Saddam’s palaces (redecorated US Army style, with the finest of bunk beds). No potable water in the sinks, but breakfast awaits, and then the helo ride to one or more undisclosed locations to see the troops. We’re accompanied at all times by a detail of force protection troops led by a very sharp lieutenant colonel. I feel mighty safe. Well, at least when not riding helos. Like bumblebees, they seem to break the laws of physics every time they fly. I kinda like stuff with wings. Later.
