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The team is in a normal preparation and training mode. We really started the FTX on August 27 during the August monthly meeting. The cache was loaded on to our three trucked and everything was readied for our departure on Sat August 29. Thanks Robert Kelly, Leslie Fox-Leyva, Todd and Terry Tarner along with everyone that drove to the Valley for loading up the equipment. Susan, Don and Jeni had muffins, donuts, rolls and coffee for everyone when we arrived Saturday morning. After a quick briefing from Paul and me on the morning plans and convoy rules Dave Potashnick handed out radios. Gayle and Paul Brooks, Mike and Sue Ann Divens, Fred May and Cat Irvine drove the trucks while the rest of use followed in our vehicles. The drive was routine until about Peters Creek when Fred lost his air or better stated an air hose came lose from his seat. Realizing air operated the breaks he pulled over with everyone following. We quickly made repairs and were off to the Mat-Su College. Without further delays, we arrived and wow what an ideal location. Thank you Paul Brooks and Kathy Griffin for gaining us use of this facility. In true AK-1 DMAT tradition, we moved to plan B when we found the parking lot full of cars. Doctor Bill Piggott NDMS Chief Medical Officer for the west coast arrived and for rest of the weekend became part of the team. Once the parking lot was cleared, Kathy’s Paramedic class arrived, what a phenomenal group, for the remainder of the day they worked side by side with the team. After a safety briefing Donnie Norvell outlined the plan for the BoO layout, assigned group leaders and everyone was off to work. For those not present you would have been proud, all the tents were up in less than three hours. We broke for lunch and I swear the Paramedic students acted as if they really liked the MREs! After lunch we proceed to move the totes into the tents and assemble the cots. Thanks Sue Nowland and Angelia Morris for coordinating the activity and Karen Lawlor for compiling a master list of tote locations. Mike and Sue Ann worked with the several students to assemble the cots that I must say was very funny at times. Gerald Snoozy, Kevin Walker, Alexis Beyer, Bill Mackreth, Pat and Romii Deschamp just got after it wherever they were needed. With that done we moved to clearing and setting up lights for the helicopter LZ. Right on time Steve Heyano guided the LifeMed helicopter in. We spent the rest of the afternoon listening to the flight crew and medics explain their mission and aircraft. Donnie started the burgers and dogs and Susan Bury laid out all the fixings. This was topped off with Jeni Warnken's chili and soup. After everyone was well feed we said goodnight to the students and guests then settled in for the night Ops. Sue Ann organized the night watch and all settled in after much giggling and laughter. I will save the nighttime stories for another time. Sue Nowland arrived early Sunday, so we woke to fresh coffee, pastries and another beautiful day. Donnie outlined the demob plan and in short order we were emptying the tents and piling the totes. The trucks were loaded just as pizza arrived for lunch. All of this was done without the help from the awesome students. After making sure the college was left as we found it we headed back to Anchorage. Angelia, Jeni and Dave were the drivers. This is another reason I am proud to be associated with such a great group of people and a strong team. Once we arrived all the equipment was off loaded and stored in the warehouse, ready for deployment. Thank you all. AK-1 DMAT is truly second to none! See you at the winter FTX. September 12, 2009
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