AVIANO AIR BASE, Italy --
After four years in the U.S. Air Force, I was really hoping a temporary duty assignment or deployment was in my near future. I was told a chance to leave home station was a great chance to learn and grow as an Airman. This year, I had the opportunity to "go TDY" a few months ago, and "growth" is really the only way to sum up the different experiences I had. Here are six things I learned that other TDY and deployment veterans might tell you to look out when the time comes.
1. Downtime
Okay, so downtime is unpredictable. The "weekend" might be on a Wednesday, while a Saturday could be the busiest day of the week. Either way, getting a good nap, studying for a class or just relaxing with a book is necessary for any Airman to stay mentally alert and prepared for whatever changes may come.
2. Bunk bed brethren
They say the Air Force can be anywhere on the globe faster than anyone else, but they don't say that we can also make it look like we've been living there for years in a matter of days. Going from pristine sheets and organized lockers to a scene out of the latest zombie apocalypse movie takes no time at all. At least it is comfy, right? For the light sleepers, I suggest headphones. No, no, not earbuds; I mean the ear protection you wear on the flight line. Just trust me.
3. Dining facility follies
Napoleon Bonaparte once said, "An army marches on its stomach." But how that happens can be a total mystery. Maybe they are Meals-Ready-to-Eat, or maybe you eat at a DFAC. Either way, prepare to be a flexible foodie because you might not know what to expect until it is set on a plate in front of you.
4. PT, good for you, good for me
Everyone says it, "During this TDY (or deployment), I am going to buckle down, get fit and surprise everyone back home." Yeah, well it isn't that easy. Pull-ups on a banister, flak-vest weighted squats and pushups in the office will replace the state-of-the-art fitness centers of which we are accustomed. If you have the dedication, though, there are plenty of people who will find a way to work out alongside you, so keep that heart rate up.
5. Mirror, mirror on the wall... or anywhere
First, a shout out to our female Airmen because I cannot imagine having to deal with hair, make-up and every other "morning routine" activity when all you have are two sinks for more than 20 people. Regardless of gender, getting ready can be a challenge, but you have to maintain a professional image. Shaving with a hose, doing your hair in the hallway or brushing your teeth with bottled water are all possible ways to get a "fresh" look.
6. Aiding our allies, always
Whether we live in bunks, eat elbow-to-elbow or get ready in cramped quarters, we overcome because every TDY increases capabilities for us, our allies, the sister services or anyone else involved. Regardless of what you might face, remember that our ability to be wherever, whenever, ensures the continued success of the Air Force, our Airmen and those we protect every single day.
