Local Squadron in Gulf is Ready for Anything

Half of the 2nd airlift squadron is in the Gulf. They are scheduled to return to the States early next month. However, the recent military build-up could change those plans.

There are six Pope C-130's in the Persian Gulf along with 170 members of the 2nd airlift squadron.

"They're just doing basic cargo missions where they'll be hauling personnel and equipment back and forth from air fields there in the Arabian Peninsula," Lieutenant Colonel Rich Blanchard said.

Blanchard is the chief pilot of the squadron that is in the Gulf. He says the buildup means his squadron has to be ready for anything.

"Whenever you hear about the heightened state of readiness, they basically start thinking security," he said. "They start watching what they're doing. They get briefings about ways to protect themselves."

Blanchard says he has already been contacted by some of his squads' family members.

"They're starting to express a little concern now because the news is starting to build up about the incidents over there," he said. "Basically, I tell them 'Let's not over-react at this stage. In the past Saddam Hussein has been known to rattle his saber.'"

Any possible attack is not expected until next week. By then, the Iraqi's could have the US military literally seeing stars.

The Leonid Meteor Shower next week could interfere with military satellites. The Air Force says it does not think the meteor shower will cause major problems.