OPNS DESERT SHIELD STORM DIARY 807TH MASH

File: 970815_sep96_decls54_0017.txt
Page: 0017
Total Pages: 44

Subject = OPNS DESERT SHIELD STORM DIARY 807TH MASH

Parent Organization = ARCENT

Unit = VII CORPS

Folder Title = SUBORDINATE COMMAND HISTORICAL REPORTS-2D COSCOM-332D MED-341ST MED-912TH MED

Document Number = 3

Box ID = BX000308

our first task is to set up camp. For many of those not
previously assigned to a MASH or field unit, this is their initial
association with big tents (even though the Army clearly states
these are "mediums"), and it seems to be a good thing that most
everyone has retained his or her sense of humor. Big spikes,
sledgehammers, long poles, ridgepoles, ropes and knots; all of
these soon become a part of us, until setting up tents is
something which requires no special thought. once surrounded by
canvas walls, we knew that we now had our new homes in place.

The next step is to become acclimatized to 'Ehe Saudi
weather, and this proves to be no easy task, with temperatures
that reach the mid-eighties by day, and then fall to mid-forties
by night. Cold rains, followed by hot winds, followed by cold
winds again were not uncommon. Dust storms blow with an unmatched
ferocity, literally sand-blasting vehicles, isohuts, and the
unfortunate staff members who venture into its teeth. The best
course of action seems to be to button up the tent and sit tight
and just wait for the storm to blow over. With berms (another new
word: it means a pile of dirt) around the edges of our tent and
the liners in place, we are moderately comfortable, all things
considered. Kerosene heaters bought on the local economy raise
the temperature in the tents at night, but sleeping bags and
blankets are still important items as the sun goes down. The