I’m sitting in a gymnasium at Andersen air force base right now, working on making my way home. It’s about 2:45 in the afternoon on Monday on the island of Guam, which is 17 hours ahead of Seattle time. I am (not really) looking forward to the two 6-8 hour flights to get home, with about a 2 hour layover in Hawaii. So after time changes, crossing the International Date Line, two flights, and about 20 hours of traveling, I should arrive home late on Monday night (Seattle time).
One thing that I had to mention is the complete difference in airport security and general flying procedures that the military uses. I am flying on the airline called Air Mobility Command. They don’t fly regular routes, and you won’t find flight status anywhere except at the terminal for that flight. Before you are allowed to board the flight, you have to assist as a baggage handler in loading the plane. And you and your carry-on baggage will be weighed so that they can get accurate fuel estimates for the flight. Can you imagine the outrage that some commercial airlines would face if they attempted to weigh every passenger before allowing them to board? Also, there are no xrays, metal detectors, or pat downs. Just a short briefing that is read to you by one of the fellow passengers. I found the list of prohibited items so funny that I took a picture of the briefing sheet to share with you.
For your safety, the following items are prohibited on the aircraft.
- Shotguns having a barrel length of less than 18 inches.
- Rifles having a barrel length of less than 16 inches.
- Switchblade knives.
- Automatic weapons.
- Brass knuckles.
- Incendiary devices, such as flares.
- Tear Gas or Mace.
- Matches.
- Gun Powser, Cartridges, or Primers
Also, any person who is under the OBVIOUS influence of intoxicating beverages or narcotics will not be permitted to board the aircraft.
I’m pretty sure you won’t be able to convince TSA that it’s okay for you to have a shotgun because the barrel is longer than 18 inches.
I’m looking forward to being home soon and hope to get back in touch with all of you.
~Jon