Info on Iraq

[Capo168]

Glad I got my last post in...

Saw that coming down the pike weeks ago.

Maybe we can call this one....hhhhmmmmm......I know "Info on Iraq" with out the slander and libel.

Serve and volley...back at cha.

[BFDNJFF]

Saw that coming down the pike weeks ago.

Maybe we can call this one....hhhhmmmmm......I know "Info on Iraq" with out the slander and libel.


yeah me 2 its a shame a few bad apples ruined it!

[weulz1396]

Hey iraqff123,
please drop me an email at wheeler67@peoplepc.com. I have a question about one of the posts you made in the previous Iraq forum.
Thanks
Weulz

[combatffwife04]

Hi everybody - ditto to seeing it comin'. Hope it will catch on quickly!!!

Tracy

[macdaddy52]

Trying for some information. What % of in country personnel decide to extend for a second year. I will miss the old thread it had humor and spontaneity while sometime slipping over the top.

[Capo168]

bump

[Capo168]

Don't know %, but I can't imagine it is to high right now.

[iraqff123]

weulz did you get my email?

[FFErik522]

I have got my interview on the 9th of June. Hope I make it!!!

[weulz1396]

iraqff123
Thanks. Look in your inbox.
Weulz

[rescue542]

I haven't posted much lately because I felt the FFing in Iraq thread had gone downhill for some time. Instead of what the forum started out as, it become a place where guys were airing their gripes against the company and individuals working for the company. It's a shame that guys feel this is the only way to address concerns they have. To air everything in a pulic forum for everyone in the world to read, including many of the soldiers we are over here helping. For the sake of everyone let's try and be productive in this thread instead of counter-productive. Remember the integrity that we as firefighters are suppossed to possess.

For those wondering what the re-up percentage is, it's hard to say at this point. So far only one group has completed their contract. The second and third groups are going to be finishing up in the next two weeks. I know of several guys that are re-uping for another year. I'll be back after my month and a half of R&R, vacation, and LWOP.

As I have said to many guys over here and through email, the time you spend over here will only be what you make it. If you want to be miserable the entire time you're over here, you will be. If you try to make the best out of things while you are here, you will. I have enjoyed my time here and have learned a lot from brother firefighters from all over the US. It is interesting bringing together firefighters from different parts of the US and putting them together on one department. Everyone has different ways of doing things, from hose packs to radio communications. The interesting part is when you integrate it all together and form a new department 8,000 miles form home to serve those who are protecting our freedom at home.

If I can answer any questions for anyone I am still more then happy to help. Everyone stay safe and continue working hard towards the goal.

Scott Van Boerum
WSI Fire & Emergency Services
Acting Assistant Chief
Camp Speicher
Tikrit, Iraq

[bmwfire246]

I just mailed my application inn to wsi... how long does it normally take before you get a response and what do they normally look for

[weulz1396]

BMWfire the company line is that if you don't hear from them in 2 weeks after mailing in your application then give them a call. I didn't want to wait that long and called them earlier and they set up my interview then. Good luck.

[bmwfire246]

thanks man. hopefully this will go quick.....i talked to kris today and he was saying that it could be up to 3 weeks and deploy is at min 4 to 6 weeks.

[Capo168]

Rescue522,

I agree, this is NOT the place for dirty laundry...the original posts WWWAAAAYYYY back when, alot were from you, were informational!!! Guys w/ ?s and such. Lets use this to help them make their decision and get them through the process w/ as little pain as possible. I am by NO MEANS AGAINST equal input and opinions, but if you have something negative to post, keep it clean, keep if truthful, and don't make it personal. As Rescue522 says, your time there is what you make of it.

BMW,

I suggest tracking your app. online through USPS delivery confirmation...the day after you know they got it, give them a call to set up your interview...they will have time to review it from the time you call until your interview date, if there is anything else that they need, they will let you know.

To all others,

Post away....lets overtake the "Rescue Me" thread...again. Which by the way starts on June 22nd I heard. Sweet!!! I love that dark humor crap;)

[BFDNJFF]

Bump!:D

[CorreeyW]

I have just submitted my resume on 5/20 and I have a question that wasn't answered in the first 100 pages, or the last 15, of the previous thread so please bear with me.

I know WSI paes for your plane ticket from houston but, does WSI for your ticket to houston?

Aslo I might have missed this answer but I know you have to have polio, hep A & B, tetanus (last 7 years), and polio but what others do I need to speed things up? Blood Tests? I guess that is for one of the guys ready to leave in june.

Anyways, please do tell me to read the previous thread, like I already said the just could read 172 pages so I only missed 101-156

Corey

[combatffwife04]

Hi Corey - Good Luck!

WSI does pay for your ticket from home to Houston. You usually get your ticket the Friday before you leave for Houston (usually Mondays - unless that has changed)

Regarding medical - I have all of that at home - I will check back on thread to see if anyone has answered that question if not I will review our paperwork and share.

Tracy

[CorreeyW]

Thanks Tracy and anyone else that will help me out.

Corey

[Capo168]

Since THIS THREAD only has 2 pages, I don't know WHAT thread you are talking about. You will also need Typhoid vaccine, either via IM injection or oral pill form. Don't forget all the other regular childhood vaccines as well....MMR, DTP, etc...As far as the blood tests go, Chem24, HIV w/ a Dr.s letter of non infection, titers or paper proof for all vaccinations...I can e-mail you the whole list, I just don't have it in front of me right now.

As far as the airfare goes, yes they pay to fly you from your home airport to Houston then from Houston to Dubai, United Arab Emirates. (DXB) is the airport code for Dubai in case anyone is interested for R & R purposes.

Feel free to ask away, that is what we are here for.

[Capo168]

Hey Tracy...

Any chance we can SHARE the sticky ? ;)

[combatffwife04]

Capo - Sounds good to me!!!

BUMP - BUMP - BUMP!!!

Tracy

[ksfireman82]

It's nice to see that this thread is going to be working the way it should be....full of the important stuff and not the crap.

I just wanted to thank rescue542 for the info early on.

I will be heading your way in the 1st half of June, and look forward to having fun in the sand with you all.

I was wondering what the availablility of internet access is over there for personal laptops? Also, I heard a rumor from some of my army buddies that XM radio worked there, what have you heard about this?

Thanks
----------
FF-2/HazOPS/EMT

[weulz1396]

Capo168, I would like that list of vaccines as well. wheeler67@peoplepc.com Thanks

[Berks2Montco84]

That would be friggin sweet if XM/Sirius worked over there. My one friend brought about getting service, but I looked it up and it said it only worked in CONUS, not even Hawaii or Alaska. Anyone got more information?

As far as internet service for personal laptops, I don't know about that one. From what I've heard, you can bring your onw laptop, but the only computers hooked up to the internet are company/staion computers....of course, I'm not over there yet, so I could be completely wrong.

[PTFD241]

Hey, I am in the process of being contracted by Wackenhut and had some questions if you have the answers please reply.

I guess first, I leave for huston on July 11 and was wondering how long you are there before the ship you out also what kind of training and lectures do they give you?

Second, What is the PPE situation like over there? I have heard many diff stories like only a few people have turnout gear.

What does the apparatus situation look like?

what is your housing situation like?

What types of problems have you encountered while in country either personal or with Wackenhut?

And if you have anything else to add that great?

and if you dont wanna post it jus email me at PyroContract@yahoo.com

Thanks A July 11'er

[Capo168]

As soon as I off duty I will post the entire list.

As far as XM, I contacted XM. Their official response is "it is only guaranteed in the Con. U.S. and Cananananada, eh. Whether it ACTUALLY works elsewhere, well...I have a buddy in the Army at Camp Prosperity, I will see if he has any insight.

Regarding the internet service, even if company CPUs are the only ones online, if you have a wireless PCI card, and the guys are willing to chip in on a Wireless-G broadband router (bout $200) then everyone should be set.

Anyone in country w/ some insight..uh, oh. Got a job. BRB.

[BFDNJFF]

i duno if we can use internet or not but jeff its cheaper than that
just goto ebay even and type in Linksys Wireless-G Broadband Router

you can find them around 60$

chris

bfdnjff@optonline.net

[combatffwife04]

Home now - looks like Capo took care of the immunization/tests questions.

PTFD - one week is the stay in Houston normally - my hubby Gary "Zimbob" arrived on a Monday as was to depart on Friday but didn't fly out until Sunday. He left for Houston Oct 17th, 2004.

He got his turnout gear after being there 2 months.

On his base they have 2 Class A Pumpers, 2 Tankers, One Heavy Rescue and One Brush Truck - when he first arrived in Nov '04 they only had one tanker - they received the rest of their apparatus in January.

Tents are the accomodations for him still - 6-8 guys per tent with privacy partitions.

As far as problems you have to make your own decision on problems - it is not for everybody - personally we have had minimal issues with corporate - what we did encounter was easily solved with clear communication and patience and not jumping to conclusions.

Per Gary as far as training and lectures in Houston you wont have any problems.

(By the Gary is with me and dictating these answers to me)

For those who don't know - Gary is at home for a while due to knee injury (patella dislocation) - waiting to see if he needs surgery - but he will be back soon!

As far as the XM radio - I was interested in that for Gary back in October - I checked and wasn't even available in Iraq - not sure now but Gary seems to doubt that it would be allowed on base.

Talk to you later!

Tracy

[CorreeyW]

Thanks Capo168 for the info and when you can if you could shoot me and email.

[ffjhicks]

In regards to the internet in Iraq....
I am not with WSI but I am in Iraq and have access to the internet readily available. There are satelites that can be bought for about $7,000 and internet service is billed every 3 months. What we did was get a group of about 40 people to chip in and purchase the dish, and we do the same with the service fee every 3 months. The service every 3 months comes to about $130.
Now I didn't do any of the leg work for this so I don't know many details. I just know the end cost for the user. One of my units communication guys has set up the network and he takes care of all the technical stuff. The connection is pretty good. I would say that download speeds are about the same as a cable modem.
Hope this helps.

[CorreeyW]

What kind of satellite? Like direct tv or something?

Corey

[trooperthorn]

When it comes to R&R are you able to go pretty much any where or are you limited as to what flights and transports you can get? My interest is to try and get to Ireland for one of them. Is it possible?

[Capo168]

Hey Troop,

Ireland is in bro. Go to www.ba.com or any other airline that flies out of Dubai (DXB) and pick your flight. Dubai is a huge tourist destination for the Middle East. It has a huge International airport and dozens of airlines in and out. The only prob. you will have w/ flyinf british airways is that ALL of their flight go through Heathrow in London. Won't be that big of a deal if you don't care about flying non-stop, but the flight will stop in London at some point. I also know that United, Continental, American, Air France (puke) and KLM fly into Dubai and back to Europe. BA.com will proably be the cheapest, but it seems like United and Continental had the fastest flights.

[EagleModente]

I haven't read the Iraq thread for a month and spent almost four hours tonight "catching up" on everything. Granted, some things haven't changed. And then, it came to a screching halt. What happened to the First Amendment and the Right to Free Speech??

I understand Firehouse's right to monitor threads. But, I am shocked, no, stunned, that the WEBTEAM opted to terminate the thread because of alleged negative comments made towards WSI employees. It makes me wonder if somebody from WSI has a connection at Firehouse.com especially since one of the last posts implied an audit was currently underway.

Fishy....

[ksfireman82]

1st off...this is a private company's website...the 1st amendment doesnt apply here. If you read the terms/conditions of posting, they state they have the right to edit or delete any posts at their descretion, which also includes ending a thread.


Now that I'm through with that...

Do I need any power adaptors over there or will my american power plugs work just fine on base?

-------------
FF/emt

[Berks2Montco84]

That's a big NEGATORY on American plugs over there, you will definitely needs adaptors, unless you want to fry everything, that is. As for what kind, I couldn't have the slightest idea. Anyone?

[ksfireman82]

Originally posted by Berks2Montco84
That's a big NEGATORY on American plugs over there, you will definitely needs adaptors, unless you want to fry everything, that is. As for what kind, I couldn't have the slightest idea. Anyone?

Berks2Montco84, please don't take this the wrong way...but you have responded to all my questions with answers that always include that you aren't over there and don't know for sure. I don't mean to be rude, but answers from people who ARE over there would be a LOT more helpful then your guesses or 2nd hand info.

Again, I'm not trying to be mean or rude, but in the case of technical things like internet access and electrical plugs...I would say that someone in country would have a better idea of what's up then you.

Thanks for your posts though.

--------

[Berks2Montco84]

Hey, I'm just trying to help and tell you what I have heard. I know some people that have been over there with the military, and they all say it's not the same as American electricity. However, I admit I don't know the exact details, that's why I leave it open for others to add input. Nobody else was replying, so at least now you know you need an adapter instead of not taking one and frying your electronics (which I know I wouldn't want to do either, even though my laptop is P***ing me off lately). As far as my first post, I was more interesting in hearing about XM than answering your question, but I figured I'd try to be nice nontheless....

However, if my replies annoy you, I'll stop.

[SmokeEater1]

Greetings all. Sorry its been a while but trying to get grounded here at my base, not to mention the transit time. So can someone fill me in on what provoked the web-team to terminate the FF in Iraq Thread? I hope everyone is just peachy that use this forum and that are out here in the desert.

[FIRESKEITH]

90% of plugs are 220. You can get a adapter for 110 to 220 in Iraq cheap. I paid $2.00 for mine. The 220 surge protector was $10.99. If you buy this in U.S. you are only hurting your back. Pack Lite.

[FOULBOWEL]

What type of laptops are people buying and taking over. Iam flying out on the 11th of July to Houston and Iam trying to get all my gear together.

[weulz1396]

Just wondering if anyone over there has gotten a tattoo to remember their time in Iraq? Post a picture if you can.

[CorreeyW]

About laptops...Can you buy them overthere or do you have to buy them here and take that with you? I though I read somewhere that the PX/BX has a whole bunch of stuff and one thing were laptops?

Waiting for the mail so I can get over there
Corey

[rscamaro73]

How many peeps we got headed out for July 11th ?

Someone had set up a yahoo groups for it : http://groups.yahoo.com/group/WSI_July_11ers/

Just go there and sign up and all.

Its been almost a month since I sent in my application. I'm waiting til the end of the week to call (I sent Monique an email Monday asking about my paperwork).

Sad to see the old post shut down....but it was getting wild, wasn't it ?

Rock on peeps....

[combatffwife04]

BUMP!!!:D

Tracy

[Capo168]

It seems as though the information that the "ol' guy" was provided was 100% correct...but only applicable to himself and any of you other guys who have IFSAC or ProBoard certs....

The rest of us poor unfortunate souls will be delayed in getting in country by at least a week, as they will be sending us to "refresher" training so that we can challenge the exam and get our DoD reciprosity BEFORE going over. The process as it WAS allowed you to get in country and THEN take the course in order to challenge...thereby you would be PAID while taking this refresher training. As it is NOW, we will NOT BE PAID for this required training and will again, not start our official one year until wheels up to Dubai.

So, where does that leave us ? Depends on your level of training. If you have IFSAC, ProBoard or are currently DoD certified, then apparently you are going over as originally scheduled. If not, then it looks like we are STILL in a holding pattern over the airstrip my friends.

t1j1c1, any idea how expeditious the process for "transferring" over the certs through that process you told me about is ? Any chance I could get it done in a week-and-a-half ? :)

[Capo168]

BUMP - BUMP - STICKY - STICKY - BUMP - BUMP

[weulz1396]

[i]Originally posted by Capo168

The rest of us poor unfortunate souls will be delayed in getting in country by at least a week, as they will be sending us to "refresher" training so that we can challenge the exam and get our DoD reciprosity BEFORE going over.

The process as it WAS allowed you to get in country and THEN take the course in order to challenge...thereby you would be PAID while taking this refresher training. As it is NOW, we will NOT BE PAID for this required training and will again, not start our official one year until wheels up to Dubai.


t1j1c1, any idea how expeditious the process for "transferring" over the certs through that process you told me about is ? Any chance I could get it done in a week-and-a-half ? :) [/B]

Capo I have been in contact with Pro Board and ISFAC about this. Their first replies to me were that they are not affiliated with the organization that issued my certification (The Michigan Fire Fighters Training Council) and therefore my certs do not qualify to their standards (even though the MFFTC assures me that my certs are above and beyond what Pro Board and ISFAC require). I have since emailed them back and asked about refresher courses or challenging their tests but have not heard back yet. I will post whatever they tell me. I wonder how long we may have to wait to be hired because of this.
Monique from WSI told me that my interview date is still 6/2/05 and that any other questions I had I could ask then. Till then I'm in the dark.

[mattox127]

One of reasons I'm going (July 11th) is this forum. A number of you have taken the time and shown great patience in answering our questions. I appreciate the information and the humor. If I want to hear people complaining about the fire service, I simply have to walk out to the apparatus floor and join a discussion. Where did I put my psyc meds?

[bmwfire246]

Capo thanks for the advice dude. I called today and they set up my interview for tommorow. They said b/c i have DoD IFSAC certs i wouldn't have to wait long. What type of questions should i expect from the interview? thanks again dude i owe you a beer.

[bullwinkle35]

well lets see if we can keep it semi-light around here. i did enjoy it before it reminded me of being a short-timer in the marine corps where as a fact of life everything about you and where you came from was open to the harshest ridicule imaginable. it was all in fun and it passed the time. anywho that was then i need to thank tracy again for "the list" and to those on the july 18 wagon -prepare to mount-

[mattox127]

BMW, I had my interview with Col. Tom Keller on 16th. It is very straight forward. He will ask about your current employment, if you are aware of what is happening in Iraq. He asked about my family and the support I have at home. Will you be able to handle being away? He will also brief you about your departure date, pay schedule, benefits, your week in houston and how and where you will arrive overseas. Based on your interview your recommendation will get kicked up to Astrid and you should receive your hire packet fed-exed four days later.

[rscamaro73]

Good deal Mattox....thanks for the good scoop.

And Bullwinkle....been there done that, got a few green (and brown) tshirts....lol. I know EXACTLY what you mean.....

Good memories though.....good memories.....

[ladyauxillary]

Hello All

Yes you can buy laptops at the px. My husband bought one. It has worked really well. As I've found out you can buy just about anything there. LOL So remember pack light LOL as you've been told.
Digital cameras can also be bought. All of you going over be safe and take care !!!!!!!

R

[rescue542]

For anyone looking to get their state certifications converted to IFSAC, Proboard, or DOD, let me offer some helpful information.

First is to go to www.IFSAC.org www.proboard.org or www.dodffcert.com by looking on these sites you can find out if your state is an affiliated state.

If it is it may be as simple as sending your certification into the respective agency with a form and fee to have it converted.

If your state is not, you may be able to send in a copy of your certification along with the course curriculum asking for reciprocity based on the course you took.

Another way is to find a challenge course where you can challenge the test for the respective certification. You can look online for locations at different fire academies to take challenge tests for IFSAC or Proboard certification. I am doing mine through Bucks County when I am home at the end of my contract during June.

The final way is to find and take a course at an accredited academy.

If anyone has any questions just email and I'll be happy to help.

Scott Van Boerum
WSI Fire & Emergency Services
Acting Ast Chief
Camp Speicher
Tikrit, Iraq

[bmwfire246]

Got my interview today at 1 edt. Will post and advise on outcome

cory

[mccollum78]

Does anyone have an address and/or phone number to contact someone with the dodffcert office. I had a long time ago and can't find it. I am looking to come to Iraq with you guys. I already have DOD FF1, FF2, Airport FF, Driver/Operator-ARFF & Driver/Operator-Pumper. I have Hazmat Tech 1 & 2 through the Mississippi Fire Academy. I want to try and get them converted to DOD if possible. Any info would be appreciated.e-mail me at: buildinginspector@panola.com

[rscamaro73]

http://www.dodffcert.com/ is a good link as posted. I used it to get my cert dates and #'s off of. I couldn't print off my certs from there, but I did get the list of them (I still have my original certs).

Anyhows....if they're converting stuff over, I might as well contact them too. Who knows what I can get (if anything) out of it....

[weulz1396]

Originally posted by mccollum78
Does anyone have an address and/or phone number to contact someone with the dodffcert office. I had a long time ago and can't find it. I am looking to come to Iraq with you guys. I already have DOD FF1, FF2, Airport FF, Driver/Operator-ARFF & Driver/Operator-Pumper. I have Hazmat Tech 1 & 2 through the Mississippi Fire Academy. I want to try and get them converted to DOD if possible. Any info would be appreciated.e-mail me at: buildinginspector@panola.com

Try this. http://www.dodffcert.com/impliedcerts.htm

[Capo168]

Call (850) 283-1113, this is the DoD cet office on Tyndal AFB in FL. They maybe able to convert to DoD if you ALREADY have ProBoard or IFSAC certs.

Rescue542, you are from Jersey right ? How are you getting you certs to transfer over to IFSAC/ProBoard ? Are you taking a test ? Presenting cirriculi ? Please tell, I also am from Jersey...this would save me having to take the class and challenging the exam.

[mccollum78]

I found a site and e-mailed them. They said that they do not convert certs. Unless you are hired by the military or a dod contractor. I am assuming that wackenhut is a contractor for dod. If so we should have no trouble or might have to take a test or something. I am not real sure as of yet. I'm still working in it and will let everyone know if I find out anything.

[bullwinkle35]

bump bump bump

[fireman1513]

A few questions

IFSAC Certs. i am from NC and all my NC certs have IFSAC numbers and seals on them already. Do i also need to send away for the IFSAC certs? Or do the IFSAC numbers on my NC certs sufice.

Laptops. No one in country answered the laptop question. What kind of laptops are people using. i know the Army uses ToughBooks by Panasonic, but thats about 3-4 G's. Will a "normal" laptop survive the sandbox?

Well i think thats it for now. Talk to you all later.

dom
June 27th

[12TruckIrons]

Just to cover a thing or 2. First you can get laptops here, on my base they seel 3 of em in the PX Toshiba and 2 off brands. The good thing is that thet are all in the 950-1000 dollar range so fairly cheap, all you will use em for here anyway is a dvd/cd player, gamming platform, and to store pics, unless you go out and get a sattalite internet connection which I dont believe you can do on all bases. As for as an adapter yes you need one or 2 plus a power strip, save your back and buy one when you get to victory their px has everything you need. But keep in mind if you blackhawk out to your base you can only carry 25 lbs of gear, and some convoys will limit you to one bag. Packing light is the key here. But you are the one whos gonna be carrying it so if you want to hump the kitchen sink through the desert be my guest.

[Berks2Montco84]

25 pounds?! Isn't our chemical gear alone more than 25 pounds?

[12TruckIrons]

and that my friend is the quandry that most guys who have to blackhawk out to a site have to deal with. what doesnt fly can get mailed or go by convoy but there is no guarentee on when, or if, it will arrive.

[FIRESKEITH]

Laptops are sold in country, many FFers buy Dells with DOD discount have them shipped from HOuse to them here, or straight here to base.
Buy in Iraq, surge protectors, adaptors and converters. You can buy anything and everything here.
I recommend 4 pants, 6 shirts 8 underwear, 8 pair socks, a cap (boonie), your boots, work out shorts, tennis shoes, belt, camera, thumb drive, hygiene for 2 weeks no more. One towel small sized.

YOur NBC bag is heavy about 60Lbs. Laptops with all the hardware are average 12lbs. THen you have a carry on about 25 Lbs. And your Ruck is about 50Lbs. These are all small, small numbers. They are usually Bigger.

[FIRESKEITH]

Here is the site for shipping boxes to yourself for Priority mail. Its all free. Shipping priority is faster and saves BIG money. Ship some to yourself in States for later packages. Some Boxes have one price shipping with unlimited wieght. IF you use your own box and send priority it could cost much more. It takes about 1 to 2 weeks to get boxes to you.

http://shop.usps.com/cgi-bin/vsbv/postal_store_non_ssl/display_products/productCategory.jsp?prodCat=/Shipping+Supplies/Priority+Mail

[rscamaro73]

Thanks for that info Keith :)

Well, my sad news is that my buddy that SHOWED ME this job isn't going to go anymore....so I guess I can't drag my feet waiting. I'll call tomorrow to set up the fone interview.

[bmwfire246]

I just got the phone interview today and i'm slated to leave June 27. When i fly out what is reccomended that i pack. My other question is about our bunker gear. I remember in the "other" post people said they were having trouble getting it...is this still the case? Also the guy who did the interview stated that a few things had changed with the renewall of the contract, do yall have any idea what changed?

cory

[Capo168]

Keith,
That box is great. Thanks for the info. Got 25 on the way now. This kind of information is the kind of thing that we all need to know, thumbs WAY UP on the share!!!

[Capo168]

Must...bbbb...bbubuu...BUMP... BUMP

Sorry,

Can't let us fall below the Rescue Me thread.

Attached is a pic of a patch that the June 6 crew had made up. This patch is based on a current logo being used on a WSI base in Iraq. We had it put on a khaki background and then put it on a patch, the other guys have it on a t-shirt.

I know some of the ladies and men on the Friends & Family thread wanted to get ahold of some, so if you are interested, e-mail me: jlk0530@hotmail.com ...make sure to put "WSI Iraq Patch" in the subject line...otherwise I will blow right by it in my Junk Mail. Cost will be $3.00ea. + s/h via USPS to your location. I am not looking to make a killing on these, we are all family here as far as I am concerned, just want to break even and get a little bit for my leg work on the project.

[firemedic270]

haha, nice box...dirty

[kiwiffemt]

[

"Attached is a pic of a patch that the June 6 crew had made up. This patch is based on a current logo being used on a WSI base in Iraq. We had it put on a khaki background and then put it on a patch, the other guys have it on a t-shirt."

So where is the picture ??

[FIRESKEITH]

Read my post about laptops for packing. Or Email me firekeith1221@yahoo.com
About contract. I didn't know it changed. GEAR I don't know I don't have gear. Just waiting to get some.

Capo i'm in on the patches. I have a trade offer to make. Email me .
Capo send me a pic of the patch too.

[BFDNJFF]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v650/NJFF/Patch.jpg

[Capo168]

Thanks for getting my back Chris. If you missed the patch, it is in the above post. See my post on page 5 for info...jlk0530@hotmail.com.

[garypoe4454]

I contacted Tendal AFB FL to ask about getting my IFSAC and PROBOARD certifications converted to DOD certifications when I was in Tallil AFB Southern Iraq back in May 2004.
The reply was simple.
“You must be in/on a DOD Contract to have your Certifications submitted to the USAF for consideration”
Good luck to all persons who were hired with “NFPA Certification” as stated in the hiring statement written by WSI.
This issue was a hot one for all of us in the first year and I see it still is.

[BFDNJFF]

thank god i have my pro board certs, cant you just challenge the test, honestly it isnt that hard of a test.

[SmokeEater1]

Grettings Gang, from Fallujah. FiresKeith nice to see you back in the sceen. Shoot me an email and give me the lowdown on your situation. Smoke-Eater@firehousemail.com or SmokeEater1@gmail.com

Also the guy who did the interview stated that a few things had changed with the renewall of the contract, do yall have any idea what changed?

Can anyone shed any light on this, as to what has changed as well as the process for us that want to stay here for a few years on the re-up of contracts. I have herd mixed reviews from several people and its all been vague.

Thanks to all yall for the info about the shipping boxes (Keith u da man "GODFATHER"):D. As far as me all is well here in sunny hot Fallujah. My only complaint is I wish Noah would have killed those 2damn flies when they got on the ark :mad: . Pesky bastards are everywhere. Well until next time yall stay safe and keep up the good work.

[SmokeEater1]

Sorry for addressing FiresKeith in my last post. I thought he was the original "FIREKEITH"aka THE GODFATHER. My bad.

[Perry23]

Hope all of you there are safe, I was due to leave April 18, had a delay in completing physical. As of this week I;m cleared to go, am trying to get my certs changed over to ifsac to save time in Houston.
Astrid told me the other day plan on July 18. I'mhoping she is right.
I've read all the threads on the Iraq forums, I'm coming with no impression it will be a walk in the park. I am as many of you are former military so i've lived in far worse living arrangements, I'm a young 48 starting to show my age but I can do the push ups and sit ups no problem. Does every base have a gym? well I'm rattling on so I'll back out for now.

[veryorange1]

Good New for some...I have been able to check and print my last 3 paycheck stubs online and all the pay is correct. There were some technical dificulties but I have the hard copys now.

Smoke-eater I believe that is the fire kieth of old with a new user name. Fire keith is that you?

Don't have gear yet but don't care realy. Making 90,000 with or without it. Looks like more that 90 if keep this rate up.

To those in the process or thinking of coming, just come with very little expectations and you won't be disappointed. I've been paid correctly and so far thats all I expect.

If you are interested you can see some pisc from the sandbox at this site... Check it out,

http://rickslife.myphotoalbum.com

not many but something.

Anybody goig to BIAP with me? Don't know when or if it will change but for now, D5 here I come.

- Oh If you bring a lap top, bring and external hard drive if you like music, I have aquired some 10,000 songs so far and had to buy one. going for 100 gigs worth. CHeck out "Datastore Pokettec harddrives", a hair larger than an iPod, no additional power source, just the laptops USB2 port. But I am more of a teck head so not a necesity, but most guys with computers trade alot of pictures, videos(porn) and music. Later

[BSFFwife]

Great picture. Its always nice to see more pictures of the base my husband is on. What a cutie your girlfriend is. I bet she is real proud of you. Take care. Tricketts wife.

[mccollum78]

can someone help with the cert question? I am about to mail my application back on tuesday. Just wondering about this pro-board, nfpa,dod thing. I have pro-board ff1, dod ff2, dod airport ff, dod driver/operator-arff & pumper, I have hazmat op and awareness, hazmat tech 1&2 thru the mississippi fire academy. Does anyone think I will have any problems getting over there. Are they getting any more strict on the certs. i hope not. Any info from anybody over there or just recently been thru the process. thanks

e-mail: buildinginspector@panola.com

[ksfireman82]

Originally posted by mccollum78
I have hazmat op and awareness, hazmat tech 1&2 thru the mississippi fire academy.


This might be the only one that you will need to retest if any. All depends on if your hazmat certs are also IFSAC, DOD, or ProBoard.

[ladyauxillary]

I enjoyed the slide show of your camp. Thats so cool that you can post pics for everyone to see. All of you stay safe .

SMOKEEATER1 you guys in Fallujah take care !!! I know 2 in that camp pretty well !!! LOL
All of you stay safe and you and your families are in my prayers !!

R

[ChiefStricklin]

Just wanted to say thank you for the kind words and thoughts of prayer. It is nice to hear nice things from the families of our men and women in country. I will try to keep all of them as safe as I can. God Bless

[ladyauxillary]

ChiefStricklin

I know you'll do everything in you power to take care of those guys.
That means a lot to me. I'm glad to know there's you and jatkins to take care of BAMA for me . I think of you guys all the time. All
of you take care . You and your families are in my prayers !!!

Stay safe !!!

R

[BSFFwife]

BUMP!

[osmermb]

Just a quick question, I sent my application back about three weeks ago and was wondering if there was somebody I could call and find out about it.

Thank You

[weulz1396]

Originally posted by osmermb
Just a quick question, I sent my application back about three weeks ago and was wondering if there was somebody I could call and find out about it.

Thank You

Just call the number that was included in your application packet. Explain to whoever answers the phone (probably Monique) who you are and why you are calling. They will be able to tell you what you need to know.

[BFDNJFF]

BUMP



Happy Memorial Day Everyone !!

[resq437]

I currently an waiting for my interview with Wakenhut. How long after that do you leave for testing? Then after testing is done,if you pass,how long before you go to Iraq?
If I do pass and make it over there,is there any suggestions on things I should bring? Do I bring cloths from home or are you only supposed to be in uniform at all times? I guess im just looking for suggestions from the people who have been there or are there now. Please help me.
Thank you!

I know there have been other Threads on this and I have searched as much as I can,but with over 170 pages it is hard to find answers to my questions. The reply I keep getting is to look at the threads and read them. I have tried as much as possible. There are so many people writing and replying to things there is way to much to search through. I thank everyone in advance for helping me.

[CorreeyW]

resq437

If you email me with your address I can give you the list that I have compiled. I am also waiting for my interview, so I might be able to answer some of your questions from what has been posted on this and the previous thread.

Corey
Correeyw@aol.com

----------------------------
"Coke with lime the coolest thing since sliced bread" thanks thumbs

[FIRESKEITH]

Email me i'll tell you what you need and what you don't need and why.
Corey i guess that list is long email me too.
firekeith1221@yahoo.com

[rscamaro73]

Good news.....just called and got thru to Monique. I swear I'm gonna put her on my Xmas list this year. She's been SO helpful. :)

Interview is in 2 weeks....I am more than ready to go....

Someone save me a spot in the chow line ;)

And on other things - does anyone have any privvy info if they're putting anyone with ARFF experience any place special ?? I already know how the Marines run things....and I prolly know a few out there....so it'd just make things easy for us all :)

How bad are the skeeters ?? Down south bad or like metro area bad ?

[filldabox10]

I just had my phone interview today and am scheduled to go to Houston on July 18th. Anyone else leaving then?

A word about the hiring process-

I think thus far it has been very smooth. I sent my resume in on May 10th and received the application on the 20th, hand delivered it to WSI in DC (I live close) on the 23rd, had interview scheduled two days later. It wasn't that bad. Read this thread and the other thread and have all your stuff together, it makes things go quickly.

[weulz1396]

Filldabox10, do you have DoD or Pro Board certs? If not are they (WSI) sending you to a "crash course" to challenge the test?

[filldabox10]

All of my certifications that I sent in were from the State of Virginia, which is a pro-board accredited state (it says so on the bottom of the certification) Just to ensure I don't need the crash course though, I went through the Virginia Department of Fire Programs and sent all of my certs to the pro-board along with $15 per certificate to have them transfered to actual pro-board certs.

Here is a link to the proboard site:

www.theproboard.org (http://www.theproboard.org)

Hope this helps.

[weulz1396]

Had to get this thread back on the first page.

[rscamaro73]

Just a question about departures.....

There are some people set to leave on July 11th....and now there's more leaving the 18th. I was under the impression that WSI was only sending us out every other week now or is it back to weekly ??

I'm curious because I was wanting to leave the 11th....but if I have to wait til the 18th then so be it.....no big deal to me, other than more time I have to spend pulling out me hairs at my current employer.....:mad: on nights at that....

[Firesout424]

Does anyone know the age range of ff's going over, and what kind of plans do people have when they get back as far as getting another job in the states. Just curios because it is such a tedious process to get a job in the states

[gascott]

I was wondering if anyone had any good company names for fire fighting in Iraq?

Many thanks

RRFD 113

[Capo168]

camaro,

As far as I know, they are still sending people out every Monday...maybe not the first Monday of the month for July, since it is the 4th. Regarding the every other week thing, I think that they are going to run the "crash course" once a month and send out the non-IFSAC certified guys on the second, maybe third in July, Monday of the month.

[Capo168]

Hey firesout,

Why don't you bring some Ensure and Depends for my buddy Capt. Clyde...if he is any indication of the age range, then wheelchairs and walkers are encouraged :) just kidding Cap. Gotta get my digs in before you leave for the sand!!!

Seriously, the range is varied, I know that my original group of guys was from 19 to 50, with the average age being 30. Most guys seemed to be under 30 though.

[Capo168]

gascott,

What exactly do you mean by company names ? Like fire company names, base names, or companies as in WSI, KBR, etc...

This is a great way to increase the page count to get us up on the page, just reply to multiple question with multiple posts :)

[weulz1396]

Capo I just had my interview. My planned ship date is July 11th. I am one of those guys in the holding pattern with you. Keller told me that the "crash course" will probably be one week long at Texas A&M. After that, one week in Houston then pay starts when wheels are up from Houston. Also he told me there may be some online work to do before Texas A&M.

[Capo168]

Bring it on...online, offline, College Station, Houston...get me the F@(K to Iraq.

I was an Aztec in college, does this mean we'll be Aggies now ?

Hey weulz...what is your e-mail ? I am jlk0530@hotmail.com

[weulz1396]

I got your email from the patch postings a couple pages back. Look in you inbox. And send me two patches.

[Capo168]

got it weulz, they are on the way

[BFDNJFF]

I was wondering if anyone had any good company names for fire fighting in Iraq?

Most guys on this thread are either working for or applying for wackenhut.so they can answer any questions.

To get info call (202)557-3680 and they will send you an app.

[BFDNJFF]

hey jeff

so whats your deal bro ? when are you leaving now ?
did you get any info on your certs?(damn jersey crap ass certs )
maybe the fort can help you with challenging the tests.

chris

[bmwfire246]

I just talked with astrid today and moved my date to July 11. Apparently they are not shipping on the week of the 4th. New hire packets will be Fedexed today to be at house in morning. see yall in houston on the 11th!

cory

[weulz1396]

Is there a web group somewhere for the 7/11'ers?

[kraziecasey02]

BUMP :)

[12TruckIrons]

Originally posted by filldabox10
All of my certifications that I sent in were from the State of Virginia, which is a pro-board accredited state (it says so on the bottom of the certification) Just to ensure I don't need the crash course though, I went through the Virginia Department of Fire Programs and sent all of my certs to the pro-board along with $15 per certificate to have them transfered to actual pro-board certs.

Here is a link to the proboard site:

www.theproboard.org (http://www.theproboard.org)

Hope this helps.

Hey, just curious, what part of Virginia are you from?

Talk with you later and good luck!
Kelly

I just realized i was signed onto firehouse under a co worker's name (Brandon) but my post name is krknfrst#11.

[mccollum78]

LSU gives a hazmat awareness & operation class once a month. The next one is July 5-8 in Baton Rouge. I don't know how far everyone would have to travel,but this is away to only stay in Houston for one week. LSU said they have to have at least 10 people in the class to have it. The cost is $300.00 for the class. You can stay on campus for $25.00 a night in a barrack style room. Plus food. I'm guessing it would cost around $500.00 for the whole week. LSU is IFSAC approved. I just thought I would throw that out there. I am considering doing this. Would like to know if anyone else is interested. Does anyone else know how they are doing the hazmat in Houston. When is it scheduled in Houston for July? Contact info for LSU is 225-761-3205. Jessie will fax you a registration form. Please give me a little feed back as soon as possible on this. I have to call Monique back on Monday and set-up my interview. E-mail: buildinginspector@panola.com

[filldabox10]

I am from Northern Virginia, Prince William Co.

[combatffwife04]

HI everyone - saw thread getting low on page - so wanted to get back up at top - BUMP:D

Tracy

[Capo168]

Thanks Trace,

Just bumped the F & F thread. :)

[ladyauxillary]

I see you guys have slipped down again LOL So I'll give a little boost also !! All you guys take care and be safe !!!!

Renae

[3HookNHose]

I've been off the threads for a little while, but now I see certifications seem to be an issue. I am nationally certified in FFII, my ship date is Sept. 12th, so I am assuming I am alright. What exactly is IFSAC? I took all my stuff through MFRI, and considering they are teaching some classes in Iraq I am guessing I am ok.
Also, I have only dealt with Monique and the guy that did the interview. Has anyone gotten anything out of talking to Astrid that Monique couldn't handle? At this point I have a ship date, all I have left is the physical. Also I am thinking about moving up ship date to an earlier date, has anyone done that? I am gettin restless! Thanks.

-Jim

[ksfireman82]

Originally posted by 3HookNHose
I've been off the threads for a little while, but now I see certifications seem to be an issue. I am nationally certified in FFII, my ship date is Sept. 12th, so I am assuming I am alright. What exactly is IFSAC? I took all my stuff through MFRI, and considering they are teaching some classes in Iraq I am guessing I am ok.
Also, I have only dealt with Monique and the guy that did the interview. Has anyone gotten anything out of talking to Astrid that Monique couldn't handle? At this point I have a ship date, all I have left is the physical. Also I am thinking about moving up ship date to an earlier date, has anyone done that? I am gettin restless! Thanks.

-Jim

Make sure that your Certs have either the IFSAC, ProBoard or DoD seal on them even though you are "nationaly certified". If your certs aren't one of those 3, you will have to re-cert in texas at your own expense.

Astrid is the go-to lady as far as this whole hiring/shipping out process. You are fine talking to the others, but she is the final say and the one who actually does all these things. She is very hard to get a hold of sometimes, but if you have a question, she's the one who will be answering it no matter who you ask.

I would definately take the time (and maybe $50 total) to get all your certs IFSAC, all you need to do is send your current certs in with whatever thier fee is and have new ones sent back that are IFSAC.

Just my 2 cents though.


By the way...see all of you on monday if you're leaving with me on the 6th!

[kraziecasey02]

I took all my stuff through MFRI, and considering they are teaching some classes in Iraq I am guessing I am ok.

My boyfriend had all his classes through MFRI, too, and he had me go up to UMD to get them all converted to IFSAC/ProBoard certs. It's $15 per cert, I believe.

[ksfireman82]

Originally posted by 3HookNHose
I've been off the threads for a little while, but now I see certifications seem to be an issue. I am nationally certified in FFII, my ship date is Sept. 12th, so I am assuming I am alright. What exactly is IFSAC? I took all my stuff through MFRI, and considering they are teaching some classes in Iraq I am guessing I am ok.
Also, I have only dealt with Monique and the guy that did the interview. Has anyone gotten anything out of talking to Astrid that Monique couldn't handle? At this point I have a ship date, all I have left is the physical. Also I am thinking about moving up ship date to an earlier date, has anyone done that? I am gettin restless! Thanks.

-Jim

Just remember...these aren't IFSAC or ProBoard certs, they are just accredited by them. All my certs are from the University of Kansas Fire & Rescue Institue (our state fire training agnecy) but they all have the IFSAC seal on them with a seal number that is traceable to the IFSAC database. When I got certified, they offered us a 2nd version that was ProBoard for $15 per cert. Any IFSAC or ProBoard cert can be sent in and converted to a DoD cert and that's what this is all really about.

It's no different then reciprocity for EMT licenses. If you have your NREMT you can get a state certificate in any state that recognizes it.

This is something that is important, but VERY easy to deal with and not have to worry about taking the refresher course at Texas A&M. The only ones who should really have to worry about taking the class is someone who: 1)is already in the hiring process and didn't know and now doens't have enough time to send in and get new copies of their certs from IFSAC or ProBoard. 2) someone who is certified by an agency that is NOT IFSAC or ProBoard recognized (there aren't many of them out there and you can check the IFSAC and ProBoard websites to be sure). and 3) People who are to lazy to bother doing the legwork of making a phone call or email and then sending in a couple $ to get new certs.

I don't mean to be rude about the last option there...but seriously, it's not hard to fix. Just do the research on your own certs and find out what you need to do and don't assume anything. In fact, assuming the other way is a pain too. I know some guys that figured since thier certs were from a state training program that they couldn't be IFSAC or ProBoard and paid to get new ones, only to find out they were already fine.

I'll keep everyone up to date with the updated process in Houston, Dubai, and Bagdad as I go.

Be Safe!

[trooperthorn]

I have all the certs that are required for many of the positions. My haz mat tech though is 2 years old. will this matter?

[mccollum78]

I noticed today that the qualifications listed on the job posting for wackenhut doesn't specify that the hazmat tech has to be ifsac, pro-board or dod. FF1 & 2 are the only certs that they state should be ifsac, por-board or dod. It is a little misleading. But if they say you have to have it I guess you have to have it. I'm still trying to either get mine swapped over or just go take another ops & awareness class that is ifsac. I don't know about yout cert being 2 years old shouldn't make a difference. That's my thoughts .

[macdaddy52]

Godfather, Y'all stay cool. I'll be enjoying the tropical sun, surf, sand down in Panama. I'll get touch when I get back. Stay safe. Watch out for those banana hogging TCN's

Mac

[3HookNHose]

Thanks for all the feedback, see you in the sandbox.

-Jim

[FIRESKEITH]

Hey Mac have a safe trip and drink all you can for me. Get in touch when you return.

[RspctFrmCalgary]

Hey Keith, I see you finally figured out how to post pics on here :D :D Was going to send you a PM or email but you didn't set it up under your new name .....

[FIRESKEITH]

YEah it took a while to figure out but i did it.

[macdaddy52]

Leaving for the airport in about 45 min. We will, I will, and I will. Stay safe my friend.
Mac

[macdaddy52]

Great Pic

[captain13]

Salutes ^
Breathe,, be patient,,The proccess is lengthy and things dont always happen as fast as we would like.One week since wheels up houston and things are moving but breathe,,.. Its a great group of firefighters and officers from what I have seen and look foward to more.
What blows me away are the young men and women here puting thier a$$es on the line every day for basicly no money and little thanks,,I have nothing but respect and gatitued for the armed forces.


To All Stay Safe and Strong, Firemans Prayer

Capt13 Camp Victory

[rscamaro73]

Originally posted by weulz1396
Is there a web group somewhere for the 7/11'ers?

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/WSI_July_11ers/


My interview is next Monday....I'm antsy....:D

[weulz1396]

[i]Originally posted by rscamaro73

My interview is next Monday....I'm antsy....:D [/B]

I had my interview last Thursday. It was very laid back. Basically he just wanted to verify most of the info on my resume and then make sure that I understood what I had gotten myself into. He did ask about my family, how much I had and things like that. Not sure why, maybe he wanted to try and figure out how old I am without asking me. One piece of advice I will gove you is to think up questions and write them down. I had some but forgot most of them when he asked if I had any. Good luck.

[Capo168]

Hey brother,
I sent out those patches. Send me an e-mail, I accidentally deleted yours. The total was $7.89...postage a little more than I thought.

[weulz1396]

Capo I owe you $.98. I sent you a check last Sat. I can send you the rest or buy the first round in Texas. See you there.

[Capo168]

weulz,

Fuggedaboudit....its on me.

[Capo168]

BUMP

[bmwfire246]

Got my new hire packett today...fyi if you go to the post office for a expidited passport its $200.00 not $160.00. see ya in houston on the 11th.

[SmokeEater1]

Well I have now finally found this thread and I can say that things are back to passing info and squared away from what I have read. Is there any of the Apr. 11th guys out there? So I have herd that some of the hiring procedures have changed or been altered.. Whats the lowdown on this stuff. For all of those that are incoming I wish yall the best and be forewarned its getting pretty toasty over here:D

[Capo168]

SmokeEater,
Most of the hiring procedures are the same. The one major change is that if a person does NOT have IFSAC, ProBoard or DoD already, they will have to do the "crash course" refresher in the States BEFORE they go to Iraq. I know that they were running this course in Baghdad while guys were in country, but DoD wants them to do it over here first. So about half of the people who are currently awaiting departure will be going to College Station, TX to Texas A & M before going to Houston and then going to Houston for processing.

[RspctFrmCalgary]

Originally posted by FIRESKEITH
YEah it took a while to figure out but i did it.

Cool pic, is that right after a sandstorm?

[firemanphil1972]

is anybody else heading to houston on july 25th?

[FIRESKEITH]

Nope not after sandstorm. It was a normal afternoon on the base looking out. We see that alot. But i'm south Iraq

[firemedic270]

BUMP

[Berks2Montco84]

Okay, so I know I asked this on the previous thread and did get some good responses, but I figured I'd ask again to see if anything new has come up. Any guys/gals out in the sandbox who are attempting to wear contacts and having luck with it? I'm so used to these things and it would suck to have to go back to glasses like in high school. I'm probably going to end up taking mine over and trying them out, but still taking the glasses over too just in case it doesn't work out. Once again, anyone doing it and having luck?

[Taytor]

Look out, A good group of guys are coming over. Hopefully we leave Friday. You haven't seen my name on here before, but believe me I've been reading all this from the day it began. Since I'm in houston I finally decided to drop in a note. I'm from Dallas, and look forward to seing you guys over there. Stay safe and see ya in a few days.

[filldabox10]

So who is leaving July 18th? Anybody?

[Capo168]

Hey Taytor tot,

Good luck to you guys. Wish I were with you guys. Tell "ol' Man" river that I said "hi" and that I'm looking forward to finally getting together.

[safd80]

Hey Smokeeater,
My fiance, Russ, was an April 11th guy, I asked him if he knew you and he said yes. So, I just thought I would drop you a line and see how things were going over your way.

Kristin

[Turisops]

Hello all,

I’m one of the guys in waiting to get this thing going. I’m from Oregon, a non IFSAC/PROBOARD state. I have heard a lot of hassle going on about the certifications. I was due to leave May 6th but got put on hold for the contract negotiations, then got told that I was going..then got told that I wasn’t because of cert issues now I’m being told that first I was leaving on the 6th of June, now possibly the 13 or the 20th. So as I see it I will be testing (or is it classes like at the academy) out of FF1/FF2/FO1 and HAZMAT...I think. Anybody have any incite as to when this will most likely happen? Educated guesses?? Man I understand that anybody who is in bed with the military is liable to get jerked around so I know I cant blame WSI for it. Its all good, I just got back from Iraq after a year tour this last March and I know what its like. Keep safe all and hello to all the Taji guys...

[firemedic270]

I think Lt. Kniffen(Capo) should have some incite on this matter as he is in the same boat as you...damn Jersey and Oregon...OH-IO!:)

[firemedic270]

p.s. Taytor, have they been spoon feeding ol' Capn' Tom while you guys are in Houston or are they starting him on the Ensure diet early??...send my regards.

[weulz1396]

Originally posted by firemedic270
I think Lt. Kniffen(Capo) should have some incite on this matter as he is in the same boat as you...damn Jersey and Oregon...OH-IO!:)

You forgot Michigan

[firemedic270]

Originally posted by weulz1396


You forgot Michigan


That's a given weulz...everyone(especially us BUCKEYES0 damn Michigan) so I guess it was implied... :D

[weulz1396]

Originally posted by firemedic270



That's a given weulz...everyone(especially us BUCKEYES0 damn Michigan) so I guess it was implied... :D
Well I was going to put an Ohio State slam in my last post but decided not to. I thought "Don't do it Weulz. One of those Buckeyes might have to pull your Wolverine butt out of a fire someday."
Well you can see where trying to be nice got me. Leave it to a Buckeye to start throwing mud. By the way do the numbers 57-38-6 mean anything to you. That is Michigan's record against the Bucks. Maybe we should start a football thread in the fall. Since we will all be over in the sandbox info may be hard to come by.
Go Blue. Only 163 days till we beat Ohio State again.

[firemedic270]

Buddy, I can see this getting real ugly, real fast...I call treuce. By the way, if you end up on the same base as me my dad is recording all the OSU games and sending them to me...I'll convert you.

[Capo168]

Hey Oregon...

Sucks don't it ? Here we were, all ready to go play in the sand and they go and tell us we can't play until we learn ourselves how to play again to a different standard. Well.....the latest info I have, and hopefully it will be updated for me today is...ummm, well...uhhh...the same stinking info that you have. I was supposed to go on the 6th, then the 20th, then the 6th again, 13th, now 20th, but maybe the 13th. Seems that WSI has all their ducks lined up for this "crash course" at Texas A & M, but is waiting for DoD to give the okey dokey to do it. So...hopefully the guvmint gits to gittin' and gives the thumbs up.

If I get any more info, I will post it here ASAP.

Hey weulz and 270medic,

You're both smoking dope or something. The REAL money is with the Irish. Buckeyes and Wolverines are aight, but there ain't nothing like a Saturday afternoon in September at the home of the Fightin' Irish. ;)

[weulz1396]

Oh man I think I'm gonna be sick. First of all I have been waiting for a week to get my new hire packet. Secondly I log on to this board to get some info and I have to read about the Buckeyes and now the Irish. I guess P.T. Barnum was right. There really is one born every minute.
Just a little fun guys. Keep safe.
By the way I am scheduled for my "crash course" on 7/11. Maybe we will all be there together.

[Capo168]

Green and Gold are the only colors that you'll see while being sick. No offense Wheeler, but I hope to be in Baghdad for a week by the time you get to A & M. I am scheduled for the 20th of June. By the way, did you get the patches yet ? If not today, probably tomorrow.

[weulz1396]

Capo I just got the patches a couple minutes ago. They look great. I will have one put on my Bunkers today. I am going to "break the news" to my department at training tonight. Still no new hire packet in the mail. I'm going to call today.

[BFDNJFF]

kinda funny ever look at Notre Dames foot ball team pics .........:) oddest looking irish i have ever seen! must be from the sunnier side of ireland ! lmao

[Capo168]

What are you Sicilian ? Haven't you ever heard of the "black Irish" ?

While we are on the subject, why is an all men's university called "Notre Dame" ? This is French for "Our Lady". Hmmmm.

[BFDNJFF]

You must be Italian...

ummmm i refuse to answer this on the grounds i may be incriminated !! so i plead the 5th !! :D

(and sicilian is not italian in my book lol)


While we are on the subject, why is an all men's university called "Notre Dame" ? This is French for "Our Lady". Hmmmm

cause thats how they play !!:)

[bmwfire246]

NOBODY QUIT THE JOBS YOU HAVE NOW!!!!! I just got off of the phone with Astrid. All ship dates are suspended. The june 27 crew will be the last one out. Apparently i got in touch with here just after she got out of the meeting. All ship dates are suspended untill August/September timeframe due to the contract negotiations with the Army for the 5 new bases. She told me that she will be sending out letters explaining everthing certified mail in the next few days. When time comes to ship out more, the firefighters that were supposed to go now will bee contacted and see if they still want to go...we are on the top of the list. Again do not quit your jobs or you will be screwed untill august or september at the earliest.

[weulz1396]

Just got off the phone with my boss. He is willing to do whatever it takes to help me out. I hope the rest of you have the same luck. As soon as anybody gets some more info on this please post it. I have been trying to get ahold of Astrid the last couple of days. She is supposed to call me today. I will post any new info. Good luck guys. Looks like it is going to be a long summer.

[Capo168]

uh oh. this don't sound good.

[bmwfire246]

your right this dont sound good.....

[firegoddess7]

The guys from here leave in Aug. I don't want to sound stupid here but this is the first we had heard of anything being held up due to negotiations? Perhaps maybe you can fill in the blanks...


All gave some and some gave all they had...
Thank you to all those who are out there everyday saving and serving. YOU ARE THE BEST!

[MoparFyrMan1]

Originally posted by Berks2Montco84
Any guys/gals out in the sandbox who are attempting to wear contacts and having luck with it?

Hey Bud,

Been here since Jan. I wear contacts and haven't had any problems. I have a decent pair of sunglasses and the only time having them in is during a sand storm. Haven't had to many of them thankfully. Bring your glasses as a back-up, I did.

Later,

G

[bmwfire246]

From what i was told most of us were being hired b/c wsi was getting ready to take on 5 more bases. Apparently the "negotiations" are taking longer than expected and they have had to put us on hold b/c they are "Full Up" and have no vacancies. She said it would be august or september befor any of us would deploy at the earliest. When i called at about 1430 wsi time i had to wait about 5 min or so and then she came to the phone and said she had just got out of the meeting and i was the first person to know. she said that she will be sending letters out certified mail in a few days. thats about all that that was said about it. she said that when time comes to ship the people that were supposed to leave in july are on the top of the list to go. hope this helps and i hope to find out more soon.

[Turisops]

Well I guess I will be just siphoning off unemployment and not doing a damn thing. I hope that us June 6,13,20ers can get in under the wire. Well maybe I will go hang out and watch the rose parade in Portland.

Turi

[Berks2Montco84]

But this means that I can't take my 8 month leave during spring break....oh the heartbreak!!! Actually.....hold on a minute....if we ship out mid-late August, that means my two leaves will be Christmas and my birthday....maybe this isn't too bad, despite the fact that I was getting antsy to leave in a month....this also means I'll have to take the fall semester off from school when I get back....I guess having free time and plenty of money isn't all that bad....

[bullwinkle35]

i just got off of the phone literally 5 min ago. all july guys on hold indefinite. the army is holding onto and restructuring the 5 extra bases. wsi now at full capacity. man o man im hoping my bosses will understand but working for a municipality who knows they did give me a LOA so maybe....
she told me to hold all future paperwork there are at least 15 guys ahead of the july 18 group. also it could be several months until we get the call too many guys going the second year..........
the bright side astrid said she did not know how many guys were doing 1 year and leaving

[weulz1396]

Well, I just applied with KBR. I don't know what will happen there. I will let you guys know if it is worth your time.

[fireman1513]

Man o man do things change around here. i guess its good i decided to go June 20th and not July 11th. To all the guys on hold, my prayers are with you. i know how it is, you can only bend your boss so much before he breaks.

Capo, how do i get one or two of those patches? workmail1513@yahoo.com

Also, what color pt gear do we need. i assume its just shorts and t-shirts right?

See you all in Houston in 10 days.

[fireman1513]

BTW Capo where in NJ are you. i was born in Atlantic City. i will be in south Jersey this weekend.

Peace

[Geff2575]

Sorry all first post but have read all before this. My interview is on monday so where does that leave me and the others who are in the middle of this process? Have they said that they will be sending more or is all else unknown?

[weulz1396]

From what I have read certified letters are going out this week. I am sure that as they are received more info will be posted. Also you will have an opportunity to ask Col. Tom Keller questions after your interview. write down what you want to know because he will throw so much info at you it will be easy to forget your questions. Post any new info you get on this site for the rest of us.

[Geff2575]

My pleasure.

[Rescue241]

First time user. Saw thread was getting low,

[Capo168]

Well folks,

Hate to be the bearer of bad news, but seeing how most folks can't get through to Astrid, I will give it to you straight.

If you were to ship in July or August, find something else to occupy your time for a few months. You will not (as of now) be going as scheduled.

If you have Pro Board or IFSAC certs, you are golden, If you don't, and you are one of the MANY NFPAers out there (like me). Find a class, challenge the exam or do what ever you need to do, because without out them you are completely UNEMPLOYABLE by WSI. They will NOT be giving the "crash course" as they had hoped in order to get everyone certified to Pro Board standards before leaving the States. They also will NOT be doing it over in Iraq any longer.

The LAST batch of new hires going over will be the 20th of June. If you were scheduled after that, you will be sent in order when they start sending more to replace firefighters there now who will not be re-upping for another contract. There are NO NEW BASES being staffed by WSI, therefore NO NEW NEEDED contrat firefighters until existing ones leave. The retention rate is about 70%, so they are leaving, just NOT in droves. For instance, in May, 23 firefighters' contracts were up, 16 are staying, you can do the math boys and girls.

Good luck to all. If anyone knows where I can challenge the Pro Board exam by next Friday, PLEASE let me know. I know some of you must have some "connections". Or, if you know of how I can transfer NFPA cirriculum certs to IFSAC, PLEASE let me know.

[Rescue241]

Capo168. What state do you live in?

[Capo168]

Jersey.

[Rescue241]

I have called the offices of "Ifsac" and "Proboard".They both said the same thing.You hvae to test out. The next test is July 30. At the Academy.

[bullwinkle35]

hey now..
capo how did you get hard numbers on who or how many are re-upping or not?

[Turisops]

Well I guess that Im screwed!!! Any Oregon ideas from anybody...What a bunch of crap...

[ldef90]

Rescue241

Are you from Jersey also? what academy is offering the test on july 30.

thanks

[Rescue241]

I am from upstate NY. I found out about the test when I called the Academy in Montour Falls.But the book they sent me is for both.Montour Falls and Camp Smith.

[Capo168]

Rescue241,

Where is this academy, what county ? Can I get on the list to test out ? E-mail me" jlk0530@hotmail.com

bullwinkle,

I talked to Astrid for about an hour this afternooon...she spent her lunch hour talking to me on the phone. The nymbers came straight from her.

Dear "screwed in Oregon",

Check out www.theproboard.org, see if there is any place (state or other training facility near you) that you can test out at.

[Rescue241]

I sent that info to you!

[Medic03431]

Capo,

Hey man. I've recently sent in my application ect. I've been following the thread for a couple of weeks and you guys have been a wealth of info. I'm kinda curious about one thing though. Thankfuly all of my certs are Pro-Board and I was wondering if you think that will give me a heads up on the hiring process. Thanks bud.

[bmwfire246]

IFSAC/Proboard or not...nobodys going anywhere for awhile from the looks of it

[Medic03431]

Thats cool with me. If I'm there by the end of the year I'll be stoked. I was asking because I'm sure there were quite a few guys that are waiting to fly out with expectations of taking the "crash course" for re-certification that is no longer being offered. I'm hoping to slip in under the radar and fill the spot of someone who cant get the right certs. Keep your chins up boys. The way I see it is we all had much different plans before Iraq ever became an option. Besides.. the summers in Maine kick !@##

[Perry23]

I believe I'm in the original July 18 group I'm from Ohio. Currently
waiting for my certs to be converted to IFSAC at the academy.
been a level II since 1990 before IFSAC in Ohio. Man its been a trip to get this far in the process. to get cleared and a departure date only to get put on hold just like back in the service days.

[Medic03431]

Perry,

Are you on hold because of the drama with the military contracts or because of your current cert status?

[Perry23]

no i was really originally scheduled to go in april but my physical took awhile they couldn't find my heart. once they located it i was ready for july 18 i'm ready to go i'm thinking of hitch hiking on over and just meandering into bagdad maybe they will put me to work
really though it gives me time to finish a few projects at the house.

[Capo168]

Hey Medic03431,

You will be employable to WSI. As far as flying under the radar, the radar isn't really operational right now. I don't know if they are currently taking new hires. They do have a running list, and anyone on that list who is IFASC/Proboard certified can and will eventually go. There is an order of priority though. Anyone delayed will go forst before new hires or those who were to go during that time period. i.e. the guys scheduled for July will go first when they start re-shipping and then the guys from August etc, etc...

Put your paperwork in though. Start the process, get your physical and all that, that way you will be ready to go when thay start the re-hire.

To all,

If you ARE NOT IFSAC or ProBorad and you are wanting to go, waiting to go or just want to get ProBoard certified, send me an e-mail. I and another brother from Michigan are checking into getting a "crash challenge course" together. It maybe in Pennsylvania, as it seems that a particular college there has a history of having people "test out" and challenge the ProBoard exams. I am at : jlk0530@hotmail.com

[mccollum78]

Does anyone know of anywhere doown south to take a hazmat class? I'm from mississippi. I have an interview next thursday with wsi. I know that there is a hold on hiring. The hazmat is the only thing that is going to screw me. I have tech 1&2, but these classes are not ifsac or pro-board. I'm willing to travel to get the class. I don't believe I could travel to pennsylvania though. Any info would help. Are there any classes that could be taken over the internet? Does any body anything about this trainingdivision.com ad in firehouse magizine? Just for info my other certs are Pro-board ff1, DOD ff2, DOD airport ff, DOD driver/operator arff & pumper. I have several class on hazmat from when I was in the Air Force. THey were taught through the national fire academy. Anyway any info will be greatly appreciated.

[Berks2Montco84]

If your Haz-Mat classes were taken through the Air Force, then they should be considered DoD certs, making them acceptable for WSI.

[Capo168]

Check 4 or 5 pages back. Someone had posted some info about a HazMat class down in Louisiana coming up sometime soon. Maybe this will help.

[davidlj1958]

Look at www.dodfire.com goto upper right side click on training then click on the next screen on available training. All of them fill the DoD standard for training. I just put my application in and hope that since I am a former DoD federal firefighter and a retired Maryland Air National Guard firefighter that I stand a good chance. As far as access to the bases just have proper ID and auto insurance. Contact the base in concern and see if you can gain access to the class.

LOCATION COURSE DATE INFO
Great Oaks Institute, Cincinnati OH Fire Officer I 25-29 Oct 05
Peterson AFB CO Fire Instructor III 19-23 Sep 05
Peterson AFB CO Fire Instructor II 12-16 Sep 05
Peterson AFB CO Fire Officer IV 11-22 Jul 05
Peterson AFB CO Fire Inspector II 4-8 Aug 05
Texas Engineering Extension Service (TEEX), College Station TX Link to the TEEX's 2005 DoD Training and Education Schedule at College Station Link to TEEX DoD Training and Education Web Site
Fort Gordon Fire Officer I 14-18 Nov 05
Camp Pendleton Fire Instructor II 5-9 Dec 05
Camp Pendleton Fire Officer II 7-11 Nov 05
Fort Gordon Fire Instructor I 17-21 Oct 05
Camp Pendleton Fire Instructor I 1-5 Aug 05
3-7 Oct 05
Camp Pendleton Fire Officer I 11-15 Jul 05
5-9 Sep 05
Fort Gordon Fire Officer I 22-26 Aug 05
Fort Gordon Fire Inspector III 18-22 Jul 05
Westover ARB MA Fire Officer I 8-12 Nov 05
MFRI, College Park MD Fire Inspector III 6-10 Dec 05
MFRI, College Park MD Fire Instructor I 1-5 Nov 05
MFRI, College Park MD Fire Officer III 5-16 Dec 05
MFRI, College Park MD Fire Officer II 14-19 Nov 05
MFRI, College Park MD Fire Officer I 24 Oct - 4 Nov 05
MFRI, College Park MD Fire Inspector II 19-23 Sep 05
MFRI, College Park MD Fire Inspector I 12-16 Sep 05
MFRI, College Park MD Fire Instructor II/III 31 Oct - 4 Nov 05
MFRI, College Park MD Fire Instructor I 24-28 Oct 05
MFRI, College Park MD Apparatus D/O Pumper 25-28 Jul 05
MFRI, College Park MD Apparatus D/O Aerial 11-13 Jul 05
Vance AFB OK Fire Inspector I/II 1-12 Aug 05
17-28 Oct 05
Vance AFB OK Fire Instructor II/III 27 Jun - 1 Jul 05
Bangor ME Fire Instructor I 11-15 Jul 05
Bangor ME Fire Officer I 18-22 Jul 05
Bangor ME Fire Officer II 25-29 Jul 05
Bangor ME Fire Inspector I/II 14-25 Mar 05
Crane IN Fire Instructor I 17-21 Oct 05
Crane IN Fire Officer I 1-5 Aug 05
24-28 Oct 05
Crane IN Fire Officer II 8-12 Aug 05
31 Oct - 4 Nov 05
Crane IN Fire Inspector I/II 15-26 Aug 05
28 Nov - 9 Dec 05
Crane IN Fire Instructor II/III 29 Aug - 2 Sep 05
14-18 Nov 05
Grissom ARB IN Fire Inspector I/II 22 Aug - 2 Sep 05
Grissom ARB IN Fire Instructor II/III 6-10 Jun 05
SC Fire Academy, Columbia SC Airport Firefighter 6-11 Jun 05
WVU Fire Service Ext, Morgantown WV Fire Officer I 18-22 Jul 05
WVU Fire Service Ext, Morgantown WV Fire Officer II 18-22 Jul 05
WVU Fire Service Ext, Morgantown WV Fire Officer III 18-22 Jul 05
WVU Fire Service Ext, Morgantown WV Fire Officer IV 18-22 Jul 05
WVU Fire Service Ext, Morgantown WV Fire Instructor I 18-22 Jul 05
WVU Fire Service Ext, Morgantown WV Fire Instructor II 23 Jul 05 - TBD
WVU Fire Service Ext, Morgantown WV Fire Instructor III 24 Jul 05 - TBD
WVU Fire Service Ext, Morgantown WV Fire Apparatus D/O - Pumper 18-22 Jul 05
WVU Fire Service Ext, Morgantown WV Hazardous Materials Operations 17-19 Jul 05
WVU Fire Service Ext, Morgantown WV Hazardous Materials Technician 20-24 Jul 05
Yuma AZ Fire Instructor II 8-12 Aug 05
Yuma AZ Fire Instructor I 1-5 Aug 05
Pearl Harbor HI Fire Officer I 21-28 Oct 05
Pearl Harbor HI Fire Inspector I 17-21 Oct 05
Pearl Harbor HI Fire Instructor I 3-7 Oct 05
Great Oaks Institute, Cincinnati OH HAZMAT Technician 11-15 Jul 05
SC Fire Academy, Columbia SC NFPA Airport Fire Fighter 12-17 Dec 05
SC Fire Academy, Columbia SC NFPA Airport Fire Fighter 14-19 Nov 05
SC Fire Academy, Columbia SC NFPA Airport Fire Fighter 3-8 Oct 05
SC Fire Academy, Columbia SC NFPA Airport Fire Fighter 12-17 Sep 05
MFRI, College Park MD Apparatus D/O Pumper 25-28 Jul 05
Barstow CA Fire Instructor II & III 11-15 Jul 05
Tobyhanna Army HAZMAT Tech Refresher 9 Dec 05
Quantico Fire Officer IV 19-30 Sep 05
Palmdale CA Rescue Systems 1 & 2 18-26 Jul 05
MCAS Beaufort SC Fire Officer I 14-18 Nov 05
MCAS Beaufort SC Fire Instructor I 10-14 Oct 05

[Skanocom34]

well sounds like things are getting hectic again with the company...it probably was smart of them to put people on hold...referencing the gear issue...lots of guys still don't have gear so it was probably best that they hold off for a little bit to get things worked out...just as an fyi...some of you guys are having problems going but my fiancee is having problems coming home...he was supposed to fly out of baghdad like 2 days ago to come home on r&r...but guess what..he's still there and looks like they aren't flying today at all...i know its not a company problem..but still...problems exist...

i'm not blaming anyone or trying to spread negativity...just sucks a lot...

[scfirewife41]

Hey, anyone going to LSU for Hazmat? FL isn't Proboard or IFSAC for Hazmat and we are trying to find somewhere to challenege or recert....

Anyone know of any other - please throw our way!

Thanks

Suz

[ladyauxillary]

Hey everyone !!
I hate that all you guys are having all this trouble with the certs. BAMA got all his stuff proboarded thru the Alabama Fire College. It is a standard process for them now. He had a few that was not thru the proboard and I sent them in and got them done. i guess we are one of the lucky ones that they recognized. Try contacting them and see if they hace a course if your near us.
They are located in Tuscaloosa AL. It is a part of Shelton State Community College. Maybe this will be a help.
Take care and be safe !!!!!

Renae

[L13firefighter]

NC is IFSAC HAZMAT up through Operations, which is level 1. There are several classes held throughout the state all the time. We have one starting up here at our station soon. Email at L13firefighter@hotmail.com if you need any info on it.

[Geff2575]

My interview was schedueled for today. Well I just got the call. My interview has been postponed for "several monthes". Monique couldn't give me a date. So there you have it. She did say that they would call me to rescheduel when they were hiring again. Thats about all I found out. I think it was already said but this sucks da## it. I want to go.

[rscamaro73]

Originally posted by Geff2575
My interview was schedueled for today. Well I just got the call. My interview has been postponed for "several monthes". Monique couldn't give me a date. So there you have it. She did say that they would call me to rescheduel when they were hiring again. Thats about all I found out. I think it was already said but this sucks da## it. I want to go.

I got the same exact fone call too bro....I'm a lil ticked off as well.

ANYWAYS.....I guess I can either hold off and wait..........submit an app to KBR.......or look at Cochise at a security job ;)

[Capo168]

To anyone needing Pro Board or IFSAC certification in FF I/II and HazMat Awareness/Ops. contact me immediately. I have a cantact who can "meet our requests" tomorrow. YES, I SAID TOMORROW. I know that this is short notice. We knew it would be, just not this short. If you can get to Philadelphia airport by 8am tomorrow morning, you can make it on time. If you are local her in New Jersey or Pennsylvania, you can drive there. Conatct me and I can get you directions.

You will need full turnout gear and copies of ALL your current certs from your local, county or state fire academies. If you are local and can bring SCBA and spare bottle, do so. If you are traveling a great distance by plane and do not want to carry this, just bring your gear and you can use the Bucks county academy's SCBA or share with other guys.

You all have my e-mail by now, my phone number if you need it is: (732) 312-3662.

I am also going to try to schedule a similar challenge exam type situation fot July for all of those of you who can't make it tomorrow or who are not in as big of a time crunch as I and other are. It will probably be for late July, as the guy doing this for us is going out on medical leave until July sometime. I will post info here when I get it for all to view.

[rscamaro73]

If this is going on at the Bucks County training center in Doylestown, that's a hop away from me :)

Timing sucks....but then again, lter in July might work. I might call a few friends and pull some strings for me (and see if I can get any others pulled).

Thanks for hooking this up.

[osmermb]

I got the same phone call as well today. But I got hired by KBR last week at kandahar afgan. Same money and benifits. When the guy called me he said I could have left that week so I'm flying out on june 26th. If anybody wants the info just e-mail me at osmermb@yahoo.com

[Capo168]

The "crash Course" is at the Bucks COunty Public Safety Training Center. Here is the link to their site. They provide directions all the way down on the left. http://www.bucks.edu/publicsafety/ or http://www.bucks.edu/publicsafety/directions.html

[rscamaro73]

Yup Capo...I've trained there before. Used to go over with my fellow USMC reservists there (Willow Grove NAS is a few minutes south of there).

Once you get a date for the end of July....lemme know, and I'll see what I can do to help out ( I need a FF2 cert myself ).

:D

[osmermb]

http://www.dodfire.com/JOBS/KBR_9_may_05.pdf

Here is the link for the KBR jobs

[CorreeyW]

Does anyone know where I can get an Airport FF class?

[filldabox10]

Has anyone received a letter from WSI yet regarding the delay? Just curious. I have already talked to my current boss and thank god he is understanding. He told me I have a job for as long as I need one. I am just hoping it isn't that long!

[gascott]

LIke names of companies that are employing fire fighters.

[firemedic270]

In Houston, can't talk long...just wanted to BUMP.

Info on Iraq was very low.

Everyone trying to get over, good luck. We have definitely been told in Houston that things are on hold after the June groups go through.

It's time for bed. Early day tomorrow but done early as well. Have a great night. Tyler

[vburgfirewife]

getting low, want to keep this on the first page. Bump.

[Capo168]

Here is your chance folks. We went out to Bucks County Public Safety Training Center yesterday. What a GREAT group of fire service PROFESSIONALS out there. They were SO helpful, and will continue to be so.

They are going to set up a challenge weekend to help out all those who need IFSAC/Pro Board certification in FF I & II and HazMat Awareness & Ops. It is being set up for July 23rd & 24th. As I get more info, I will post it here. This should give everybody plenty of time to prepare and make travel arrangements.

You will have to contact: Assistant Director, Certification & Curriculum Earl "Rob" Freese III, MS freesee@bucks.edu
(215) 340-8476. He is going to co-ordinate this for us and WSI. He will register you and send you all the materials that you will need to study for the tests and skills sheets that you will be re3quired to perform for the skills. These guys are here to HELP us, but require that you meet ALL the REQUIREMENTS. They will NOT just wave you through, but will make a legitimate attempt to do everything thay can to get YOU to PASS.

Any other questions, feel free to contact me via e-mail at: jlk0530@hotmail.com, or via cell phone until Monday the 20th at (732) 312-3662.....please do not call this number after the 20th, as I will be leaving it home with my wife, and she will be unable to assist you.

Stay Safe all. Hope to meet ALL of you one day, either in "da box" or back home here or on holiday in some warm tropical climate.

[bullwinkle35]

ive not recieved a delay letter yet although my boss has been asking for one the second i told them i was being delayed. im not complaining and i set a new date tenative -not on paper- of around late september. this is the time im guessing for people because the 10 dollar question now is so, when will you go?

[Perry23]

hello out there did anyone get departure orders today just wandering

[Capo168]

Recv'd itenerary for Houston today Perry. Will be leaving Newark, NJ at 1050 hrs. Arriving Houston 1338. Anyone else for the same flight ?

All the folks leaving on the 20th, go to WSIFireRescueJune6rs-subscribe@yahoogroups.com to subscribe to the Group site that was set up for our guys. Have a great bunch of guys in Iraq already, some in Houston, and the rest of us are going the 20th. Welcome aboard the rollercoaster.

[mattox127]

Capo, Monique said I got on the June 20th list. How were you notified about the itinerary? I didn't receive anything today. I will pay you for the patches in Houston.

Mattox

[Perry23]

Capo 168 are you bringing any extra patches with you to Houston ?
I was told last week we were departing August or September.
Going to have busy couple of days packing and the like.
Anyone else from the Buckeye leaving Monday the 20th ?

[Capo168]

mattox...Perry,

i recv'd my iten