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Here in Guatemala, you never know what or who
may turn up on your doorstep.
For instance, one fine morning a small group
of soldiers walked into the Mercy Wings hangar.
From my office directly opposite the main doors,
I could see this group walking toward me.
It is a long walk 120 feet to be exact; there
boots making a familiar sound on the polished
concrete floor.
A Colonel wearing three stars and a general
wearing two branches.
These were closely followed by four others
soldiers, privates. These were not your
every day privates, these were special security
for high government officials; and they looked
it.
I met the military group mid-hangar and after
some introductions the General levied his
request. He was looking for a place for
his detachment of men to sleep while they
awaited the arrival of some unspecified
dignitary. He further assured me that his
men would only need floor space and would make
no other requirements of our facility.
I told him "sure, glad to help". With
that He made a few gestures and things began
happening double quick and in military order.
Large trucks rolled up and a few hundred
soldiers jump off, they unload weapons racks,
foam for field mattresses, and food enough to
feed an army (no pun intended).
With military efficiency they were settled
and making dinner within 30 minutes. They
were our guests for three days. I did make
only one request of my own, that the aircraft
not be approached or touched in any way.
Like the disciplined soldiers they appeared to
be, none even looked in the direction of the
aircraft they were sharing the hangar with.
Being a former Marine, I have a soft spot in
my heart for soldiers. These were all
about their mission and professionalism.
At the conclusion, there was no sign that
hundreds of soldiers had been present for three
days. No trash, garbage, or footprint were left
behind.
The Mercy Wings Mission is to serve the
people of Guatemala in whatever way we can.
Even if it is just being a good neighbor.
I hope to see them again in the future.
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