Danno's Final Trip (Hopefully)

Danno left on a great trip from the 13th to the 28th of last month. The crazy part is, this might be his final trip in the C-17! We have one month left in the reserves here before he transfers to the California Air National Guard to fly UAVs. It was a tough decision for him, but after a ton of thought and prayer, we feel this is the right move for our family. I know he is getting tired of being gone, especially now that Sam is old enough to comprehend his daddy is missing.

This trip was a special one, in that he carried a ton of generals and admirals around the world as part of a class they have to attend. Since his passengers were busy with classes and meetings, he and his crew were able to play! Their first stop was Tel Aviv.

The port of Joppa, where Jonah set sail from.
Jerusalem as seen from the Mount of Olives. The Golden Gate of the old city, which was sealed up long ago. Dan outside the Garden Tomb. What an incredible experience he had! The wailing wall. Dan said a prayer for us here. It can't hurt, right?!Their next stop was Masada, an old fortress built by Herod. Then they got to float on the dead sea.Apparently the mud is very good for you, so everyone plasters it on. Dan and his crew, the goofballs they are, didn't hold back.The next stop was Turkey. They visited Ankara and Istanbul. Outside of the Blue Mosque in Istanbul.The Haggia Sophia, a church that was turned into a mosque, and is now a museum.Cisterns in the old city, built in the 200's.Danno at the Grand Bazaar. After touring Turkey, they spent time in Serbia, Sicily, and Rome. Danno loved Rome, and I have to admit I am jealous!The Coliseum.The Roman Forum from Palatine Hill.

The Pantheon.
On the way to the Sistine Chapel, part of the Vatican Museum.Danno's crew in part of the Vatican Museum. So much stuff!

The guys in front of St. Peter's Basilica. Danno even got to see the Pope leaving the Vatican. He happened to be there on Ash Wednesday, and was giving a mass that day.

The last stop was Brussels, which meant more chocolate for us, and waffles for Danno. What a great experience for him. I am glad he got to have a fun one for his last mission, and so glad he may never have to go back to Iraq or Afghanistan (knocking on wood right now)!