One more challenge for this civilian on board the C-130 has been trying to catch up on some rest. Many of the Airmen have ways to pass time if they are not on duty during flights to and from theatre.

They have laptops and watch movies, some read books, others listen to iPods. For me it's trying to sleep.

The C-130 has stretchers for injured soldiers called litters on board. I have climbed on these litters to catch a few hours sleep with some difficulty. First they are stacked four high and I climb a ladder and squeeze into one.

First time I did this I bumped my head on some metal piece under the top litter cutting my bald head. Once I get onto the litter I try to turn over to find a comfortable position. In doing so I bump into the person above me causing them to wake up.

Once I get into a comfy position and fall asleep I wake up after awhile because my fingers or feet have fallen asleep or numb because of the vibrations of the aircraft. It's OK though. Just being able to lay flat and sleep is better than sleeping coach on a commercial flight. So this is really quality legroom being able to stretch out for a guy like me.