From the front Published Nov. 20, 2006 EGLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. -- Name: Maj. Gary White, 86th Fighter Weapons Squadron Unit (current): Multi-National Force Iraq, Deputy Chief of Staff for Strategic Effects, US Embassy, Iraq, Office of National Unity Job description: Disarmament, Demobilization and Reintegration Action Officer. Developing the overall plan to dissolve the militias and allow their members to become productive citizens again. What will you remember about your deployment 20 years from now? We really did make a difference in Iraq. What's the most useful item you packed? Ear plugs and eye patches so you can sleep through snoring tent roommates and mortar/rocket attacks. What do you wish you had packed? A sleeping bag. When did you realize you weren't in Kansas anymore, aka your "Dorothy" moment? Day Two in-country when we got our first "Duck and Cover." Have you gained or lost weight? How did it happen? Despite a sometimes endless supply of food at the DFAC, I have managed to maintain my weight thanks to a lot of time in the gym. What has this deployment taught you? I'm sure glad I chose the Air Force. What new survival skill have you learned? Sleeping with earplugs can be very relaxing. What will you buy with your hazardous duty pay or other $ garnered from your deployment? Every time I deploy, I seem to come home to a new horse. What food are you craving most and what will your first meal be when you return? DFAC food is pretty good but I have to say I miss squadron lunches at Buffalo Wild Wings.