Downrange: Our Airman's perspective Published Jan. 11, 2010 By Airman 1st Class Shen-Chia Chu 436th AW Public Affairs DOVER AIR FORCE BASE, Del. -- Rank/Name: Airman First Class Patrick T. Cunningham Unit: 436th Security Forces Squadron Deployed Unit/Location: 332nd Expeditionary Security Forces Squadron Describe your job at your deployed location: I control entry to the busiest flightline America possesses in Iraq. I check to make sure the perimeter is secure, respond to indirect fire attacks and work at the gate. Third-country nationals and generals must come through me before making it to the ramp. What is one of the most memorable experiences? I'm bewildered by the presence of trees and water falling from the sky. I have heard that Iraq's reputation has always been one of desolation and heat, so I thought the Air Force had sent me to the wrong continent! How did your job at Dover prepare you for your deloyed duties? Entry control is what I've been trained to do and Dover has prepared me to deploy to Iraq for that exact purpose. Methods of inspection, training in use of force, and the professionalism of the 436th Security Forces Squadron have helped me to perform the mission for my deployment. The cry of the C-5 Galaxy back home has helped to prepared my ears for the roar of the F-16 Fighting Falcon. How did Dover's airlift mission affect your deployed mission and/or quality of life there? I've managed to catch sight of several Dover aircraft from my post, dropping off cargo every day. Because of the hardwork from Dover Airmen back at homestation, I'm able to protect cargo shipped here for Operation Iraqi Freedom.