Air Force Protocol: Living Large

I'm writing to you from the "DV" suite of Shaw Air Force Base near Sumter, SC. And oh, what a joy it is! Book tour like this? I could do more.

For those unfamiliar with military jargon, "DV" stands for "distinguished visitor" -- and for some strange reason, that is me. At least for tonight.

As the keynote speaker at the base officer's spouse's club fundraiser event, I have been treated very much like a dignitary. Prior to my arrival, one of the officer's spouses emailed me about any special needs -- childcare, pets, and so forth. She gave me directions and a cell phone number.

Upon arrival, the wing chaplain's wife (the wife of the most senior chaplain on base) met me at my room (which had been paid for) with a key, waited while I dressed then escorted me to the officer's club for dinner.

Despite the fact that I was looking forward to the evening, it was hard leaving such a lovely suite. The large bedroom consists of a raised king bed with cozy sheets and tons of pillows, a desk, a dresser, an accent chair, side tables, television and a slew of newspapers. If I need to shine my shoes, a shoe-shiner awaits. There are even extra "stars" available for your uniform, in case you forgot yours (hmmmmm....nah!)

In the humongous walk-in closet are fluffy bathrobes, a laundry basket, the usual duvets and pillows and -- I love this one -- a putter, two golf balls, a rolled up putting green and a little thingamajig that catches the balls. Basically, all the paraphenalia for practicing your putt! (So THAT'S what retired generals do in their spare time...)

The bathroom boasts oversized, monogrammed bath sheets and a carpeted floor that is oh-so-soft on your feet. And the living room has the largest mini bar I've ever seen (even in Hollywood), a dining table set for a king, another full bath and a kitchenette with fine china (Noritake). You could easily sit four or five people there, in front of the fully stocked entertainment center (the DVD on hand just happened to be "Black Hawk Down" -- a favorite of military men everywhere).

Clearly, the guests who visit are very distinguished indeed. The visitor's book includes many a colonel and more than a few generals. And now me, of course!

After my arrival at the Carolina Skies Club (this base is host to several squadrons of fighter pilots -- hence the name), someone brought me a drink. We enjoyed a lovely dinner, after which I spoke, signed books and chatted. The wing chaplain's wife escorted me back to my room.

The waiter had given me a delicious chocolate dessert to take back with me. Of course, waiting for me in the room were homemade cookies, a goodie basket, a gift from the base commander's wife (who had been unable to attend) and no less than three thank-you notes. Amazing!

Tomorrow, the wing chaplain's wife is taking me out for breakfast. She has also invited me to come back in two weeks, when Mark has finally arrived, to join them for the National Day of Prayer luncheon here on base, when the Deputy Chief of Chaplains, Ch. Richardson -- a very godly man -- will be speaking. We accepted the gracious invitation and are looking forward to it.

Very forward, as you can tell. As Mark says, "The Air Force certainly does protocal well."

Well, they certainly do. What a treat, too. Book tour? Like this? Any day!

With Southern love,

Annabelle
www.SouthernGirlsGuide.com