Free Amanda's Story by Brian O'Grady Page B

distance and helicopter engines in the foreground, echoed throughout the massive structure. “Unfortunately, the only road connecting Tela with the rest of the world was washed away last night. As a result, we need to pare down our supplies to the bare essentials because we are catching a ride with the Honduran air force. Who’s ridden in a helicopter before?” Bernice excitedly raised her arm, but only two others in the group of fourteen joined her.
    Amanda’s heart sank. For obvious reasons she was not a big fan of flying, and now she would have to fly in something without wings.
    â€œWe are going to have to scale back our goals, at least until we can re-establish reliable transportation.”
    â€œSo you’re saying that helicopters are not reliable?” It was one of the two physicians who now asked the very question that had popped into Amanda’s head.
    â€œFor those of you who do not know Dr. Greenburg’s history, he started out as a standup comedian, but turned to medicine after nearly starving.” Everyone laughed at the not-so-inside joke. Dr. Greenburg easily tipped the scales at three hundred pounds.
    â€œNow, as I was saying, we’re going to have to make do with less for a while, but we still have critical objectives. First and foremost is communications. Next is medical. The two-hundred-plus estimate may be wildly inaccurate—and remember, that’s just for Tela; it doesn’t include the surrounding villages. Triage will be critical. Review your manuals, and if in doubt, ask someone.” Bernice’s gaze casually wandered Amanda’s way. “Does everyone have their PDAs?” Half the group waved their devices in the air. “Good. I’ve updated everyone’s responsibility for the next three days.” She turned to Dr. Greenburg. “I figure that’s how long it will take before the trucks and all the rest of our equipment will take to reach us. Oh, one more thing before I turn it over to the general. There is word that the hospital ship Mercy will be on site in two days, so we may get resupplied directly from the Navy. Now let me introduce General Regara of the Honduran Air Force.”
    â€œGood afternoon, and welcome to my country. I want to thank each one of you for assisting us in this time of need.” General Regara was a small, compact man with the same thick dark mustache that adorned every Honduran soldier. “We plan to use six helicopters, two for personnel, two for supplies, and a final pair for a security escort. I know that this is not something we discussed …” He directed his last comment to Bernice Scott. “But we are getting some confusing reports from the area about possible looting. It is my responsibility to ensure your safety. These men will also be available to assist you with setting up your camp and crowd control if it is needed. They are not authorized to direct or impede your movements, within the confines of our law. They will also carry additional communication equipment and can help with the local dialects.” The general paused, waiting for questions or comments.
    â€œWell, I for one think it’s a great idea. Now I have someone to do all my heavy lifting,” Dr. Greenburg joked.
    â€œPlease don’t expect to be carried, Doctor; we don’t need a bunch of soldiers with hernias,” Bernice answered, and even General Regara chuckled.
    â€œWe plan to land at the airport if it is at all possible. Unfortunately, the airport in Tela is fairly close to the sea, and we expect at least a moderate degree of damage. We have chosen a backup landing site located approximately two kilometers from town if the airport is unsafe. This may mean that you will have to walk to Tela on your own. Perhaps we can find a good strong burro for the Doctor.” The group began to loosen up, and their laughter was a bit more natural. “Logistically, the airport is probably the