~1300 hours mission time (10:00 MST)
I land in Phoenix, none the worse for wear, text Tom and let him know I'm on the ground. He replies with the exfiltration plan once my gear is recovered.
1330 hours -
After switching baggage reclaim carousels without the airline informing us, I retrieve my suitcase from the carousel and await the arrival of my Pelican case. It doesn't show. I text Tom.
1345 hours -
I locate the AA baggage claim office, they have my case. I am informed that declared firearms usually are marked for pickup at the airline baggage claim office. Would've been nice to know that ahead of time, but I've got my gear now and it's all there.
1350 hours -
Having arranged with Tom to be picked up near the originally indicated baggage claim, there is a comical exchange of frantic texts and phone calls as I try to determine which door in the terminal Tom should pick me up at. I end up running down the sidewalk chasing him as he heads to the door I have incorrectly directed him to.
1400 hours -
Tom and I depart Phoenix Sky Harbor International and head towards Casa de Tacticat to commence logistical operations. Desert Tempest is rapidly becoming a viable undertaking, despite minor setbacks.
1430 hours -
We are greeted at Casa de Tacticat by no other than the proprietor himself, Mr. Tacticat! He gets a rub from Tom, gives me an evil stare and a hiss. I laugh and offer him my hand to smell, he swats it disdainfully and walks away.
1445 hours -
Tom and myself roll out to the RV storage unit to retrieve the Mobile Operations Command Center. It's hooked up and rolling in record time.
1530 (12:30 MST) -
Mike, Matt (Justice Brothers Rep) and friend John, Tom, and myself commence loading the MOCC with the requisite supplies and gear for the imminent critical phase of Operation Desert Tempest. Gear is checked, and double checked. The all clear is given, and the crew goes mobile. The AO awaits!