You know you've been mortared when...

Mortar attacks are common place for Soldiers serving in Iraq. Anaconda sees it's fair share of mortar rounds arching in over the perimeter and exploding at random somewhere on base. Volleys come in twice a day on average. Thankfully the Iraqi's are attacking in a hurry and don't take a lot of time to range their shots for accuracy. Most often the rounds explode harmlessly in the open areas of the FOB.

Sometimes the attackers get "lucky" and their rounds hit near or on buildings occupied by Soldiers. The rounds fired are most often anti-personal rounds the size of a pop can - 60mm. Small explosive charge, limited damage area. (Doesn't really make us feel any better to know these facts though.)

Radar installations pick up the rounds as they come in and sirens announce the attack. Soldiers drop what they are doing and head for the safety of the concrete block and sand bag bunkers.

So, how do you know when the rounds hit too close for comfort?

The Bumblebees. You hear Bumblebees...

If you are far enough away from the mortar round explosion you will hear it and see the cloud of smoke and dust but that's about it. However, if the round lands close, along with the explosion you also hear the sound of the shrapnel as it whizzes past you. I was told, by an authority on the subject, that the sound it makes is a lot like the sound a bee makes as it buzzes. But the sting of this bee is a whole lot more dangerous.