3 Fort Polk flights delayed 72 hours due to norovirus outbreak in Kuwait

KALB has received a letter from Colonel Brian Sullivan, the Patriot Brigade commander, stating that three Fort Polk flights have been delayed for 72 hours due to the effects of a norovirus outbreak in Kuwait.

Here is the letter in full:

Patriot Families,

As a result of a Norovirus outbreak in Kuwait, Main Body Flights 3B, 5A, and 5B will be delayed for at least the next 72 hours.

Norovirus is the most common cause of "stomach flu." It causes nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea lasting 24-72 hours, and is highly contagious.

We currently understand that only one Patriot Soldier has shown Norovirus symptoms, and we have implemented all appropriate preventive medicine protocols to maintain the health of re-deploying Patriots.

That said, to ensure the safety of all soldiers and prevent the spread of the virus both here and at home-stations, all incoming and outgoing Kuwait flights have been canceled for the next 72 hours. This situation not only affects 3/10 but many other units that are currently redeploying from the Middle East.

I am very sorry this is happening. I know how excited you are for your Soldier to return. This delay is no doubt disappointing and frustrating, particularly after your Soldier has performed so well. But the last thing we should do is place sick, contagious Patriot Soldiers on planes to potentially transmit this virus to Fort Polk and to your Family.

Please know that we will continue to do everything possible to keep your Patriot Soldier safe and healthy. And we will get him or her home to you as quickly as we can.

We expect flights to resume in 72 hours and will forward new timings for the affected flights as soon as we have them.

I want to personally thank you for your patience and understanding. In no way should we allow this delay to detract from the exceptional achievements of the Patriots during this tour. By, with, and through their Iraqi partners, the Patriots completed the defeat of the ISIS caliphate in Iraq, and through relentless pressure on those ISIS fighters that remain alive, enabling the most secure national elections in the history of a free, democratic Iraq. You should be incredibly proud of your Patriot.

Very Respectfully,

COL Brian Sullivan