At the base -- the logistical hub for coalition forces in Iraq (about 40 miles north of Baghdad) – the group visited DFAC (Dining Facility instead mess or chow hall) and spent a few hours at the DVQ (Distinguished Visitors Quarters). In fact, Haven should receive her own acronym – ITG (IZOD Trophy Girl). She and Sarah Fisher already received major props for donning the Kevlar flak jacket and helmet for portions of the flight on the air highway between Bahrain and Iraq.
Haven, who will return for another season of making sure she's photogenic in the IZOD firesuit in Victory Circle, has held her own with the drivers in the number of autographs and photographs requested at tour stops in three countries and the aircraft carrier Abraham Lincoln at sea. Enlisted men break a shy smile and jab each other in the ribs like high schoolers, which isn't far off (the average age on the USS Abraham Lincoln is 20).
"The tour has been one of the best experiences of my life," she says. "It's amazing that we're here to thank them for what they're doing and they're telling us we've made their month, that we've really made a difference by coming out to see them. They have great work ethics and show a lot of passion for their country.
"It makes me really proud to be an American and to see these guys, shake their hands, sign an autograph or take a picture with them."
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