LOCAL SOLDIER STATIONED IN GULF LOOKS FORWARD TO THE TRIP HOME

CAPE GIRARDEAU -- A Marine Reservist stationed in Saudi Arabia says it could be anywhere from two weeks to two months before his platoon is sent home.

In a telephone call from an air base near Jabayl, Saudi Arabia, Cpl. Mitch Callis told the Southeast Missourian his platoon is readying to leave for the United States.

"They are telling us anywhere from two weeks to two months, but of course that could change," Callis said. "We never know if something will actually happen until it happens. But I really believe they are going to get us home as soon as they can."

Callis, of Cape Girardeau, is part of a Reserve Marine Weapons Platoon. Right now, the platoon is guarding weapons and ammunition. Last week, they were guarding enemy prisoners of war (EPWs).

Callis said though things have calmed down since the end of the ground war, guarding and talking with the Iraqi prisoners was something he'll not soon forget.

"The most exciting time was when we were actually with the EPWs and guarding them," he said. "Most of the EPWs were glad, just as we were, that there was a cease-fire. About a third of them could speak some English. Most of them said they were forced into the Army, and that they or their families were threatened to get them to join."

Callis said the prisoners were weak and hungry when captured. He said they were unhealthy and some weren't wearing boots.

"For the most part, they genuinely seemed happy the war was over. They were really no threat. They did as they were told and offered no resistance," he said.

After prisoners were processed by allied forces, they were kept for 72 hours in a Marine camp. They were then taken to a camp run by Saudi Arabian troops.

"Most of the EPWs wanted to stay with the Marines," said Callis. "There seemed to be a hatred between them and the Saudis, but they didn't have any choice."

Callis said he and his platoon are still guarding against any possible enemy attack. For the most part, he said, there doesn't seem to be any danger.

"But you still have to keep your guard up and keep watch. Everybody's mind is on going home, and it would be a prime opportunity for a small radical group to try something."

Now that the troops have more free time, Callis said they are writing more letters home and working out by playing, what else, sand volleyball.

Though he's now about 190 miles south of Kafji, Callis said that some time ago, his platoon ventured into the city and witnessed the destruction left by the war.

"It looked worse than any slum I've ever seen," he said. "Buildings were blown up, and debris was everywhere."

But for now, the only move the platoon plans to make is a move home, he said.

"Nothing is for sure," he said. "I heard the reserve combat units would be the first to go, but news doesn't travel well here. You hear a lot of rumors."

When asked what he plans to do first when he returns, Callis said he wants to see his wife.

"I really miss my family and friends at home," he said. "That's the way everybody feels; we're just ready to go home."

Deployed since late December, Callis and his wife, Beth, were married last summer.

His parents are Carol Callis of Cape Girardeau and George Callis of Jackson.