Try reposting, I'm sure someone knows. I find it hard to believe you've gotten no answers. FReepers are generally knowledgeable, keep trying.
Have a safe journey and thanks.
The larger bases all have phone/Internet centers set up. The phone centers require that you purchase an AAFES phone card, but the rates are not as expensive as you fear. The Internet centers are all run 24 hours a day free of charge, and you can of course access e-mail as well as the WWW from there. Most of them even have webcams so you and Suzie can see each other while you chat.
The lines can get long. It depends what time of day/night you go there. Helpful hint: bring your own laptop; you may be able to plug it into a dropline at the Internet center without having to wait in line.
For phones Iridium's not a bad idea; most company-sized units and larger have at least one, but it tends to be used mainly for official communications with higher headquarters back in the US. If you want a dedicated personal sat phone, you can bring your own, but Iraq's not exactly short of Iridium phones right now. I'm sure you can find someone to loan you one.
Conclusion: communications facilities are widespread and easily accessible. Unless you anticipate a situation where you have to call Mama RIGHT THIS VERY MINUTE, you don't need your own personal (expensive) Iridium phone.
ThreeTracks