Yacko - just use the trip trade form. It just has to be in writing... you can even fax it on a napkin, as long as it's in writing. The bid pack also gives guidance on how to inform planning on your military duty so you're not dealing with this at the last minute.

Also - there are websites just for Mesaba pilots, your union rep, Captains you fly with, your ALPA mentor and many better avenues to get advice than a public message board like this.