SGT Autumn Hope, fitness trainer for the 314th PAOC, keeps a watchful eye on Soldiers during a fitness test at FOB Prosperity. (Photo by SSG Paul Roberts)

Yes, our days here in Iraq are numbered, but that does not mean the 314th PAOC has slowed down.  In fact, things have sped up — especially for a handful of Soldiers that took a fitness test very early things morning.

In early October, SPC James Clifton, SPC Justin Wright, SGT Emily Anderson and SGT Brad Richardson began an intensive physical training program under the watchful eye of own SGT Autumn Hope.  She volunteered to help these four Soldiers as they prepared for their upcoming Warrior Leader Course at Fort Dix in early December.  The course requires that Soldiers pass a fitness test on the first day. 

Hope also included PFC Christine Bernat as one of her students.   Bernat had only one final hurdle to qualify for advancement to the rank of specialist: to pass today’s fitness test. 

A lean, mean PFC Christine Bernat burns up the running course on FOB Prosperity. (Photo by SSG Paul Roberts)

Those of you familiar with our blog recognize Hope as the winner of the FOB Prosperity Tactical  Strength Challenge and also our unit’s top scorer on the Army Physical Fitness Test (with a score of more than 300).   She spent each afternoon for a month sharing her training secrets and pushing the Soldiers to their limits to prepare them for the test.

The weather today was perfect for a fitness test — cool, dry and calm — as the Soldiers began their stretching.  At 0530 exactly, SFC Adam Daley read the instructions for the test and Hope demonstrated the proper form.   Soldiers have two minutes to do as many pushups and situps as possible, with a minimum required to pass.

About 0550, those two portions of the fitness test were over, and each Soldier, including the five with a huge investment in the results, had passed — some increasing their scores by 10-20 points in the events, thanks to the fitness training of Hope.

LTC Ignacio Perez, Commander of the 314th PAOC, drives a Gator and blasts his air horn to alert oncoming traffic that speedy 314th runners are not far behind. (Photo by SSG Paul Roberts)

The Soldiers then moved to a half-mile track for the last event – a two-mile run where Soldiers need to finish without exceeding a maximum amount of time.  For most of today’s runners, this was a challenge since the recent dusty, hot summer in Baghdad had kept them on a treadmill for training until the last month. 

As they started, it was apparent they had trained well.  They moved quickly down the track, and spotted LTC Ignacio Perez, our unit commander approaching them on a Gator four-wheeled vehicle.  He rode by each of them shouting encouragement to the Soldiers.  After he passed by he sounded an air horn to alert everyone on the track and oncoming Humvees and MRAPs that 314th Soldiers were on their way.

When the run was finished, each of the Soldiers has completed the two miles in passing times, with one taking almost four minutes off a previous run times…but the best was yet to come. 

As the unit came together in the afternoon to celebrate the success of all the Soldeirs, PFC Bernat was called forward by the commander, and each of her fellow Soldiers cheered her as she was advanced to the rank of specialist.

LTC Perez affixes SPC Bernat's new rank during a promotion ceremony at the CPIC. (Photo by SGM Troy Falardeau)

With that promotion, the 314th PAOC record for promotions over the past year increased to nearly 70 percent. 

Congratulations to all of Soldiers who passed today’s APFT!

You might being asking yourself, ‘How can you be in a funk?  Aren’t you coming home soon?’

Yes, the unit is due to return sometime in the next few weeks, but there are still many unknowns, and those unknowns weigh heavily on people who see a light at the end of a tunnel.  The travel plans of the replacement unit, the weather, bureaucratic paperwork, missed forms and overlooked emails, or a myriad of other things can slow down a Soldier who is greatly anticipating reunions with family, friends and, yes, even that civilian job they left more than a year ago.

All that uncertainty, and the unsettling nature it has on our Soldiers, has caused much of the funk and made me think about an Arabic phrase that we Americans here joke about often — ‘inshallah’.  The English language translation is roughly “God willing.”

Sometimes when we ask Iraqis to do something or make a commitment, they answer with ‘inshallah.’  We Americans seem to think it is because they are purposely being evasive, non-committal or lazy.  Perhaps that is true in some cases, but I think maybe there is something more important to the use of this phrase.  It’s about living with reality.

We Americans like to have a plan, but here in Iraq, planning your life seems like time not well spent.  American like to get a commitment, and we get upset when we don’t get what we want when we want it.  In fact, you might say that is the mantra that rules our lives.  If your computer network goes offline in Baghdad, you call 1LT Larrew to fix it immediately….we must have constant connectivity, we demand it.   If you don’t get what you want from a business, move on to one that will give it to you….you are customer and your dollars do the talking.  Or, if you are not happy with your relationship, move on…..there are more fish in the ocean. 

I’m not saying that people should not have expectations or goals, but I think it is unrealistic to build your whole life on the premise that you will always get what you want, when you want it.  Like the old Yiddish proverb (now part of American cuture): Man plans and God laughs.

Yes, our Soldiers want to be home — yesterday, if that were possible.   And yes, we are working as hard as we can to make that wish a reality.  We have prepared briefings and SOPs for our counterparts, packed up gear and shipped it home ahead of schedule, filled out forms in triplicate and sent them to the correct person (followed by a phone call to confirm their arrival), did maintenance on our weapons to make sure we can turn them in quickly, and even cleaned our work areas to remove all of our personal items, to make our replacements’ transition go more smoothly.  But, unfortunately, that does not provide any guarantees.  It only gives the illusion of a guarantee.

We need everyone to know that staking our happiness and mental health on getting what we want, when we want it, based on our experiences in the government, and especially in the U.S. military (the home of ‘hurry up and wait’), is more likely to lead to PTSD than a second year in Iraq.

So instead, I ask that you all support your Soldiers by adding ‘inshallah’ to your vocabulary and your life, at least for the next few weeks.  Realize that none of us (even when working together) can confirm that we will get what we want, when we want it.   There are just too many things that can, and often do, happen unexpectedly to change our best laid plans. 

For now, just know that everyone in the 314th PAOC is ready to come home, and that if all our plans do come to fruition, inshallah, we will be happy to see all of you sooner.  But, if the unexpected does happen, also realize that it may be for some reason that we may not know or appreciate. 

It is tough for all of us to live with that reality, but thankfully, tomorrow is the 314th PAOC’s farewell party from Iraq…a chance for us to say ‘thank you’ to the people and organizations who made our time here more enjoyable and effective…

…well, if it doesn’t rain and the food arrives on time.  Inshallah.

As our frequent blog readers know, the 314th Public Affairs Operations Center is nearing the end of its tour here in Iraq, but the mission goes on. 

Yep, they went through the same training at the 314th PAOC Soldiers. (Photo by SSG Danny E. McCormick)

The United States is committed to staying the course and helping our friends in Iraq to rebuild their nation (each of us in the 314th has many friends that we will be sad to leave).  Part of that ongoing mission here includes supporting the flow of information, and the Combined Press Information Center and the Media Operations Center at the U.S. Embassy here will continue to be front and center in that important mission.  Though the name of the U.S. military heaquarters here will change in the near future, our press conferences, embedded media coordination, English and Arabic language press releases, escort missions, media credentials, and answers to media queries at the press desk will continue. 

And, who will carry out this mission, you ask?  The Soldiers of the 318th Public Affairs Operations Center from Forest Park, Illinois, of course!

They also got to enjoy all that Fort Dix, NJ had to offer. (Photo by SSG Danny E. McCormick)

Soon after this Army Reserve unit arrives in Baghdad, the Soldiers of 314th will work with our successors to ensure we pass on the knowledge we have gained.  We’ll walk them through the places where we have gone (and point out the ones we can’t visit anymore), explain the challenges we had and how we overcame them, and introduce them to our U.S., Iraqi and other friends and colleagues who made our year here more productive and enjoyable.

Some of you readers have asked what you can do to support U.S. Soldiers here in Iraq after we leave….and to answer you I say this:  support the 318th the way you have supported us.  Send them cookies, pray for them, help their families back home, and keep paying your taxes (someone has to pay our wages, right?).  Also, you can get your fix of online info from sunny Baghdad, Iraq by visiting their blog at www.318thpublicaffairsoperationcenter.blogspot.com, where you can continue with news and views of deployed Army Reserve Public Affairs Soldiers (the best job in the Army).

To the members of the 318th, we DEFINITELY welcome you (remember, sooner is better), and we encourage you to follow our lead.  As we did, reach out not only to the far reaches of the world’s Internet community of strangers, but also to your friends and families back home.  You never know whose life you will positively affect or what changes you might bring.  Each of you 318th Soldiers has a powerful tool at your fingertips — so take what we have done, make it your own, make it better (and as the administrator of the 314th blog, I am required by Army regulation to ask you to do it in accordance with AR 530-1).

So, now it's time for them to leave those MREs behind and come on over to Iraq for a year. We'll keep the lights on for you 318th! (Photo by SSG Danny E. McCormick)

And, to our friends, families and loyal 314th blog readers, continue to follow us here as we begin our journey back home over the next few weeks.  Our story is not yet over!

A few of our regular blog readers recently asked us to give you a tour of our dining facility.  That’s DFAC in military-speak, although some of our older readers might remember the military calling it a mess hall (ours is very clean….no mess here).

It took a few days, but I got permission to take pictures in the DFAC.  Our facility is very nice — well lit, clean, and lots of room for all of us Soldiers, civilian employees, contractors and even some local nationals.  It’s also a very secure building and well protected from enemy attack. 

After you enter the building, the first step is to clean up.  Signs announce that the best way to avoid disease is to wash your hands.  From my personal experience, the DFAC is the cleanest place on the FOB (and it also has the cleanest latrines), so I am more than willing to follow through on that request.   There are rows of soap dispensers, sinks and paper towels to get you on your way (I didn’t take pictures of the latrines…just take my word for it, they are clean).

Once you are giving permission to proceed, the world is your oyster (or veal cutlet).  Your first choice — eat in or take out.  Personally I like eating in.  The place is always filled with laughter, the sound of televisions, pots clanging….lots of activity.  My office is pretty quiet, so it’s a nice change of pace.  It’s always a great place to sit with friends and talk about life (please, no talking about work in the DFAC!!!).   But, if you really do need to get back to work quickly — and all of us are in that position sometimes — then you get the styrofoam 3-compartment container and some plastic utensils.

I must say at this point that all DFACs in Iraq are not created equal.  Some are very small.  In fact, some remote locations are pretty sparse.  Our Soldiers there get very little (if any) selection.  Luckily, those type of facilities are becoming rarer and rarer as the landscape of our presence in Iraq changes.  I’d say the DFAC at FOB Prosperity is a good size, but I have been in bigger.  

Since our DFAC is pretty good sized, we have a good selection of food.  We have a main line with a special menu of the day.  It might be steak and shrimp or it might be meatloaf.   It seems that many of our Soldiers, including LTC Perez, like it when it’s Mexican night in the main line.   However, our Executive Officer MAJ Lincoln nearly knocks people over on the way out of the office if he hears that pulled pork is on the main line.  Personally, I am not a big main line fan.

Besides the main line, we also have a sandwich line with all the fixings, and they will even grill it for you (mmmmm, melted cheese on pastrami).  Lots of our Soldiers take this line for lunch…and a cup of soup.

The next line over is the international line.  I am not sure why they call it that since the only thing they have there is spaghetti, a taco bar, and a couple types of curry.  Despite the misnomer, I do like the curry, and one of my new favorite foods is cauliflower curry.  It soaks up the flavor….in fact, I am salivating now just thinking of it. 

Just so you don’t think I hate vegetables, I will let you know there is a great salad bar with dozens of selections…and I have been seen grazing there.  You would hardly believe you are in a war zone in a desert with all the choices of fresh foods there. 

Before you sit down with that food you selected, don’t forget to stop by the drink area.  Although alcohol is off-limits in accordance with General Order #1, you can get a non-alcoholic beer in the drink lines, as well as sodas, teas, coffee, juices, water and energy drinks.

Oh….I forgot to tell you my favorite part of the DFAC, didn’t I?  Well, anyone who has been around me for even a few days knows my weakness for dessert….and the DFAC does nothing to help me curb that appetite for sweets.  Yes, they do put a beautiful selection of fresh fruit next to the hot cherry crisp ala mode, but come on, do you really think I can pass that up?  They also have a huge glass container filled with pies, cakes, and other desserts that changes every day.  Finally, at the end of the dessert area is my bliss — the ice cream line.  They ship in at least 8 different flavors of Baskin-Robbins Ice Cream….and then put a whole cart full of toppings right next to it.   If you have never had strawberry ice cream with pineapple chunks, drizzled chocolate sauce and some crumbled sugar cookies, you do not know the meaning of nirvana. 

1LT Joseph Larrew cleans up before entering the DFAC.

1LT Larrew grabs his tray, plate and utensils before choosing his preferred food line(s).

Lots of good food in the main line served by friendly staff.

Most of the staff in our DFAC are from outside Iraq. They run the facility almost non-stop (it shuts down only 2 hours every day).

A DFAC employee scoops up some mashed potatoes and gravy.

This is better than Burger King! Grilled the way you like while you watch (extra onions please).

Today's international line has spicy chicken curry and a mixed vegetable curry.

The taco bar is one of my favorite places....especially when they have guacamole!

This is only side of the salad bar. Lots to choose from...and very fresh.

I love broccoli!

Bacon bits, cheese, croutons? What else could a person want?

Every time one of these trays gets close to empty, a replacement is rushed out to fill the void.

Staying hydrated in Iraq is important...and the DFAC gives you plenty of options.

Coffee -- regular and decaf -- and next to this is a variety of creamers.

Just when you thought it was safe to sit down, you pass by these desserts.

I'm sure my mom is asking, "Why did he ask me to send cookies and fudge?"

After you get a scoop of vanilla ice cream, you might want to put some strawberries or caramel on it.

MAJ Lincoln is a "meat and potatoes" kind of guy.

1LT Larrew prefers his food a little more exotic.

Everyone from Birmingham will be glad to know that Soldiers like SGT Richardson can get sweet tea in Baghdad (well, at least you can at the DFAC).

SPC Clifton knows that nothing goes better with sweet tea than a hot slice of pecan pie.

Of course, you can choose to eat healthy at the DFAC. Every day we get a wide selection of fresh fruit.

The first thing you see when you enter the main hall of the DFAC, and the last thing you see as you exit are U.S. Soldiers. They maintain order, track numbers, and always greet you with a smile.

A sunset picture taken by a Soldier from the 126th PAOC on November 6, 2008.

Karaka –

I wish I could take credit for this sunset picture, since it is very nicely done.  I got it from the archives of previous CPIC units.  It was taken back in 2008, so it has be one taken by a Soldier in the 126th Public Affairs Operations Center.  I looked for information identifying the photographer, but couldn’t find it.  Perhaps someone will comment and tell us who it was.

The picture is taken not far from the previous location of the CPIC, in an area we called Ocean Cliffs (there was no ocean and no cliffs, but the British were there, so they probably named it for their Cliffs of Dover).  Nearby Ocean Cliffs is the Convention Center, the Al-Rasheed Hotel, the Parliment, and offices of Iraqi Prime Minister Nuri al-Maliki.  Lot of stuff going on it that neighborhood!

I can tell it is a sunset picture since we are facing west.  The anchor is from an Iraqi naval vessel.  To the immediate right in the Monument to the Unknown Soldier — a very impressive structure that I had hoped to visit, but that never happened.  I imagine it is as sacred to Iraq’s miltiary members as our own Tomb of the Unknowns at Arlington National Cemetery.

In the distance you can see the famed Crossed Swords which is the entry to a stadium and parade ground where Saddam Hussein staged elaborate displays of his power.   About a mile or so behind that is the current location of the CPIC.

I suppose we can all see some sort of symbolism in the picture, but I will leave the interpretation to the individual. 

Thanks for the request Karaka….and thank you 126th PAOC for the picture.

Del, you asked, and here it is. 

A couple weeks ago, our unit was visited by MG Paul Hamm, Commander, 412th Theater Engineer Command (our higher headquarters).    For those of you in Alabama who attended our farewell event at the Army Reserve Training Center on Montevallo Road, he was our guest speaker. 

Well, this visit gave us lots of opportunities to show off the unit.  Each of our section NCOICs got to make a presentation and show off their Soldiers.

Here is your group photo from that day Del — it’s outside the Combined Press Information Center.

MG Paul Hamm and CSM Ronald Flubacher (center) joined the CPIC staff for a couple hours during their whirlwind tour of 412th TEC units in Iraq. (Photo by SSG Joseph Williams)

For the past 10 months and change, this blog was a lot like the old TV series “Outer Limits” — we (the Soldiers of the 314th PAOC) have controlled the vertical and horizontal, etc.  Well, that has all changed — at least for the next few days. 

Until Friday, our faithful blog readers are going to be in control.  You tell us what you want to see (I’ve got my point-and-shoot camera ready to snap) or what you want to read (got the pen and paper ready, too).

Send your requests to this blog entry as a comment, and we will do our best as long as it does not violate the four forbidden government topics — security (can’t violate national security concerns), accuracy (has to be truthful), propriety (can’t be inappropriate), and policy (can’t go against government rules).

This might be your last chance, so go on….make your request!

Today, one of our interpreters came into my office and asked how I was.  I gave the stock answer: “I can’t complain.” 

The truth is that I am often seen mumbling under my breath about something that irks me. 

After he left, however, I thought about my statement, and some of the things that have happened here in Baghdad over the past few months, and how insignificant my troubles seem in comparison to the events that are affecting people like these:

-  One of custodial staff is a local Iraqi (there are about 10 total).  He’s a wonderful man…a father of four children who drags himself out of bed at 4 a.m. every morning (and I mean EVERY morning — he has no weekends off).  He traverses the red zone (where all the bombs explode) and makes his way to the Combined Press Information Center to spend his 10-hour work day providing grounds maintenance (in extreme heat) and cleaning up after we fortunate American Soldiers leave here in a few weeks.  Unfortunately, he will stay.   Thanks to a bomb that exploded in August, the car that brings him here to work is even less dependable than it was before.  And, how much do you think he makes for all his troubles?  Less for a full day’s work than most of our Soldiers make in one hour working entry-level jobs.

-  Another man I know asked the Americans if he could build a restaurant on one of our forward operating bases about a year ago.  We told him yes, so he spent, by his estimate, about $200,000 creating a very nice building.  Then, we changed the rules and told him he could not open the building.  We told him the food from the local economy is not safe to feed American Soldiers, even though this man has catered all the special events at the CPIC for Soldiers and our guests, and no one has ever become ill.   He is a gracious man who always smiles….maybe because he knows that a frown may ruin any chance he has of someone, anyone, changing the rules again and letting him open his restaurant.

-  A local Iraqi woman who has visited the CPIC wants nothing else but to be a journalist.  She wants to make this country live up to promises of freedom.  She wants to be able to tell the stories that need to be told, but she cannot.  She fears for her life if some of her stories are printed.  Whether or not the fear is real or imagined is not important.  The truth is that Iraq has been the most dangerous place for journalists for the past six years.  When we dedicated the Combined Press Information Center to all those who had died to guarantee the freedoms of the people of Iraq, the number included more than the 4,300 American sons and daughters…it also included the more than 250 media staff that have died here since 2003.

With all this conflict and pain, and the hundreds of other similiar stories I’ve encountered over the past 10 months, you would think that I would become jaded and disillusioned, but just the opposite is true.  I realize that there is pain and suffering everywhere….Iraq is no different than any other place…but there is something special here that keeps me from mumbling too loud when I get upset. 

But, more than the acts of our own Soldiers, I am humbled by the generosity and resiliency of those with even less to give.  Today, our custodial staff — including the man I mentioned at the beginning of this blog — dug into their pockets and, with cooking assistance from their wives, brought our staff a delicious meal of barbequed fish, freshvegetables, stuffed grape leaves, baked bread, and a local dish with rice, dates, and nuts.  As we lined up to take part in this feast, they stood on the side refusing to eat until all of us had our fill. 

As LTC Perez has stated to me on several occasions, our CPIC is an oasis in many ways.  It seems to me that all those who come here have found a way to peacefully coexist and support each other.  So, I really have no right or need to complain.  We might not be able to change the overall course of the nation of Iraq, but together we have all changed the course for many of those who have passed through our doors.  Although we are all ready to leave Iraq, I hope each of us can bring some of that back with us.  Now I ask you, how could I complain about that?

Donzens of individuals and groups -- most strangers -- have sent us boxes of treats to make our time pass by quickly.

SPC Gardner and SGT Lee put smiles on the faces of children at the refugee center.

1LT Larrew poses with some of the friends he has helped during his year in Iraq.

SGT Leech's special friend visits her for a midnight snack (she wants to tell everyone she NEVER touched the cat since that is against the rules and could transmit disease).

As the 314th PAOC prepares for its departure from Iraq, we felt we could not return home without leaving something behind.  Thankfully, we traveled here with a unit filled with gifted artists, and they collectively took up that challenge.

With several cans of paint, some new paint brushes, and a projector, the team of SSG Jeremy Fowler, SSG Paul Roberts, SPC Brittany Gardner and PFC Christine Bernat created a mural that adorns the entrance to the Combined Press Information Center.  Senior U.S. and Iraqi military and government officials pass by their work as they prepare to speak to a world audience.

The mural includes many pertinent elements, such as the skyline of Baghdad, an expansive desert, the crossed swords located near the Memorial to the Unknown Soldier here, and the frequently stunning sunsets.  Of course, we also had to add the symbols of Army journalists — the lightning bolt, quill and sword.  Finally, we added our unit’s motto — Maximum Effort, Minimum Delay.  Collectively, it is quite stunning.

SPC Brittany Gardner (left), lead painter for the t-wall project, poses with fellow 314th PAOC Soldier SGT Mary Lee, in front of the Combined Press Information Center. (Photo by LTC Ignacio Perez)

The mural was painted on one of the t-walls found all over Iraq.  These walls of varying heights are symbolic of the war and the omnipresent threats that we faced each day.  So, it was gratifying to know that our team of artists was able to add a new purpose — a canvas of sorts to show the world the beauty and promise of Iraq, thanks to the sacrifice of millions of Americans and others who traveled here, lived behind these walls, and worked outside them to secure a future for this nation’s peoples.

Keeping family members and friends of 314th PAOC Soldiers “in the know” has always been a prime motivation for the Blogsoverbaghdad.com website.  LTC Ignacio Perez, the unit commander, has worked closely with Mr. Del Tull, our Family Readiness Group coordinator (an intense, under-appreciated and unpaid position) to share all the news from Iraq. 

A couple days ago, LTC Perez sent the following letter to family members and friends of 314th Soldiers through Mr. Tull, to update everyone about the accomplishments behind us and the challenges that lie ahead.

———————————————————————-

Dear Friends and Families,

As we prepare our return home for the holidays, I’d like to share with you my appreciation of the Soldiers for their many accomplishments, as well as for their numerous personal sacrifices to carry out our mission during our year in Iraq.  It took a group of 30 Soldiers—the public affairs dream team—to achieve success, and every member added significance to the organization.  I could not be more proud of these Soldiers for their leadership and commitment to the Army Values and Warrior Ethos.

Since our arrival in Iraq in January 2009, the 314th PAOC has been part of a remarkable period of transition marked by the Security Agreement.  Our Soldiers have been witnesses to history as this nation conducted elections and steered a course toward democracy. We have also seen changes in the political landscape.  Iraqi security forces have assumed greater responsibility in protecting their citizens, and for the first time, control both the roads and skies.  For some of us who served in Iraq previously, adapting from counterinsurgency operations to stability operations was a trying task.  But despite changes to our operational environment, every one of our Soldiers met the challenges with a positive attitude and a steadfast adherence to professional standards. Ultimately, their efforts may seem transparent at much higher levels of authority, but they will be measured as successes among the many Iraqi and Western journalists we have supported.  Every endeavor and good deed made by a Soldier from the 314th PAOC, especially toward local residents, left a positive impression of citizen-Soldiers serving with dignity and courage in their call to duty.

I trust you will share my admiration and pride in the remarkable accomplishments of our Soldiers.  They have undoubtedly left the Combined Press Information Center in Baghdad, Iraq a better place through their enormous talents, creativity, and extraordinary versatility. Here are just a few highlights of their superb performance during the deployment:

·         60% of the Soldiers have advanced in rank

·         Completed over 2,500 hours of military correspondence courses

·         Credentialed over 1,400 members of the media

·         Conducted over 3,100 escort missions

·         Embedded over 400 international reporters in units throughout Iraq

·         Translated over 1,100 press releases

·         Orchestrated more than 100 media events

·         Relocated to a new forward operations base within 72 hours without loss of mission capability

Homecomings are times of great joy, anticipation and anxiety for everyone. As the Soldiers return to their families, homes and careers, I ask for your patience.  It takes time to adjust to relationships, work environments, and even dreams placed on hold.  The reality of deployments is change. We are not the same individuals that bade farewell to you one year ago. We are veterans of war– a little older, and possibly a little weary, but certainly wiser in many aspects.  It is my greatest hope that in spite of the many challenges everyone has faced, all have experienced personal and professional growth.

The Army Reserve expects and encourages its Soldiers to use the first three months back home to reintegrate into the life they left behind a year ago.  We know you have shouldered many additional responsibilities to allow your loved ones to focus on the mission and their safety.  It is likely that you, too, have changed.  We are reminded by experts here to avoid big decisions during this time, so I ask that you also take things one day at a time until your lives together reach a new equilibrium. 

To support those efforts, Soldiers may attend monthly battle training assemblies during this 90-day period, but it is not required.  Also, the Army has special services to help Soldiers and family members during this period, with free medical care for six months and post-deployment counselors who have access to a variety of resources.  The best place to start if you or your Soldier needs support is the Warrior and Family Assistance Center at 1-866-436-6290 or www.arfp.org/wfac.

The outstanding Soldiers of the 314th Public Affairs Operations Center have wrenched life into each assignment from start to finish, and never wavered in the performance of their duties in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. Furthermore, they have distinguished themselves in every aspect of technical and tactical proficiency, and continue to be a driving force through their contributions. I have been privileged to serve alongside a remarkable group of talented men and women who personify the finest reflection of the American Soldier.  Please welcome these warriors home and embrace their dedication to our nation.

Yours sincerely,

Ignacio J. Perez

LTC, U. S. Army

Commanding

Over the past month or so, my stream of blogs has diminished to a trickle.  I apologize to all the regular readers, but preparations for the redeployment of the 314th PAOC back to the United States has been a big undertaking.  As Army Reserve Soldiers, we all realize the impact that redeployment will have on all of us and out familiees, as the resources available to us diminish and/or change once we return home.

I would like to remind all family members and friends of the 314th of a few programs available to Soldiers and their families once they arrive back home.

1.  VA.  The Department of Veterans Affairs has many programs and services for Soldiers.  Some of the most important are the educational and medical benefits. 

a.  The GI Bill educational benefits changed as of August 1, 2009, and now allows a qualified Soldier to transfer his or her entitlements to a spouse or children.  For more information, our Soldiers here have the opportunity to meet with a local Education Center briefer on November 4; those of you at home can check out the program at http://www.gibill.va.gov/.  In addition to the transferability, the new GI Bill has some changes that could impact the amount A Soldier receives for other things like books and housing.  As always, I encourage you and your Soldier to meet with your local VA educational representative to figure out what is best option.

b.  The VA Healthcare System includes hospitals and outpatient clinics across the country.  When we redeploy back through Fort Dix, one of our briefings will be on this program.  Every Soldier will fill out a VA Form 1010EZ that automatically enrolls each of us into the VA Healthcare System in our home state.  During that first five years after our deployment, Soldiers are able to see treatment for conditions related to deployment.

c.  Other stuff.  In addition to these programs, Soldiers also become eligible for VA home loans and employment preference for government jobs.  Check out http://www.va.gov/ for details.

2.  TRICARE.  The military healthcare system is called TRICARE, and while Soldiers are deployed and in the final stage of preparing to deploy, they and their family enjoy treatment though this program.  Thanks to changes a few years ago, Army Reserve Soldiers also have access after they return home.

a.  Unless one of our unit members is returning to a government job, they will likely qualify for the Transitional Assistance Management Program, or TAMP.  This program allows Soldiers and family members to continue on TRICARE at little or no cost if you meet certain eligibility criteria.  That criteria will be confirmed at Fort Dix once we receive our DD 214.  EVERY TPU SOLDIER WILL GET THEIR TAMP CARD BEFORE DEPARTING FORT DIX.  TAMP gives Army Reserve Soldiers 180 days of TRICARE Standard, or TRICARE Prime if you ask for that program.  Go to http://www.tricare.mil/Transparency/ to see the difference costs and benefits these two TRICARE programs.

b.  After your TAMP coverage ends, Army Reserve Soldiers can continue TRICARE coverage with TRICARE Reserve Select, for a relatively low cost.  Check out the program here: www.tricare.mil/reserve/reserveselect/index.cfm.

The cost is only $47.51 per month for an individual, and $180.17 for a family.  If you were enrolled in TRS before you were activated, your coverage will not automatically resume.  You can visit the Guard and Reserve Web Portal at https://www.dmdc.osd.mil/appj/trs/ and follow the instructions to re-purchase the plan.

You must have your TRS Request Form (DD Form 2896-1) in the mail and postmarked within 60 days of the last day of your previous TRICARE coverage (e.g., active duty benefits, TAMP), to receive continuous benefits.

Each 314th Soldiers received details about Army Reserve dental coverage and telephone numbers with more information.

3.  Strong Bonds.  FINALLY we are coming home.  Do you need a free 3-day retreat when your Soldier returns home (transportation provided)?  Or maybe you are single Soldier who wants a chance to relax and recharge? 

If you will reside in the 81st RSC region (Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina or Tennessee) upon your return home — this information is for you.  (IF YOU RESIDE IN ANOTHER AREA OF THE US, CONTACT THE RSC CHAPLAIN’S OFFICE THERE FOR MORE INFORMATION)

The 81st RSC is sponsoring Strong Bonds events in 2010 at no cost to you (and your spouse).  This is a perfect way to re-connect with a spouse, or just enjoy a weekend with other Army Reserve single Soldiers.  Strong Bonds is a unit-based, chaplain-led program that helps Soldiers and their families build strong relationships.  The program website is http://www.strongbonds.org

Each 314th Soldier has received the forms necessary to apply for a weekend in great places like Atlanta, New Orleans, Orlando, or Hilton Head, SC.

4.  WFAC.  I’ve saved the best for last with the Warrior and Family Assistance Center.  The staff here have a motto, “Whatever It Takes,” and they mean it.  They are a one-stop shop to connect Soldiers and their family members with military organizations, government agencies and others who can solve problems.  It doesn’t matter what you need — administrative, medical, legal, financial, benefits, personnel actions, family counseling, etc. — the staff will help Soldiers and family members.  You can see their website at www.arfp.org/wfac or call them 24/7 at 1-866-436-6290.   I’ve personally met and worked with the staff herer, and they are committed to helping Army Reserve Soldiers and families.

The most recent issue of the Army Reserve’s “Warrior Citizen” magazine hit the streets…and this blog site is featured prominently on page 7.  As Public Affairs professionals, our Soldiers know the value of getting the word out.  Many of our younger unit members are also “social media” experts, with MySpace, FaceBook, Linked-In, and other similar accounts.  For many it is the primary way they communicate with friends and family around the world.

For better or worse, people don’t sit down and watch the evening news with Walter Cronkite anymore.  Instead they get their news (and share it with others) over the Internet.  Personally, I don’t understand Twitter, but it apparently has played a role in social movements and international relief efforts in places like Iran and Indonesia.

Blogsoverbaghdad.com website in the spotlight.

This morning at about 8:15 a.m. in Baghdad, the Soldiers of the 314th PAOC that were on duty at the CPIC gathered to recognize those who lost their lives on September 11, 2001.  It was a moving ceremony, with a beautifully written message from LTC Perez, our unit commander. 

At the end, the commander asked us for a moment of silence, and to contemplate that eventful day.  Though I was assigned to the Pentagon on that day, I was not there.  Instead, I was on leave in Sweden.  At 8:46 a.m. New York time eight years ago, I was running around Stockholm enjoying the cool weather and sunshine, and then headed back to the youth hostel where I was staying in the downtown area. 

As I arrived, I remember seeing all the young people crying and watching TV.  They told me that the United States had been attacked, and they didn’t seem know what to do.  They were all in their early 20s.

I don’t remember a lot, but I do remember feeling so much older than them…and I was…38.  I felt responsible for helping them.  I told them not to worry, that this attack was isolated and was carried out by just a small group of people and that we would be okay.  I am not sure if I helped calm them, but I do remember telling them to call their parents and other loved ones back home to tell them they were fine here in Sweden.

I called people I knew back at work in DC, and told them I would get back as quickly as possible.  It took me almost two weeks. 

When I did get back, I knew it would never be the same.  I could see the people I knew had changed.  Maybe they didn’t notice it, since they were there and lived throught it, but I did.  It seemed that every time a plane flew by or a Metro train rumbled, there was a sense of foreboding. 

Eight years later, that change has not gone away.  The world I knew before seems to be gone forever.  Or, maybe that world was never really there at all.  Maybe that world existed only in my naivete.  I know we Americans sometimes look at the world in a different way that others.  We seems to insulate ourselves.

Well, I am no longer insulating myself.  I am here in Iraq, serving with some of the Army’s top Public Affairs Soldiers.  Most joined after that day eight years ago, knowing that they would be here….and for some this is their second or third deployment since then.

As I stood with them this morning, in my moment of silence, I thought about those young men and women in Stockholm.  And then I realized, maybe everything has not changed completely.  I think I will tell them to call their parents and loved ones and tell they are well…and not to worrry.

Soldiers of the 314th PAOC in formation listen to the words of LTC Ignacio Perez.

SSG Bryan Tull (left) and SFC Adam Daley raise the flag to half staff.

The Soldiers of the 314th render a salute to honor the flag and those who lost their lives in the attacks on September 11, 2001, and the men and women of the U.S. military who lost their lives since then protecting our Nation. (Photos by SPC Brittany Gardner)

Aloha!  I want to personally thank each of you who helped make this a reality —you should know what you did for my Soldiers and the people who attended the luau. 

We publicized the luau all over the place. I sure wish I was on that beach right now!

The attached pictures are just a sample of the craziness and “aloha spirit” the Soldiers in my 314th PAOC from Birmingham, Ala., created for folks from all over the world here in the International Zone on August 21.  More than 300 attended – and of those about 10-15 were from Hawaii and many more had either been stationed there or visited the islands. 

SPC Brittany Gardner circulated in the crowd distributing plastic, silk and shell leis to luau attendees.

The Soldiers in my unit are great.  I convinced the 314th Soldeirs to wear donated aloha shirts and circulate through the crowd and give everyone a warm welcome and lei.  They made everyone feel special — you can tell from all smiles in the pictures.  It might not have been an “authentic” luau (we could not put a pig in the ground in a Muslim country, for example) but I could definitely feel the spirit.  Besides, with no mai tais (General Order #1), we had to act a little silly to get everyone to “hang loose”.  Of course, we could not have done this without the support of my friends in Hawaii like Sherri Okinaga, Lorraine Nakaji and Mike Mau.  And then they told their friends and co-workers.  

SGT Mary Lee was our photo assistant. We took photos of all the participants with their leis at a small kiddie pool (the closest thing we could find to simulate Waimea Bay).

 For instance, Lorraine told David Gonsalves at Hilo Hattie, a store in Hilo that sells aloha clothing and other items that make you think about Hawaii.  Collectively they shipped us everything from aloha shirts, grass skirts and haupia to tiki god statues, calendars of the men and women of Hawaii (in bathing suits) and more than 750 leis of all sorts.  Now tell me, how could this not have been fun?  We even had a huge Hawaii state flag flying over here (I think even King Kamehameha would have been happy). 

Soldiers at the luau got to try local food favorites like roast pork, macaroni salad, sticky rice (with seaweed sprinkled on top), chicken long rice, and haupia.

After we finished our luau, we took part in a teleconference with Hawaii  Governor Linda Lingle, U.S. Pacific Command Admiral Timothy Keating, Maj. Gen. Robert Lee, and Secretary of Veterans Affairs Eric Shinseki.  One Soldier from Hawaii now in Kentucky for college, SPC Amy Balli, a 2006 graduate of Konawaena High School, joined us in sending our collective “aloha” to the thousands of people in the Hawaii Convention Center listening in on that conversation.  It was quite an evening for all of us!

SFCs Jeremiah Glassford and Adam Daley enjoyed the food...and their aloha woven hats.

 I know some people in Hawaii did not want the state to celebrate.  They see statehood as a negative thing.  From my point of view, however, all this outpouring of love, generosity and the aloha spirit showered on my Soldiers and those at the luau would not have happened without statehood. 

 People stuck around the luau for more than hour after we closed everything down, just basking in the “aloha spirit” and enjoying a break from the reality of Iraq with all the boredom interrupted by moments of violence, death and insanity.

 For that, I thank all of you.  And to those who made my 17 years in Hawaii some of the best in my life, mahalo nui loa! 

LTC Lee Reynolds (left), a former resident of Hawaii, gives the shaka sign with our luau emcee SFC Benari Poulten, a Soldier in the 314th PAOC (and a Broadway actor and comedian when he is home in Manhattan).

There was no beach, so no surfing competition, so we improvised -- we had a limbo contest. I don't know, but I think MAJ James Lincoln, the 314th Executive Officer, might do pretty well "hanging ten" at Banzai Pipeline.

After the experienced hula dancers at the luau showed how to do it right, we opened it up to others (prizes for everyone who got up to entertain us). Here is SGT EMily Anderson. I think she looks pretty authentic...and she was darn good with the dancing, too.

At the end of the night, the Soldiers of the 314th took a well-deserve break from cleaning up the luau. Shortly after this, we moved to our Combined Press Information Center for a telephone call to talk to the thousands of people assembled in the Hawaii Convention Center. (Photos by SSG Paul Roberts, 314th PAOC)

Fresh from her R&R leave, SPC(P) Roshonda Thurston walked into the press conference room at the Combined Press Information Center thinking it was a supply issue that needed her expertise.  Instead, she found a room full of her fellow 314th PAOC Soldiers ready to celebrate her promotion to SGT.

MAJ James Lincoln, Acting Commander (and CPIC Director), officiated the ceremony and reminded the group about the role she played, from being a last minute addition to the team to the supply sergeant responsbile for bringing all our Soldiers and equipment home to the United States (no pressure, huh?).

Congratulations SGT Thurston….job well done!

SGT Thurston is standing tall and ready to official become and NCO and MAJ Lincoln prepares to promote her.

After her new rank has been affixed, MAJ Lincoln congratulates SGT Thurston while her fellow Soldiers look on.

Finally it is time for the 314th Soldiers to share in the excitement -- and SSG Tull almost tackles SGT Thurston to show his joy. (All photos by SPC Brittany Gardner)

When BG Lanza returned to the room a few minutes later, LTC Ignacio Perez, the 314th PAOC Commander and CPIC Director, called the room to order, but BG Lanza instructed everyone to relax as he said a few things. 

What he said next is what every commander hopes to hear about his Soldiers.  BG Lanza spoke about the achievements of each of the five Soldiers in the front row — how they were indicative of the entire unit — which he called “high-performing.”  When he finished his comments, he told LTC Perez it was time to proceed.  With LTC Leela Dawson, former 314th PAOC Commander, at his side, each of the five Soldiers was called forward to receive their much-deserved promotion.

The follow pictures from the promotion ceremony were taken by SGT Kellena Leech, 314th PAOC.

Shortly before they entered the CPIC conference room, the five Soldiers posed for a picture with their current rank -- waiting for the promotion to the next higher one.

BG Stephen Lanza shares some comments with the Soldiers of the 314th PAOC shortly before the promotion ceremony.

While BG Lanza lists some of the achievements of each promotees, SFC Benari Poulten captures the moment on video (to be posted soon).

Before they begin to promote Soldiers, BG Lanza shakes hands with LTC Leela Dawson, former 314th PAOC Commander.

After CPT Joseph Thames was called forward, but before he was promoted, BG Lanza asked him to face the crowd and reminded him of the gravity of this step in his career as he became a field-grade officer.

BG Lanza removed the captain rank and replaced it with major.

Next to be promoted was SSG Paul Roberts, one of the newest arrivals into the units.

Newly-promoted SSG Roberts salutes BG Lanza before returning to the formation.

SSG Jeremy Fowler may not look like it on the outside, but he is very excited on the inside about his promotion (and that nice tax-free pay raise).

See, I told you he was happy!

SGT Bryan Tull got a "thump" for good luck as BG Lanza promoted him -- to make it stick.

SGT Tull and BG Lanza pose for the "grip and grin."

SGT Autumn Hope stands at attention while BG Lanza formally makes her an NCO.

BG Lanza shakes SGT Hope's hand while the remainder of the 314th PAOC look on.

BG Lanza asks everyone in the audience to join him in congratulating the Soldiers promoted today.

After the ceremony finished, it was time for some handshakes...

...and some hugs. Congratulations to all five of these fine "high-performing" Soldiers from the 314th PAOC.

The soldiers of the 314th Public Affairs Operations Center gathered in the Combined Press Information Center’s conference room on July 14 to witness an award ceremony for three of its own. 

Congratulations to SPC James Clifton, SPC Justin Wright and SGT Emily Anderson.

The three were presented Army Achievement Medals for actions in the past three months that made them stand out.   Each of them lives up to the unit’s motto:  maximum effort, minimum delay! 

SPC James Clifton is awarded for this actions supporting all four CPIC staff sections simultaneously during several weeks when other unit members were on R&R leave.

SPC Justin Wright receives an award for his actions in the Administrative, Biometrics and Credentialing (ABC) Section -- including on-the-spot repairs of the BATS equipment and stepping up when the section NCO was away.

SGT Emily Anderson receives an award from LTC Ignacio Perez for her work to support junior enlisted promotion boards at Victory Base Complex and the International Zone. (All photos by SGT Paul Roberts)

What a week!  In all my years in the Army Reserve, I have never seen anything like this.  Am I talking about the dust storms or the 130 degree heat?  NO!  I am talking about the SIX promotions in the 314th Public Affairs Operations Center in the past 48 hours.  Yep, you read that right.

The first five Soldiers were recommended for promotion during a junior enlisted board held here in the International Zone on July 7.  The enlisted Soldiers recommended were:

SGT(P) Jeremy Fowler
SGT(P) Paul Roberts
SGT(P) Bryan Tull
SPC(P) Autumn Hope
SPC(P) Roshonda Thurston

We are hoping to be able to announce their official promotion dates soon, but until then, they will have the (P) behind their current rank. 

As if that were not enough, we received word this afternoon that one of our officers, CPT Joseph Thames, was also selected for promotion — to the rank of major — so we will start using CPT(P) for him.

LTC Ignacio Perez, the 314th PAOC commander, said it best — there is nothing more exciting for a commander than to be able to promote a Soldier….so he has six times the excitement coming up in the next few weeks. 

If you know any of the six, join us in congratulating them and wishing them well as leaders in the next highest rank.  More details and pictures will follow when we have the promotion ceremony for each of these great Soldiers who continue to set the standard here in Iraq.

Oh, and in case you aren’t keeping track (because we are), that makes 16 out of 30 Soldiers in the 314th PAOC that have been promoted since we mobilized back in Birmingham, Alabama, late last year, and 18 out of 30 in the past 12 months.

If Uncle Sam were a Vegas lounge singer...

What do you get here in the 314th Public Affairs Operations Center when you ask a group of Public Affairs Soldiers to decorate the office for the Fourth of July?  See above.

After 5 (or is it 8?) days of non-stop dust storms, the lack of supervision by 1SG Glassford (stuck in Kuwait because of aforementioned dust), a lot of creativity, a good sense of humor, and a little irreverance……here is SGT Jeremy Fowler wishing all of you a Happy Fourth of July!

Photo by SPC Brittany Gardner.

I think both PFC Bernat (l) and LTC Perez are enjoying this moment.

One of the best things about being the commander of a military unit is being able to recognize Soldiers for their achievements.  My boss, LTC Ignacio Perez, would definitely agree.  He relishes the moments when he can bring a smile to a Soldier’s face by presenting them with an award.  Today, he was able to do that for our most junior Soldier.

For those of you who follow our blog, you likely will recognize PFC Christine Bernat.  She is a “renaissance woman” — able to draw wonderful anime art, solve complex computer problems as our assistant Information Management Officer, create rich multi-layered graphics with Photoshop, put together musical presentations with her photographs, and shoot the heck out of anything with a variety of weapons.  Now you can add one more skill — poetry.

Last week you were able to read one of her poems on this blog in an entry titled, “How I Cope”.  If you have not read it yet, I encourage you to take a couple minutes and learn more about the challenges we all face – and how she insightfully describes it through her words and emotions.   The poem was recently sent to various military publications with words of encouragement — so look for it elsewhere in the near future.

Today, LTC Perez added his own stamp of approval by presenting PFC Bernat with a Certificate of Achievement as part of the 314th Public Affairs Excellence Program.  Her poem took 1st place in the “Special Products” category. 

Besides the kudos from the commander, and the smile on her face (as evidenced in the picture), PFC Bernat also earns 5 points in future promotion boards.

If you want to see more of PFC Bernat’s work, check out her previous blog entries.

Soldiers from the Army Reserve's 314th Public Affairs Operations Center raise the flag over the Combined Press Information Center in Baghdad, Iraq.

Of course, the Fourth of July is in our hearts and minds on this special day, but in so many other ways, this is just another day when Soldiers are on duty and working to defend America’s national interests.

Do we have anything special planned?  Thankfully, our Army Reserve Family Readiness Group back in Birmingham, Alabama, sent us decorations for our unit area.  By tomorrow morning — July 4th — our overnight crew will have hung streamers and put miniature U.S. flags and red, white and blue candies at our work areas.  It will likely only remind us that it is another holiday when we are away from our loved ones.

My “independence day” is still a few months away — so instead today I reflect on those NCOs who came before us.  Whether it was our fight to be an independent nation, our struggle to hold that nation together, or our promises to protect our nation or our allies, those Soldiers of yesteryear gave all Americans a gift that billions around the world long to enjoy.

Today’s Soldiers have given that gift to Iraqis.  I hope they realize the ultimate sacrifice that so many of our nation’s sons and daughters have made over the past six years to secure their freedoms and confirm their independence.  However, June 30, 2009, is now in the past; they can no longer be spectators to their freedom.  

I have spoken to many Iraqis who wonder (and sometimes fear) what will happen when we are gone in the very near future.  I think Jerry Kammer, a Pulitzer Prize-winning investigative journalist who recently visited the Combined Press Information Center in Baghdad, addressed those concerns best.  He told a group of Iraqi journalists they cannot think only about themselves as they work to protect their freedoms in the face of possible danger.  Instead, he said, they must think about the world they want to leave their children, and let that guide their actions.

That sounds like good advice for everyone.

I suppose most people in the United States who follow news from Iraq know that June 30 is a big event here.  It is for Iraqis — they have declared it a national holiday. 

CPT Joe Thames is just one of the 314th PAOC Soldiers in Iraq. Here, he takes a moment to relax outside the CPIC before returning to his duty as the OIC for the Iraqi Media Engagement Team.

On Tuesday of next week, according to the security agreement signed between the U.S. and Iraqi governments, U.S. combat forces will withdraw to Forward Operating Bases outside the cities nationwide.   This will enable the Iraqi Security Forces (ISF) to provide security and stability for Iraqi people.

We also have been handing over facilities and bases throughout the country to ISF.   Many of the ones where we remain are now joint bases with the Iraqis commanding there. 

Finally, any counter-terrorism or security operations conducted by U.S. Forces will be done in conjuction with ISF or at the explicit request of the Government of Iraq.  

I don’t think most Iraqis are necessarily happy that our combat forces are leaving the cities – because  most of the ones I meet seem to like Americans, whether it is us personally or the opportunities we bring to exercise their freedoms or make a better living.  Rather, I think they are happy because this is a first step on the path to normalcy by their own nation accepting responsibility for a big part of their national security after six years of war and military occupation.

Added all up, it means that in many key areas the Iraqis are in charge starting on Wednesday.   It is a sign that the U.S. presence here is drawing to an end.  No, it won’t happen overnight, but it is happening (and ending by January 1, 2012, unless something unexpected happens as a result of the January 2010 elections here).

There has been some news that the celebration on Tuesday may be tempered by an increase in violence.  Only time will tell about this.  There has been an “uptick”, as military leaders say, in the bombings here in Iraq, including Baghdad.  Recent news over the past two weeks has included bombings at markets in different parts of the city — areas that are far from the 314th.  But, what does all this change and news mean for you, the loved one of a 314th Soldier (or just a curious blog reader)?

According to Geoff Morrell, a Pentagon spokesperson, such a spike in violence is to be expected, “based upon the pattern of behavior that we’ve seen over the past few weeks, and, frankly, historically in Iraq, leading up to seminal dates, whether it be elections or other significant dates, of an uptick in the operational tempo of terrorists and insurgents.”

Most likely the uptick will subside soon after June 30, like it has after other key events, like the national elections earlier this year.

With that in mind, the 314th has redoubled its communication to Soldiers to stay focused on their surroundings.  The risk to our Soldiers compared many others is greatly decreased since they live and work most of their days here within the walls of Forward Operating Base Prosperity.  Additionally, when they do leave the FOB they travel in areas that have historically been considered safe and under U.S. control (and that is expected to continue past June 30).

Throughout this deployment, LTC Ignacio Perez, the unit commander, has also implemented security measures to protect all Soldiers.  Some are just good practices no matter where someone is — like always traveling with a “battle buddy.”

The bottom line is that 314th PAOC Soldiers, now and after June 30, are safe, and they are all looking forward to returning home to all of you in just a few more months, knowing that they have played a role in bringing peace, freedom and stability over here.

From SPC Roshonda Y. Thurston

Today I am serving my seventh month of a one-year deployment in Iraq.  I am the supply specialist in the 314th Public Affairs Operations Center, an Army Reserve unit from Birmingham, Alabama.  I was cross-leveled into the unit last year a few months before we mobilized, but this story goes back even further…six years ago when I was a 19-year-old Soldier.

I grew up in St. Lucie County in Florida as a troublemaker, but I had the sense to join the Army after high school, thanks to the encouragement of SGM John Brunson, a friend of my mother.  When I was growing up, he was like a father, and I admired his military service.  He told me about the Army – he got to travel, he had a job he was proud of, and the pay wasn’t bad either.   My life was going nowhere fast, so I joined.

I went to basic training at Fort Jackson, South Carolina in January 2004, supply training at Fort Lee, Virginia three months later, and my first duty assignment at Fort Drum, New York, that summer.  It was not long, however, before trouble found me again.  I was pregnant.

I was discharged from the Army and returned home to Florida.  I had told myself that I did not want to end up like this, but there I was – 21 years old, about to become a mother, and without much of a future.  One thing that got me through all of this was something I tell to others in similar situations, “It could be worse.”

On April 13, 2005, I gave birth to my son, Xavion Lamar Thurston at Lawnwood Regional Medical Center.  He was 6 pounds and 7.5 ounces of change in my life.   I know it sounds like a cliché, but he made me rethink everything I was doing (or not doing).  Knowing he was there, depending on me, made me calm down and gave me a focus.  He truly became the center of my life.  It was like I had found another part of me.

If you are a young girl who has trouble in her life now, don’t think a baby is going to turn your life around.  Someone I am close to back home is in jail today while her two kids are living with someone else.  They only get to see their mom on visiting days.  I guess I was lucky.

Even though I was starting to change my life, it was not easy, and I could never have done it alone.  My mom Sharri and my younger brother Courtney were my “built-in babysitters” back then (and are now while I am deployed).  Their support allowed me to get a job as a technician at a mental health institution in St. Lucie County.  Getting to help the patients made me thankful that I had my right mind and that I had chosen a right path before it was too late.  I saw some who were strung out on cocaine with one foot in the grave — and some were kids my own age.  Even though it was sad, I got satisfaction knowing there was something I could do to help them.

Another thing I did to turn my life around was join the Army Reserve in early 2006.  The 3220th Garrison Support Unit from West Palm Beach had a vacancy for a supply specialist, and I wanted to give the military another try.  I had to start out as a private all over again, but I dealt with that setback.  

Over the next two years I found more than a military unit; I also found a new family that looked out for my best interests and helped me make a better life for me and my son.    SSG Lorette Innocent and SGT Renea Thomas are both in my unit, and both work in law enforcement in their full-time civilian jobs.  They have helped me learn valuable lessons like controlling my emotions and taking one day at time.

Another Soldier who helped me get where I am today – literally – is LTC Gloria Thomas, from the regional command in Birmingham.   About a year ago, she called me with an offer I could not refuse.  I like to tell people I was “volun-told” I was on a list of people who could be going to Iraq with the 314th.  She said the deployment would be good for me, and that the Soldiers in the unit were good people.  With a young son, I was not excited about it, but I told her, “If I have to go, I will.”

I guess that must have stuck in her head because I got a call that same evening from 1SG Jeremiah Glassford welcoming me to the 314th and giving me my flight information to get to Birmingham.

So here I am now in the 314th PAOC, serving as the unit’s supply specialist.  Over the past 10 months with them (seven of them mobilized) I feel I have continued to grow.  I’ve had the help of unit members like 1SG Glassford and SGT Emily Anderson, as well as people I have met here in Baghdad like SCPO Theodore Traylor and Mr. Brandon Joseph.  With their support, I’ve continued my journey to being a better Solder, a better friend and a better mom.   Today, I am less impatient than I was even a year ago, I don’t let my pride get in my way and, most importantly, I am able help others.  Along the way, the unit commander even presented me an Army Achievement Medal for my hard work in preparing the unit for its overseas mission.

Someone asked me recently what I would say to the 19-year-old Roshonda Thurston if she were here today in Iraq.  I had to stop and think about it.  The one thing I would not do is ignore her.  That happened to me too many times, and I know how she would feel – as if she did not matter and depressed.

I know I have it in me now to help this troublemaker.  I think I would let her know she could trust me to help her, that I was always available, and that I would be non-judgmental.   I’d tell her to avoid peer pressure, and keep her eyes focused on what is most important.   I’d probably also tell her to keep working hard in the Army Reserve because it could be an opportunity for her to gain more confidence and self-discipline, and have more doors opened for her.

And, where will I be five years from now?  I will be the confident and financially-stable mother of a wonderful 9-year-old son who will know his mother loves him, even when she is thousands of miles away on her next deployment.

Here I am at Fort Dix, New Jersey, just before the 314th PAOC left for Baghdad. Don't mess with me!

Here is my Xavion.

When I first heard I was selected to attend the Sergeants Major Academy (I was a master sergeant at the time) back in early 2006, I was excited and a little trepidacious.  Was I up to the challenge…and what would people expect of me once I had graduated?  My friends and colleagues in the Army Reserve told me not to worry, and that it would be a great experience. 

(L to R) SGM Patrick McEver, CSM Paul Belanger and SGM Troy Falardeau pose in front of the U.S. and Iraqi national flags in the conference room at the Combined Press Information Center (Photo by SGT Ferdinand Thomas, 222nd BOD).

When I asked the few sergeants major I knew they jokingly told me “the Army did all it could to cram six weeks of training into a 10-month course.”   However, they were quick to add that the coursework was not the most important part of the experience.  No, they would say, the most important part is getting to know sergeants major from the active duty, National Guard and Army Reserve (and other countries I discovered once I got there) who will be serving in positions throughout the world once they graduate.   This was the biggest benefit of being there — the connections that I would make and the military fraternity I would be joining.

Of course, being the over-achiever that I am, I threw myself into the coursework and other academic-related programs.  I tried to learn as much as possible, but despite my best efforts to do otherwise, I started to make friends with my fellow students and develop those bonds.  I began to realize that in the Army, like in all areas of life, talent and ambition will only get you so far.  It truly is who you know and how to leverage that friendship to bring about success. 

I have been thinking about this off and on during this deployment, but it really hit home last week when we had a visit from MG Eldon Regua, the commander of the Army Reserve’s 75th Battle Command Training Division, and CSM Paul Belanger, his command’s top enlisted Soldier.  During the visit CSM Belanger, SGM Patrick McEver and I had the chance to take a group photograph. 

When I was looking at the photo last night, I began to think back to other times during this deployment I have called back to the U.S. Army Reserve Command in Atlanta to ask one of my fellow sergeants major to point me in the right direction with a problem.  I knew I could not solve it myself.  More than once they gave me a piece of information that made a huge difference in the life of  a 314th PAOC Soldier…and that helped me to maintain my status as a trusted leader of our Soldiers. 

But, the longer I am here in Iraq the more I am realizing that this acknowledgement of the tantamount importance of “the team approach” is the key to success in the Army (and to some lesser degree in all organizations).  I am sure many social science researchers have studied the dynamics of military units, and I probably even read some of this during my NCO professional development courses over the years.  However, until you see it firsthand, until you are the direct beneficiary of this comradeship (or worse, the recipient of a lesson in working against this norm), it doesn’t really hit home. 

I don’t want any of you to think I was totally clueless of this fact all these 28 years in the Army Reserve.  I always knew I had to “play well with others” to ensure a team victory, and I have always known my first and foremost job is to take care of the Soldiers who serve with me; that is the role of a leader.  However, I am the first to acknowledge that I am somewhat of an outsider within this organization.  I may have the outward appearance of being gregarious, but inside I am a loner in many social settings.   That trait has probably caused me to miss out on opportunities to help my Soldiers in the past since you can only change human nature so much.

Of all my personal discoveries about teamwork here in Iraq, however, the one that I hope I never forget (and the one I hope you take away from this blog entry) is that no leader can succeed without the support of his or her subordinates (I am hesitant to use that word, in light of this lesson).   No matter how good an idea from a leader — even when it is done with the best of intentions to help Soldiers — the true test of its chances of success is how much groundswell of support that leader inspires in others.  And, the best way to ensure that support is to make sure any “good ideas” have been developed with a team approach.

Yes, it is always possible for a leader to impose his or her will on others, especially in the military, but perhaps GEN Shinseki would have garnered more support for his policy change requiring berets if he had turned this good idea into a team effort, rather than what seemed to be a personal goal.  Any leader who accepts this approach must acknowledge up front that the team approach could lead to any idea being rejected or changed. 

With that in mind, I have tried to slow down the flow of “good ideas” I throw out for implementation, and instead talk to section NCOICs and other key individuals in the 314th PAOC.  In the end, I know the unit will be more successful with this team approach, rather than my over-achieving “get it done quickly and move on to the next thing” approach.  And, the team approach usually results in improvements on the original idea — and isn’t that the ultimate goal?

Perhaps there is still time to teach this old dog a few new tricks before I retire and join the ranks of old sergeants major.

There is probably no rank in the Army worse than second lieutenant.  When an enlisted Soldier is a private, he or she has no responsibility and leaders have little or no expectations.  Just show up and stay out of trouble, and you have earned a promotion. 

Not so for second lieutenants.  As an officer, albiet the lowliest of all officers, they are expected by enlisted Soldiers and other officers, to be a leader.  They carry on their chest a rank insignia with a solitary gold rectangle — the infamous “butter bar.”  Commanders and NCOs know their responsibility to second lieutenants is to mentor them, and keep them out of trouble while they develop their leadership skills.   It’s a lot of pressure for a young officer — probably akin to treading water while studying for final exams.

The happiest day for a second lieutenant is probably not the first day they pin on their rank and initially join the ranks of officers.  Instead, it is alm0st assuredly the last day at that rank — the day they complete this rite of passage and are promoted to first lieutenant, hopefully never to return that rank. 

1LT Joseph Larrew shares a proud moment with two of his Peruvian friends at FOB Prosperity.

For 2LT Joseph Larrew that day was today. 

1LT Larrew has a leg-up on many of his fellow first lieutenants because he served five years as an enlisted Soldier, rising to the rank of specialist.  Ask any NCO and they will tell you that an officer with enlisted experience is an officer who knows why NCOs are the backbone of the Army.

On December 17, 2007, SPC Larrew graduated from Austin Peay University in Clarksville, TN, with his degree in Computer Science.  He left behind his former rank, but not his knowledge of the pride and potential of enlisted Soldiers.  Today, standing in the audience were NCOs who previously stood in formation with him when he work the rank of an enlisted Soldier.

Shortly after lunch, the combined staffs of the 314th Public Affairs Operations Center and the 222nd Broadcast Operatons Detatchment (and even a few Triple Canopy guards) gathered in the CPIC. At slightly after 2 p.m. (Baghdad time) on June 19, 2009, the audience witnessed the reading of the promotion orders as LTC Ignacio Perez removed the infamous butter bar from the lieutenant’s uniform and replaced it with a new one with the black rectangle of a first lieutenant.  The crowd erupted into a cheer as it became official.

As they exited the room, each person shook 1LT Larrew’s hand, some joked about his new rank and the added responsibility, but all shared the excitement, pride and relief that he felt.

Yes folks, the voting is over and the ballots have been counted, but Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei HAS NOT named our winner.  No, you — our faithful blog readers — have decided who won the 314th PAOC’s Mustache May competition. 

BEST LOOKING

If you voted for Contestant A, you chose SGT Bryan Tull.

The winner of the Best Looking mustache category was SGT Bryan Tull.  This is his second time visiting Iraq, so perhaps he knows about some special techniques for facial hair (or maybe he had a team of voters stuffing the ballot box).  Either way, he was the hands-down winner in that category, far ahead of SPC James Clifton, the second place contender.

SGT Tull has lived in Iraq more than the United States over the past 3 years.  He deployed here in 2006-2007 with the 210th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment of Garner, NC.  During that deployment, he said he got to see a lot more of the country.  During this tour of duty he has been stuck behind a desk much of the time since he serves as the NCOIC for the Escort Section of the Combined Press Information Center (oh the inhumanity of entering middle management!).

SGT Tull leads by example. The day after a big duststorm, he cleans the very dirty windows at the Combined Press Information Center.

According to SGT Tull, his girlfriend is happy he won the best-looking category, but is even happier that he has shaved if off.  Laura is a recent psychology graduate at the University of Alabama-Birmingham, and SGT Tull is a junior there in History and Education (hopefully he will not be volunteering to deploy again before he can finish his bachelor’s degree).

In addition to the votes from Laura and her friends at UAB, SGT Tull also got the support of his parents.  His father Del is the leader of the 314th PAOC Family Readiness Group, a volunteer position that maintains communication with the friends and family members of the 314th PAOC’s deployed Soldiers.  According to SGT Tull, his mom Carole spends lots of time helping out.

 FUNNIEST LOOKING AND SHAVE THAT THING OFF

If you voted for Contestant D, you were voting for MAJ James Lincoln. Since he won both the Funniest-Looking and Shave That Thing Off categories, we can assume that our voters had no sense of humor for his mustache.

In a suprise double win, MAJ James Lincoln, the Executive Officer for the 314th PAOC, won both the Funniest-Looking and Shave That Thing Off categories — leaving all others “in the dust” (pardon the Iraqi pun).

He said he was happy to win both categories because it meant he would win two prizes — twice as many as the best-looking mustache winner (hmmmm, sounds like rationalization to me).  The winner of each category wins a coffee mug from the American Mustache Institute, and we all know MAJ Lincoln is a two-fisted drinker (of coffee).

MAJ Lincoln seemed to have drawn votes from many different demographic groups — Democrats, Republicans, Independents, and even members of the American Mustache Institute — making him the “Barack Obama of the Mustache World”.   Most importantly, he got the vote of his wife Brenda, who is very happy that her husband is now ’sans mustache.”  All these people united to say, “Thanks for the laugh, now lose it!”

MAJ James Lincoln may be without his mustache now, but he still has the hairy attitude!

The 314th PAOC would like to thank everyone around the world who took time to send in a vote this Mustache May contest — including members of the American Mustache Institute (especially you Miss Mustache, columnist from the AMI website), judges from the 2009 Beard and Moustache World Championships (held this year in Alaska), and supporters of our troops who serve our country!

Recently award-winning country music star Toby Keith spoke at the National Press Club in Washington, DC.  At the end of his speech, he made a “shout out” to the Soldiers of the 314th Public Affairs Operations Center.

In case you don’t know what a “shout out” is, here is how it is described on Wikipedia:  a greeting or acknowledgment of a person, group, or organization of significance. It is often done as a sign of respect, synonymous with “giving props”. 

Mr. Keith (or does he prefer to be called Toby?) has a long history of patriotism and giving props to the military and the United States, evidenced by his recording, “Courtesy of the Red, White and Blue.”   He takes time at concerts to honor members of the military (and speeches at the National Press Club).

Although he said in a 2007 interview that he was not a supporter of the Iraq War, he went on to say he has always been and will continue to support U.S. troops.  He also said, “I don’t apologize for being patriotic… If there is something socially incorrect about being patriotic and supporting your troops, then they can kiss my #&% on that, because I’m not going to budge on that at all.”

Click here for the shout out.

On behalf of the Soldiers of the 314th PAOC, thank you Mr. Keith for the shout out — and for standing firm on your support for us and the things we defend!

The 314th Public Affairs Operations Center commemorated the Army Birthday at FOB Prosperity.  SGTs Bryan Tull, Paul Roberts and Brad Richardson raised the stars and stripes above the Combined Press Information Center.

(L to R) SGTs Bryan Tull, Paul Roberts and Brad Richardson report for a special mission -- flag detail on the Army's 234rd Birthday.

SGTs Roberts and Richardson fix the flag to the lanyard.

SGT Richardson begins raising the flag.

As the flag ascends the pole, SGT Roberts secures it.

When the flag has reached the top of the pole, SGT Richardson secures the rope.

SGTs Tull, Roberts and Richardson salute the flag.

For more information about the Army Birthday, go to http://www.army.mil/birthday/.

Comedian Stephen Colbert gets a complimentary haircut from Gen. Ray Odierno during the opening night USO tour in Baghdad. Photo by Steve Manuel, Associated Press.

A couple days ago the comedian Stephen Colbert performed at Al Faw Palace here in Baghdad.  He came over here as part of a USO-sponsored event to entertain the troops (I was lucky enough to see part of his first show on Sunday night).  One of his jokes was about a young Soldier here in Iraq who spent his spare time taking online college classes.  Apparently the Soldier just got his degree, and Colbert got big laughs when he mentioned that the Soldier was one of the few 2009 college graduates with a job.  I guess most 2009 graduates back home are not doing as well.

Colbert’s remark was very well received by the audience, but for those of us over here in Iraq, it is reality.  Many of us follow the stock reports, government unemployment statistics and news of our struggling U.S. economy.  I know my home has lost about 30-40 percent of its value over the past two years, so having a steady paycheck puts us ahead of more than 10 percent of our U.S. population who are unemployed.  We wish the best to all those who are struggling, but we are also very glad that we are here, able to pay our bills and care for our loved ones who are holding down the homefront. 

The military is not normally seen as a path to riches (well, unless you owned shares in some of the contracting companies), but it is a steady job with great benefits.  I’ve always felt it is one of America’s best kept secrets.  For decades, service in the U.S. military has been a path for many to enter the middle class and obtain “the American Dream.”

Where else can a person get free medical coverage for himself (or herself) and all family members?  I read every day about the battle in Congress amd elsewhere for universal health coverage for Americans.  My coverage may not be perfect, but what is in bureaucracy?  And my coverage continues after retirement (when my poor body begins to fall apart). 

Before we forget what started this conversation, what about the G.I. Bill money that paid for that Soldier’s college classes?  I know I used military education benefits to help pay for my bachelor’s and master’s degrees, and even part of my doctoral studies.  As an Army Reserve Soldier, I know that all that education has helped keep me competitive when looking for civilian jobs over the years.

You might be looking for a place to put your money to beat inflation, but the military has me covered there, too.  The Savings Deposit Program gives me a 10% annual return on investment (on up to $10,000) for the time I am here in Iraq.  The last time I checked my savings back home, I was getting about 1%.  Oh, and if that is not good enough, all my pay here is tax-free.

Ok, so there is a downside.  There are people here who want to kill us, but last time I checked the news people back home were doing the same.   Our Soldiers are also far away from their loved ones, but they do get to converse on the phone and through email — and their families know they are working hard to secure not only freedoms for Iraqis, but the financial future of their loved ones.

I know this sounds like I am trying to convince you to join the military, but the truth is I don’t have to – the recruiting numbers are through the roof right now.  In fact, I’ve heard that our recruiting and retention bonuses might be reduced or removed if the trend continues. Young (and not so young) people across the country are seeing that being in the military is not a joke….and I am sure Colbert realizes this.