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.

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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

Dear friends and families,

I want to thank all of you for your support of our Soldiers as they prepare to deploy. This past week we were validated “READY” by 1st Army to meet our wartime mission.  That means we met all training and logistical requirements in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.  Preparation for mobilization is a lengthy process requiring precise execution on a set timeline.  Our Soldiers have met every challenge along the way, and our departure is now imminent. I am proud of their professionalism as journalists and broadcasters, but especially as Soldiers. They are Warriors at heart, and each brings unique talents and expertise that make the 314th PAOC a versatile organization.   I could not be more proud of each of our Soldiers. Maximum Effort remains our commitment.

We have been granted the wonderful gift of furlough, and our Soldiers will be returning to spend a few days of rest with you. Welcome them home. I also ask that you keep in your hearts the memory of those service members who will not have the same opportunity with their loved ones.  As we celebrate the holiday season, I wish all of you a safe and relaxing Christmas and New Year. 

Sincerely,

LTC I. J. Perez,
Commanding