While doing laundry a few days ago, I struck up a conversation with a Specialist from the 34th BCT, also known as the "Red Bull Brigade." The 34th BCT is based in Minnesota, and following their ceremony on 16 March 2006, is now in the process of deploying to Iraq. As I was loading my laundry into the drier, I asked the Specialist a few questions. What he shared offered some valuable insight. His words are worth considering.

"How do you feel about your mission to Iraq?"

"Honestly, Sir, I'm scared shitless. We are deploying to one of the most active areas in Iraq; I've never been this scared."

"How long have you been here?"

"We've been here at Shelby for about six months. We've trained for this. Now we're just waiting to deploy."

"Are you training at this point?"

"Not much, if at all, Sir. We have time to ourselves. Some squads are doing things, but for the most part, our training is over. I guess they hope that what we learned will stay with us. I hope we have time in country to refresh our skills before things get hot."

These are the words of one soldier and are not a statement to the effectiveness of an entire Brigade's training. However, this soldier's words are a reminder to both leadership and family... that the focus needs to be on the mission and the training necessary to elevate a soldier to a place of full-time combat readiness. As we fall into routine, it is easy to lose sight of the inherent risks; each and every member of a deployment faces risks. Placing the objective first, even in times of calm, is more than mandatory, it must be a state of mind. By observation from the outside, personal time for the 34th BCT seems to have become the order of day.

What these soldiers are being asked to do is more than a job. It is a task that requires one to place their duty and obligations before themselves, and even their families. It is a mission that asks them to accept the possibility of death. The Army goes to great lengths to make many of the comforts of home available to each soldier. This is to their credit. However, it must be remembered that "comfort" is not part of the contract of war. The objective is to bring each and every member home safe. Leadership must remain vigilant, and families and friends must be understanding.

As Task Force Phoenix V continues its training in preparation for their deployment to Afghanistan, I hope that the words of the Specialist of the 34th BCT will be remembered as the weeks and months pass. Staying focussed on the mission, maintaining training, and avoiding the trap of routine is not just a necessity, it is what offers the greatest hope for a healthy return home.

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Copyright, Scott Kesterson 2006

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