Posted on 07/28/2005 5:59:41 PM PDT by SandRat
Soldiers look at deployment in many different ways. Some see it as a way of furthering their careers and some see it as a steppingstone to financial security. However, one soldier sees it as an opportunity to make a difference and he plans to make that difference as long as the Army will let him. Spc. Jonathan Laureles, a combat medic with the 29th Support Battalion, 29th Support Brigade, recently began his second consecutive tour in Iraq and already extended for a third, which will begin February 2006.
Laureles works as a medic at the North Exit Control Point. He treats U.S. soldiers for illness and injuries as well as Iraqi National Guard soldiers by conducting a sick call and by making daily checks around the area to ensure all the soldiers are feeling up to par.
Although Laureles spent more than a year in theater with well over a year to go, he has his own reasons for volunteering to stay tour after tour.
“I know it sounds crazy, but I just really like it here,” said Laureles. “I really love doing my job.” The medical field was something Laureles had always wanted to do and the Army gave him the opportunity and training to go out and make a difference.
Being that Laureles has been in theater for more than a year, his command seems to appreciate his experience and knowledge of the standard operating procedures of the North Exit Control Point.
“Laureles is a tremendous asset to us. Outside of what he knows about the medical side of the house, he also knows a lot about how the North ECP is run,” said Staff Sgt. Paul-Michael Hayes, 29th Support Battalion.
“He also knows a lot of the faces of people who have been kicked off the post before, so he can recognize them and let us know about it.”
Although some people might question Laureles’ motives for continuing to extend his tour in Iraq, he assures everyone that he is just here to help and make a difference.
“People often say that I must be doing it for the money or that I don’t have a family back home that loves me, and that’s not true,” said Laureles. “Of course my family misses me, but they are also very supportive and understand that I am making a difference over here.”
Laureles has extended to do three consecutive years in Iraq. However, he has already spoken with his leadership to see if he can continue extending until his expiration of term of service in 2009.
Extreme Patriot PING!!!!!!!
good for him!
Salute Spc Laurels.
A hero proved in liberating strife. God bless him.
If your misspelling was unintentional it is still appropriate. He deserves laurels and much more.
BTTT!!!!!
Bravo!!
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