| CAMP ADDER, An Nasiriyah, Iraq, Dec. 14, 2005 — Just beyond the crest of the bunkers and tent- streaked horizon in Nasiriyah, Iraq, is a mattress that, seemingly, has sprouted legs. A couple of quick blinks to ensure the sun is not playing tricks on the eyes and it becomes apparent that the mattress was simply clever cover for a soldier with a solid determination to be comfortable.
"The de-escalation in mission will prepare us for getting back home."
U.S. Army Spc. Thomas V. Patat |
One soldier's personal mission to overcome the residuals of five months of austere living has become the pursuit of a brigade. The Georgia Army National Guard 48th Brigade Combat Team energetically takes on "Operation: Getting comfy," digging in for new challenges.
The mission for the 8th Brigade Combat Team has changed. Convoy escorts and theatre security has become the primary focus, but with this comes a chance to schedule some time to relax between mission assignments.
U.S. Army Spc. Thomas V. Patat, an infantryman with Alpha Company, 2nd Battalion, 121st Infantry Regiment is certain that a good night's rest contributes to mission success.
The proud owner of the new mattress, Patat is all too familiar with 'roughing it.' He was responsible for the transport of the Iraqi Army National Guardsmen at the Iraqi Army Camp Lions Den, sharing a living space with them in the rustic and often mortared environment.
A roofer by trade, he is not extremely disappointed that the team has undertaken a new mission. He is confident that it will be safer for his fellow soldiers and recognizes the importance of escorting re-supply convoys.
"It is necessary to get supplies where they are needed most," Patat, a resident of Cochran, Ga., explained. "The de-escalation in mission will prepare us for getting back home."
Most soldiers find it much easier to lend a hand in the ongoing improvements at many of the base camps and radio control points so that future 'tenants' will find things more comfortable upon arrival.
"It's relaxing to me," U.S. Army Sgt. Michael A. Perez, a squad leader for 108th Armor Regiment's Mortar Platoon.
Perez and several soldiers based at Convoy Support Center Camp Scania have decided to put their civilian skill set to good use in improving the living conditions at the movement control point. Assisting KBR contracting staff with the building of C-huts, four-sided quick construct buildings that will temporarily replace the tent dwellings, Perez is responsible for varnishing the wood finish to minimize the drying effects of the sun and make it less permeable when the rainy seasons begin.
Each brushstroke is therapeutic for the electrician from Columbus, Ga. Perez gets a slight glaze in his eyes as he talks about where they have come from. "There are things you want to forget," he says. "It keeps your mind off things and helps you to unwind. Plus, I like the company." |
