The Herald Bulletin was given a rare opportunity to interview a deployed soldier via e-mail.
What Marine unit are you attached with?
I am a lieutenant in the Navy’s Medical Service Corps, and am currently with the U.S. Navy’s Medical Task Force, Medical Expeditionary Facility Kuwait. I am the Medical Regulating Officer and responsible for the coordination and movement of patients throughout Kuwait and southern Iraq, from the point of injury to our Level III Military Hospital. My home station is the Naval Hospital, Camp Pendleton, California.
What is the biggest challenge about being away from your family on holidays like Mother’s Day?
The biggest challenge during holidays away from home is knowing about the little things that are being missed, i.e. the smiles, the laughs, the family dinners and just the feeling of home. I’ve been stationed in San Diego since 2004, so being able to visit during the holidays has always helped. It’s a little challenging when you’re literally halfway around the world, but a simple phone call and the sound of a familiar voice makes a world of difference!
How important is regular correspondence with family in keeping up morale?
Regular correspondence with family and friends is vital to morale. Mail call is always a highlight of the day, and so is checking e-mail to see if you’ve got mail. Phone calls are the best, especially when it’s been a challenging day.
Have you encountered any close calls while serving in the Navy?
I have been fortunate to have not experienced any close calls while serving in the Navy.
What are your feelings about the war, and have they changed since you enlisted?
I grew up as an Army brat and have always had a desire to serve our country. Sept. 11, 2001, was the deciding factor — that and the fact that my youngest brother was deployed with the Air Force shortly thereafter.
The United States is doing some great things around the world to win the War on Terror; unfortunately, the media focuses mostly on the negative aspects and not the positives. I had the opportunity to deploy on the hospital ship USNS Mercy in 2006 for a five-month humanitarian mission to Southeast Asia and Indonesia. We completed over 1,100 surgeries and provided health care to over 60,000 people who would not have received health care had the United States not provided it. I will obey the orders that I am given, knowing we are doing the right thing. Winning the hearts and minds of individuals around the world is one way we are fighting and winning this battle. I just wish it would be highlighted more in the press.
What would you like civilians to know about serving in the military during wartime?
When one joins the military, he/she takes an oath to uphold the Constitution of the United States and defend it against enemies both foreign and domestic. We take this obligation freely and without mental reservation. In short, we know what we are signing up for, and to me, it’s an honor to wear the cloth of our nation and follow those who have gone before me.
What would you say to the mothers here in the U.S. who won’t see their sons and daughters this Mother’s Day due to deployment?
I would look every mother in the eye and say, “You have raised a man/woman you can be proud of! I want you to know that your sons/daughters are not alone. They are with other sons/daughters serving our country and are out here doing amazing things! We miss you, but want you to know that wherever we are, you are always in our hearts.”
Finally, what makes your mother special?
My mom is my best friend and my guiding light. She has always taught me right from wrong but let me make my own choices. She let me experience things for myself and was always there to comfort me when life threw a curve ball. She has always put her boys first and is the reason I have become the man I am today! I would be happy to be half the parent she is, and want her to know that no matter how far away I am, she will always be home.
I love you, Mom, and thank you for always being there!
Your Loving Son, Josh
Home News (ADS ONLY)
May 10, 2008
MOTHER'S DAY: In his own words
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Photo gallery: AU vs Mount Saint Joseph Baseball
Photos from the baseball double header and senior night for Anderson University and Mount Saint Joseph on 5/7/10.
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Comedian Harland Williams coming to Paramount
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Nancy Wood back in Anderson, with ASO
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Auction deal for buyers, not for owners
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Ann Duran on the air in Madison County
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Weights, measures officials protect consumers
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AHS rocking to 'Schoolhouse Rock Live!'
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Anderson native to lead county ghost tour
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Sidewalk Prophets looking for a Dove
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Now, they’d like fans to reciprocate to help the band win a Dove Award. -
At Home: Project a bonding experience
PENDLETON — When a four-year project goes on for seven years, the result is often a strained marriage.
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