Operations officer squeezes athletics into a busy work life

Translog: Journal of Military Transportation Management, Fall, 2004 by Saloumeh Amouhashem

Strategy is an important part of Capt. Bridget Smith's life--on the job and on the playing field. Smith serves as operations officer of the 599th Transportation Group, Wheeler Army Air Field, Hawaii. She also is an avid athlete who recently served as captain of the Women's U.S. Army Soccer Team. The team brought home the silver medallion in multi-service competition at Fort Eustis, Va., in May.

"Any Soldier who feels they can contribute to an All-Army sport should do so," said Smith. "It is a time when the Soldiers can take a break from all the turmoil in the world and have peace and unity."

Following the All-Army tournament, Smith led her team in competition with the All-Navy and All-Air Force Teams.

Because of her keen playing, Smith was selected to participate in the International Military Sports Council Soccer Championship tournament May 26-June 5, also at Fort Eustis. Smith, playing middle field and full back, competed against teams from Canada, Germany, and the Netherlands.

"The experience was a time in my life that I will never forget" said Smith. "Every country had so much pride sharing a common bond of being women in the military and playing soccer with the best of the best."

The American All-Armed Forces team took the bronze medal after a double overtime score of 0-0 against Team Netherlands.

"We had a disappointing showdown of penalty kicks," said Smith.

Athletics do not end here for Smith. Living in Hawaii gives Smith the opportunity to train year round by participating in triathlons and ocean swims. She also runs five-kilometer and 10-kilometer races, as well as the Honolulu Marathon.

Smith also finds time to play soccer every weekend and rip the waves when the surf is up.

"It was very similar to the Olympics, except that it was only a military championship," said Smith. "I would like to thank my command and teammates for this amazing experience that resulted in friendships and memories for a life time."

Smith's sports resume goes back to her youth. She played basketball at St. Mary's High School, in Annapolis, Md., and at Virginia Wesleyan College, in Norfolk, Va.

By Saloumeh Amouhashem, Intern SDDC Headquarters