Civil affairs soldiers come home

Soldiers Magazine, July, 2004 by Deborah Robichaux

WHEN Soldiers from the 304th Civil Affairs Brigade redeployed from Operation Iraqi Freedom, coalition officials and Iraqis alike knew the Soldiers' shoes would be hard to fill.

Mobilized from Pennsylvania in February 2003, the brigade led and supported missions in various places throughout the world. While the majority of its activities were centered in Iraq and Kuwait to support the 82nd Airborne Division and 1st Marine Div., detachments traveled to Germany, Jordan, Qatar and Turkey.

"You have all accomplished tremendous things," said brigade commander COL William Beard during an awards ceremony. "As individuals and as a unit you have been out there getting things done."

THe brigade's 2nd Battalion performed more than 500 missions in support of the 800th Military Police Brigade, helping to reorganize government and services in war-torn regions of Iraq. Soldiers performed humanitarian aid, assisted in the reformation of town councils and public services, and mentored, equipped and trained Iraqi police forces.

Beard said that hardships endured by unit members during the past year have made every individual a seasoned Soldier, deserving of a proper homecoming.

"It's not how you start the race, it's how you finish," Beard said. "As seasoned Soldiers, unit members are a valuable asset, with skills and experiences that must be passed on through the training of younger Soldiers."

Though every Soldier played an integral part in the unit's overall success, some were recognized for their individual accomplishments. In all, one Purple Heart, 37 Bronze Starts for merit and 59 Army Commendation Medals were awarded.

Pride should be the common denominator of what all members of the 304th take home, said BG Jack C. Stultz, deputy commander of the 377th Theater Support Command. "I'd be willing to go to war with you anytime."

SFC Deborah Robichaux was assigned to the Combined Forces Land Component Command Public Affairs Office when this article was written.