Warriors in Peace Operations - Strategic Studies Institute - U.S. Army

leachers and soldiers charged them in a crush for a long
overdue reunion. There was not a dry eye in the place, to
include mine. I presided over eight such ceremonies, and
each one was equally moving. The dedication of the rear
detachments and families in providing a fitting tribute to
their returning heroes was not lost on those standing in
formation on the gym floor. And it was worth the effort
because those soldiers had earned that recognition and
more.
After every last soldier had returned safely (the brigade
did not have any serious casualties), I had a moment to
reflect back on that tumultuous year. What struck me most
was the tremendous attitude and spirit all members of the
rear detachments had. To a man (or woman), every one of
them had wanted to go with their unit instead of being
relegated to the rear. Out-manned, out-gunned, and
under-appreciated, they could have tossed in the towel on
numerous occasions, but they never did. Just as important,
everything they did was done well, a demonstration of their
great pride. And if someone needed help, they rolled up their
sleeves and jumped in. It was truly amazing. For me, if I had
to do it all again, I would take that team any day. After all,
they made my job easy. And if you do not believe me, ask the
Department of the Army Inspector General (DAIG). The
crowning moment for the team was Lieutenant General
Bates’ visit to the brigade. V Corps had picked us for the
visit because the brigade had figured out how to do it right.
The DAIG was indeed impressed and took copies of the
SOPs and checklists that the detachments had created to
show other commands. Enough said.
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