I had just reported to Fort McClellan, Alabama to attend the Military Police Officer's Basic Course (OBC) and was thrilled to begin my Army career as a young second lieutenant. I was no different than any other fresh second lieutenant, young and searching for my comfort zone.
While serving as an Infantry Company Commander in Baghdad, my company conducted an air assault raid in support of another battalion. After landing, we were to clear a small part of a village and capture a mortar team and their equipment.
My unit was not unlike most others in the battalion. We worked hard when it was time to work, and we played hard when the time was offered. Our camaraderie was good, morale was stable, and we were getting back into the swing of everyday life back in garrison.