2 Stryker Brigade Soldiers Chat With KOMO 4 News
The Army gave KOMO 4 News a rare opportunity to talk 'live' with the two men from the Fort Lewis Stryker Brigade now on duty in Mosul.
The interview started 9 p.m. Thursday in Iraq, which was 10 a.m. Thursday in Seattle.
Sgt. First Class Craig Jeffrey normally runs a 45-man Stryker platoon with daily patrols through the streets of Mosul.
First Lt. John Fursman is second in command of a rifle company. This night, at KOMO TV's request, they are both sitting down for a satellite interview for a chance to talk with Stryker soldiers about their first eight months in country.
"I certainly don't live in constant fear," says 1LT Fursman, "though there is a constant threat."
The brigade has lost soldiers, and others have been wounded. "Most difficult time was watching two of our very good soldiers have to be Medivaced out on helicopter," adds Fursman.
The brigade lives with the dangers we hear of daily: mortar attacks, roadside bombs, and armed insurgents.
"You know, you could go days with nothing happening," says Sgt. Jeffrey, "and then all of a sudden you'll be driving around and an IED will go off or some other stuff will happen, so you can't, you've got to stay focused every time you go out."
Jeffrey and Fursman get by through focusing on the job. The best part they say? The kids.
"We have to actually be careful when we're driving around," adds Jeffrey, "because they sometimes try to get too close, they're all smiling and waving."
While we talked with Fursman and Jeffrey via satellite, their wives, both officers at Madigan Army Medical Center, were just beginning their day. And as usual, they were thinking of their husbands.
"I just kind of every day sit there and hope that the right things are going to happen for him that day," said 1LT Claire Fursman.
"I'm just trying to keep my spirits up my chin up," says 1LT Laura Jeffrey, "go day by day, and then when they come off the plane, then I'll be happy."
But the Brigade won't be home for 3 and a half months. So, their wives send messages here, and John and Jeff can see them online.
"I love you take care of yourself," is the message from LT Fursman.
"I love you honey," 1LT Jeffrey spoke directly into the camera, "and I'm very proud of you and I can't wait 'til you come home, stay safe."
Both men sent their love to their wives as well. And one final message for the rest of us: They want people at home to know that even though there are still daily attacks, they believe they are getting a lot done for the Iraqi people by rebuilding schools and restoring other basic services.
And they say the majority of Iraqis they come in contact with are grateful to have them there.
For More Information:
You can keep tabs on the Styrker Brigade at strykernews.com.