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Soldier tells tales of service, pride

Feb-10-2007 » Filed Under: 3/2 SBCT

By ROB STROUD, Journal Gazette

CHARLESTON — Army Pvt. Israel Maldonado tries to keep in regular contact with his parents while serving in Iraq, but his reconnaissance work often leaves little time for calls home.

“They are always worried when I don’t call for a couple weeks at a time because we are busy,” said Maldonado, a 21-year-old Charleston resident.

To try to ease their worries, Maldonado tells his parents about the high level of experience and training possessed by his unit. He serves with the Fort Lewis, Wash.-based Alpha Troop 114th Cavalry 1st Platoon “Outlaws.”

“I am working with a really good group and we all know our jobs. We are always looking out for each other when we get out the gate,” Maldonado said.

The young soldier has been visiting his father, Juan, in Charleston while on leave from service in Iraq.

Maldonado said he joined the Army in 2005 because, “I wanted to say I did something for my country.” He plans to build a career in the Army.

“I love my job. I love what I do,” Maldonado said.

Maldonado said he loves working with his fellow soldiers and helping Iraqi citizens during their patrols, which can last from six to 14 hours, in the Baghdad area.

“Most of them are just like us. They are just trying to put some bread on the table, clothes on their back, and a roof over their head,” Maldonado said of Iraqis.

Baghdad feels like it is locked down all the time due to the curfews that are in place for security purposes, Maldonado said. Nevertheless, he said the streets are still full of traffic and other activity during the day.

(via Blog-Ah!)


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