JAG officers readying for year-long deployment
Jan 23rd, 2009 by Michelle Lore
In Monday’s issue of Minnesota Lawyer we introduce you to several Army JAG officers who’ll be leaving for a year-long deployment in Iraq in a couple weeks. (Pictured is assistant Hennepin County Attorney Jennifer Beck-Brown.)
The lawyers I talked with for the article — “Soldiers’ Stories” — are part of the Minnesota Army National Guard’s 34th Infantry Division, which is deploying more than 1,000 soldiers to provide leadership, command, logistics and communication support for four brigades of more than 16,000 coalition forces in southern Iraq. The group deploys Feb. 13, but will spend eight weeks in Fort Lewis, Wash., for training before leaving for Iraq.
Some of the JAG officers will be handling military justice matters, while others will be working in the civil arena, handling things like contract, administrative and fiscal issues. They’ll also be assisting the local Iraqi government in serving its population and ensuring that the United States complies with its status of forces agreement with Iraq.
When talking with these folks I was struck by how they all seemed genuinely proud to be a part of this mission. They are giving up their law practices, leaving their families and entering a war zone, but they are glad to do so in service to their country. They have my utmost respect and I wish them well.
I also plan on keeping in touch with the soldiers as they go through their stateside training and later as they engage in their duties in Iraq. I’ll be passing along their stories, experiences and, hopefully, even some photos as I get them.
I was a JAGC officer back in the late 70’s, and it was an honor to serve in that capacity. That was also the job where I probably had the most fun. The Army JAGC officer is a vital part of the military and a great way for a lawyer to serve his or her country. The work is challenging and varied, and fun. I think many lawyers would benefit from this kind of experience. We will be thinking of our Minnesota lawyers as they serve in Iraq. Our thought are with you. Gavin Craig