'There I was'

  • Published
  • By Senior Master Sgt. Sana Hooks
  • Top III
MACDILL AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. --  There I was, scheduling my weapons training and later waiting for my shots at the immunization clinic, thinking if this deployment was going to be different than previous taskings.

I've spiritually, mentally and physically prepared myself for any challenge as the J4 forward logistics liaison, senior noncommissioned officer at the Joint Communications Support Element's Headquarters Systems Control, Qatar. What did that mean to me? I wasn't really sure how this deployment would turn out, but my sole purpose was to ensure the Task Force commander's logistics needs were met at Qatar and forward operating bases throughout the AOR.

Upon arrival, I couldn't wait to get off the airplane, in-process and unpack for my deployment. Much to my surprise, I was assigned to a very nice dormitory room in the Central Command forward facility. I thought 'Wow,' this is definitely a good start for my deployment. As I proceeded to my room, it felt as if I never left Tampa; there were lighted pathways into the dormitory, the hallways were decorated with fake palm trees and yes, laundry facilities were available inside the dorm. This dormitory continued to surprise me. When I opened the door to what I thought was a bathroom, there was a kitchen with tables, chairs, cabinets, small refrigerator and a full bathtub. The comment from other military members about Qatar being the "Club Med" in the Middle East makes sense now that I've seen the facilities.

After I finished unpacking and a four-hour nap, I was ready for work. I proceeded toward this huge building and couldn't help thinking that this can't be where I'm working; once inside the facility, I thought this is even nicer than my dormitory room. My first hour consisted of an in-brief with the Task Force commander and the sergeant major. After speaking with both of them, I knew I would be busy, as the concept of bringing staff members to SYSCON was dormant for years. I assisted the supply sergeant who deployed with the task force on logistics matters and wanted to ensure the Relief in Place Transfer of Authority was a smooth transition from one task force commander to another.

Staying focused kept me in tune with logistics and the needs of this deployment and I asked myself, "What makes this job different from any other deployment?"

I answered by thinking about the logistic functions J4 provides in-garrison. Working in JCSE, you not only need to know supply, you must have knowledge of all aspects of the logistics division. The supply sergeant and I used skills from four AFSCs and/or MOS, and incorporated our knowledge gained through CBTs, on-line training and turn-over into our daily operations. As I continued turnover from my predecessor, I realized this deployment was unique. The missions were high profile and the logistics of moving parts, personnel and pieces throughout the AOR was a factor in helping the task force commanders complete the RIP/TOA and mission requests.

Over the next few weeks, I continued to get more involved with the processes as the left-seat, right-seat turnover concept was finalized and RIP/TOA was handed over to the new commander. I thought these next few months were going to be interesting, as new leadership settled into their positions.

My job didn't change, but I still wanted to ensure the logistical needs were met - more thorough planning, coordinating of details and improving on processes already in place seemed to take precedence for the new commander, who seemed more demanding. Once I realized the commander's intent, putting the actions in motion seemed more realistic. For example, not all the logistics processes were automated and numerous hours were spent tracking, coordinating transfers and moving communication parts in and out of the AOR and in-garrison. It seemed as though this was a new concept and the logistics team was trying to find innovative ways to decrease the man-hours spent tracking parts.

Despite the long hours, I realized the base had several programs to include mentorship, monthly physical training events, education, numerous volunteer opportunities and other forward deployed combined commands. This made my job more satisfying knowing I could reach out and touch another J4 forward logistician. Besides the job satisfaction, meeting, greeting and talking to people from all military services is what kept me motivated, dedicated and focused on the JCSE's unique mission.

Not everyone realizes the impact from a deployment until it actually happens. My husband and I always prepare our son and daughter well in advance, and they actually look forward to mom's deployments. I surprise them with notes, small gifts, trinkets, gift cards and homemade hello-a-grams monthly until I return home. They refer to the gifts as "Boxes from the Desert." Even though they received only four boxes this time, they were quite pleased with mom's creativity. I couldn't have asked for anything more than to see my family doing so well while I was away. Both of my children made the honor roll.

As military members, we are selected whether we volunteer or are tasked to travel our entire career. Even though I spiritually, mentally and physically prepared myself for this deployment, it was the reassignment to the joint environment which helped me the most. I couldn't imagine the concerns of the Joint Communications Squadron supply sergeant until I deployed as a staff member during the RIP/TOA. Having experienced this turnover, I wrote down key points and captured the information on a PowerPoint presentation and trip report hoping the comments would be beneficial for the next staff member's visit to Headquarters' SYSCON. This experience helped me appreciate the conveniences of this deployment and focus overall on supporting the task force commanders unique mission request and troops deployed throughout the AOR.

"The Best Support The Rest!"