JOINT BASE BALAD, Iraq - The Soldiers of D Troop, 2nd Squadron, 278th Armored Cavalry Regiment, 13th Sustainment Command (Expeditionary) out of Ashland City, Tenn., provide security for convoys that travel from Joint Base Balad, Iraq, to destinations throughout the country.
Pfc. Richard J. Boyd, a driver with D Troop and a Pegram, Tenn., native, said his team offers security for KBR, Inc. convoys as they travel from one base to another.
"I volunteered for this mission," he said. "It's got its moments. It's kind of boring when driving the same old scenery, but it's also adrenaline (pumping) because you don't know what is coming up next ... anything could happen."
Boyd said he has to watch out for improvised explosive devices and stay in constant communication with the other Soldiers in the vehicle as he drives.
Sgt. Sean A. Moore, a truck commander with D Troop and a Dickson, Tenn., native, said communication is the key to a successful mission.
"We're constantly talking," he said.
This is Moore's second tour and he said he brought that experience with him. He talks to the driver and gunner to keep them focused, making sure everybody is on the same page in case an IED explodes or a vehicle breaks down.
"We get the guys to look for anything out of the ordinary," he said.
Spc. Edward M. Ramsey, a gunner with D Troop, said he prepares for the mission by getting sleep and fueling his body.
"(We drink) lots and lots of caffeine," said Ramsey, a Clarksville, Tenn., native.
Moore said as the truck commander it is vital that he is focused and ready for whatever may come his way, and it starts when he and his Soldiers are not on convoys. He makes sure his Soldiers get plenty of rest and downtime to stay focused when it comes time for a mission, he said.
"(They) do anything they can to get their mind off of what's outside the wire," he said. "Everybody needs that time to decompress."
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