Four months into their deployment to Afghanistan, Soldiers of the 14th Military Intelligence Battalion, as Task Force Viper continue to execute their interrogation mission … and make the most of their situation in the cold and snow as well.
"The Soldiers continue to do an outstanding job," said Lt. Col. Kris Arnold, task force commander. "The evaluations on our reports continue to increase and get better, which is a key indicator that the intelligence community finds much value in our work."
Command Sgt. Maj. Michael Fanelli saw dramatic progress in the development of the task force's mission.
"The long days provide opportunities to showcase our talents of production, lending to some sense of satisfaction in knowing that the results of our efforts are widely recognized as a solid contribution to the ultimate end state … transition to Afghan control…," Fanelli said.
Nevertheless, it's not all work and no play -- although it was necessary to tackle more work to make morale, welfare and recreation (MWR) time more enjoyable. Capt. Lauren Nowak, headquarters and headquarters detachment (HHD) commander, reported that Soldiers completed an MWR room for the theater intelligence group.
"The new MWR room has two TVs, one for movies and one for video games or karaoke," Nowak said. "Sgt. Derrick Bush [HHD orderly room NCO] added two computers for surfing the Web and two phones for calling family members…. He also arranged for additional furniture and built shelves and end tables from scratch."
Gyms are also available for the Soldiers to use when off duty.
"There is a big gym with free weights and machines which leaves little to be desired," said Chief Warrant Officer 3 Justin Clemit. "There is also some space upstairs for aerobic activity or the use of floor mats."
Capt. Christa Martin, Bravo Company commander, said her company conducts organized physical fitness training to ensure everybody stays physically fit, although Soldiers are working out individually as well.
"Many Soldiers are interested in burning body fat and making their muscles grow," she said.
Cold temperatures and snow have not only encouraged more indoor activity but also inspired some introspection.
"This deployment has changed my life in every way, from my plans all the way down to my work ethic," said Sgt. Demetrios Green. "I feel empowered by the bigger picture, in which I am represented as a single brush stroke."
Whether the day is a good one or a bad one, Green said, "Somehow you continue to rise to the occasion and shave your face, put your boots on and give every day all that you have…."
The deployed Soldiers also think of others even as others remember them.
Chaplain (Capt.) Mary Baars reported that Task Force Viper members have received fleece blankets and scarves from two Presbyterian churches that they intend to give to their Afghan neighbors.
"Even more than receiving support from home for themselves, Soldiers have expressed how much it helps them to be able to share with those who are in need, even improving our unit morale," said Baars.
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