Since being here in Iraq, I’ve been given several opportunities that I may not have received back in the States. I’ve had the chance to work with people of a different nation, work with people of different services, and work with agencies that you would normally see in an action-packed movie. Dining with General Petreaus seemed to be the highlight of my time in Iraq. There aren’t too many people who can say they were invited to have Christmas lunch with the Commander of CENTCOM. My deployment had gotten off to a great start. There was very little that could make it better – or so I thought.
A late day in December, I was asked by my supervisor if I would be interested in having dinner with the Commandant of the Marine Corps, another 4-Star General. He would also be accompanied by the Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps. Excited and honored, I accepted. Little did I know that I has less than an hour to get ready for the event.
After changing into a clean uniform and brushing up my appearance, I headed over to the bus stop to catch a ride to the other side of camp. After waiting for what seemed like hours, a bus finally arrived and I was on my way. Once arriving at the chow hall, I hurried inside to the table where several others were waiting. The visitors had not yet arrived so I was still in good shape.
Upon his arrival, he was accompanied by several others, ranging from 1- to 3-Star Generals, Colonels, and a host of other officers and high-ranking enlisted members. Sitting next to a Sergeant Major from Japan and across from the Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps, we dined while making conversation with one another. Ironically, the Sergeant Major to my right was interested in motorcycles and we had a rather lengthy discussion of bikes and riding courses.
After chatting for an hour and a half, well past closing time for the chow hall, we all lined up to get in a few group photos. Within 72 hours, I had eaten with two 4-Stars and the entourage that accompanied them. The best part – at both events, I was the only Air Force person. I felt the huge honor of representing my branch of service during the two distinguished visits.
As the days here have began to become routine, a visit from a high-ranking official is a welcomed change of pace. Most would love (or be afraid) to have dinner with a General but I looked forward to the moment… twice. Adding another coin to my collection, I’ve added another story to pass on to friends and family back home once I return.
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