14 Army Civil Liaison Teams from March deploy to Iraq

  • Published
  • By Capt. Phillip Henry
  • 358th Civil Affairs Brigade
MARCH AIR RESERVE BASE, CALIF. --  They hit the ground and they haven't stopped running yet. That is the life of the newest Civil Affairs unit to arrive here in the Southern California area: the 358th Civil Affairs Brigade.

The 358th was formed in Pennsylvania 60 years ago. Over the last couple of decades, the 358th has sent Soldiers to all parts of the world for everything from humanitarian operations to nation building in Iraq.

The 358th slowed its operational pace down just enough to relocate from Norristown, Pa. to March Air Reserve Base. After arriving at March in early 2008, the brigade immediately began ramping up operations to take control of four Civil Affairs battalions and support numerous exercises throughout the U.S. Pacific Command.

Recently, the 358th was tagged to continue its tradition of nation building when the brigade received orders to prepare to deploy 14 Civil Liaison Teams to Iraq. These CLTs will be working with the State Department, non-governmental organizations, and the Iraq government to ensure a continued stable transition to self-governance in Iraq.

These fourteen CLTs, their family members and friends gathered at the Armed Forces Reserve Center at March on Monday, Jan. 25, to be sent off in grand style. In spite of the family members and Soldiers' mixed emotions of uncertainty and anticipation about the upcoming deployment, the farewell event helped to solidify their resolve, strengthen their bonds and reassure them of the community's support.

The Soldiers' farewell included a full program of events, including everything from an inspiring speech from Dirk Konopik, who represented Congressman Ken Calvert, to face painting and gifts for the kids. The CLTs left the United States knowing their military and civilian supporters here at March and the greater Riverside area appreciate their sacrifices. Most importantly, they left believing they would accomplish exactly what their brigade motto says, "victory for humanity."