SOTECH 2010 Volume: 8 Issue: 4 (June)
As a non-combat arms soldier, I have often wondered about special operations servicemembers—wondering, why did you volunteer? “I don’t know! We were boys—wanted to know what was the ‘extra dangerous duty.’ When we found out, we hadn’t the face to back down.” And that’s how it all began. Arch Rowand, of the 1st West Virginia Cavalry, led a life of adventure, receiving a Medal of Honor for actions in March of 1865.
Mosby’s Rangers to Army Rangers, LRRPs, and all special operations members could find traits common to themselves and Archibald Rowand. These traditions continue and can be found on the pages of this publication, along with all the cool gadgets as well.
My background is in public affairs as well as combat photography and journalism. As a soldier I was deployed to OIF in 2004-2005. My most recent deployment was as a civilian in 2009, where I worked in the deputy chair for 2nd Brigade 1st Armor Division. During this time, I met and became good friends with two former special operations soldiers, Charlie and Guy. Guy had been in the medical field and was in Iraq to advise the Iraqis on emergency and field medicine. Charlie was providing advice on security operations and related issues for the Iraqi government. While different in mission and scope, they provided outstanding service to the Iraqi government and unforgettable friendship to me.
As with all of KMI Media Group’s publications, SOTECH is free to qualified members of the service. Please visit the Special Operations Technology Website to see how to receive each new issue of the magazine.
Please feel free to contact me with any questions or comments, or look for me at a Major League ballpark in your town.
 Phil Kiver, Editor This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it |
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