Deployed as a Postal Platoon Leader
One thing I quickly noticed about deployment was that units often arrive together but then spread out across multiple locations. For instance, the postal platoon I replaced had its main body stationed at Erbil Air Base (EAB), a small team in Qatar, and postal “rodeo” teams flying into Syria to provide support in the Eastern Syria Security Area (ESSA). This pattern of units being distributed across multiple areas, or even countries, was quite common. This is where operational control (OPCON), administrative control (ADCON), and tactical control (TACON) come into play. At EAB, the base commander held operational control over all units stationed there, giving them the authority to ensure mission success within the area of operations.
The importance of networking while on deployment
The most important aspect of deployment for me was learning to network. Networking is the cornerstone of the Golden Warrior Project, and this principle was especially critical during my deployment. As a postal platoon, we had limited resources and were, to be honest, a relatively low priority on base. Additionally, my platoon was stationed at Erbil Air Base (EAB) in Iraq, while our headquarters was at Camp Arifjan, Kuwait, meaning we were effectively “on our own” in Erbil, with only administrative support from headquarters. I quickly realized the importance of building connections at EAB to ensure smooth operations—our success depended on mutual support with other units. Working at the post office provided a unique opportunity to meet units across the base, primarily through their mail clerks. While I couldn’t personally connect with every unit, I emphasized the importance of excellent customer service and rapport-building to my soldiers, encouraging them to engage with the mail clerks. Many soldiers who volunteered to sort mail on delivery days found it a welcome break from their regular duties, and we leveraged this positive atmosphere to strengthen our network on base.
A leader sets the climate - creating a social place
It may seem cliché to hear a leader say, “our job is a family.” However, I worked hard to ensure everyone felt included and valued. Spending the holidays deployed made it essential for me to create a welcoming environment at the post office. Being away from home during the holidays, compounded by the challenges of serving in a combat zone, made the deployment especially difficult for many soldiers. To lift morale, my platoon sergeant and I bought small Christmas gifts for each soldier and organized holiday gatherings, including Christmas, Halloween, and Thanksgiving parties. These optional events gave soldiers a chance to relax, socialize, and even invite battle buddies from other units. I strongly believe in “breaking bread” together—sharing a meal is one of the best ways to build camaraderie. These gatherings became a source of comfort and connection throughout our deployment. I also brought my personal values into my leadership. My family has always valued celebrating birthdays, so I made it a point to honor each soldier’s birthday—whether by taking them out to eat, singing “Happy Birthday,” or sharing a cake, I wanted to ensure they felt appreciated on their special day.
Advancing civilian goals
Many of my soldiers completed college credits during deployment. As I mentioned, no deployment is the same, but for ours, soldiers generally had evenings off after 5 pm and at least one day off each week—sometimes even two during slower periods. Beyond academic goals, many soldiers in my platoon also achieved financial milestones, using deployment pay to pay off cars, credit card debt, student loans, and other debts. I made goal-setting a priority, asking everyone to complete a goal-setting exercise, and I checked in regularly to track their progress, especially with their financial goals.
Advancing military goals
During my deployment, our platoon celebrated seven promotions! Deployment provides an excellent opportunity to focus on advancing military careers. Reservists often face the unique challenge of balancing civilian and military careers, but for those nine months, the Army was our sole responsibility. Many soldiers in my platoon took advantage of this, completing promotion requirements, including online training. One soldier graduated from the Basic Leader Course (BLC), and another achieved Air Assault School graduation.
Advancing personal goals
During deployment, I set personal fitness goals to reduce my run time and lose weight, and deployment provided an ideal opportunity to work toward both. The base hosted several runs, including 5Ks, 10Ks, and even the Norwegian Foot March—an 18.6-mile ruck that some soldiers completed. Many soldiers had fitness goals, and it was inspiring to see them establish regular routines. Fitness accomplishments are something you’ll often hear about from deployments; it’s a great time to get in excellent shape. In addition to fitness goals, many of my soldiers pursued personal goals, such as learning a new language or acquiring new skills.
Reflecting on my deployment, I realize it was far more than a military assignment—it was a journey of personal growth, professional advancement, and strengthening the bonds within my team. While deployment comes with unique challenges, it also offers opportunities to set and achieve meaningful goals, to build lifelong connections, and to develop resilience. From honing our skills to fostering a family-like atmosphere in the face of adversity, my platoon and I grew together in ways that will shape us well beyond our time in service. Ultimately, deployment isn’t just about the mission; it’s about coming back stronger, more connected, and ready for what’s next.