Sgt. Brian Patton from Austin, Texas had a interesting observation today while talking about the brigade’s extension. If Iraq had a Permanent Fund Dividend, most of the nearly 4,000 soldiers would now qualify, since they’ve remained in the country for more than 14 months.
None of them, however, would be willing to check the box on the application asking if the applicant plans to remain in the state, or country, indefinitely.
Patton, who spent more time in Anchorage stationed at Fort Richardson than most soldiers, asked about the governors’ race and other headline topics in Alaska. But for the most part, he said soldiers don’t pay much attention to politics. Except for the Stars and Stripes and precious internet access, there isn’t much time to keep up on state elections and even national politics.
Patton did issue a prediction about at least one political figure. Remembering how U.S. Secretary of Defense Donald Rumsfeld visited soldiers, including the 172nd last Christmas in Mosul, Patton said he’d be surprised if Rumsfeld made any holiday visits this year.
“I don’t think he’s coming this year,” Patton said. “If we’re still here.”