thedrifter
05-01-07, 06:53 AM
Marines take time to transition
Updated: April 30, 2007 09:51 AM
By ANNE SCHIEBER
WALKER - The Marines of Alpha Company have been out of combat for about a month already, allowing them a period of decompression.
Families have been preparing for this reunion for several weeks after months of anxiety, worrying and wondering what's happening to their loved ones. The 30-second reunion has been anticipated for quite a while.
After six months in combat in some of Iraq's most dangerous places, the Marines of Alpha Company may be different people than when they left.
Probably no Marine will walk back into a newer life than Lcpl. Domenico Fornaro. He has a new wife, a new stepson, and a new baby daughter, Isabella, born 27 days ago.
Not every Marine is dealing with a new spouse, new baby and new home, but there are plenty of other adjustments, something as ordinary as driving a new car.
In combat, Marines drive Humvees down dangerous roads at fast speeds. But they're reminded now about speed limits.
They also have the challenge of returning to a regular job. Many Marines are young enough they're still in college or school. Lcpl. Fornaro returns to his job as a Verizon manager June 1.
Fornaro and all the Marines of Alpha Company will take at least one month off with pay. It will help ease their transition into their new role as civilian.
Ellie
Updated: April 30, 2007 09:51 AM
By ANNE SCHIEBER
WALKER - The Marines of Alpha Company have been out of combat for about a month already, allowing them a period of decompression.
Families have been preparing for this reunion for several weeks after months of anxiety, worrying and wondering what's happening to their loved ones. The 30-second reunion has been anticipated for quite a while.
After six months in combat in some of Iraq's most dangerous places, the Marines of Alpha Company may be different people than when they left.
Probably no Marine will walk back into a newer life than Lcpl. Domenico Fornaro. He has a new wife, a new stepson, and a new baby daughter, Isabella, born 27 days ago.
Not every Marine is dealing with a new spouse, new baby and new home, but there are plenty of other adjustments, something as ordinary as driving a new car.
In combat, Marines drive Humvees down dangerous roads at fast speeds. But they're reminded now about speed limits.
They also have the challenge of returning to a regular job. Many Marines are young enough they're still in college or school. Lcpl. Fornaro returns to his job as a Verizon manager June 1.
Fornaro and all the Marines of Alpha Company will take at least one month off with pay. It will help ease their transition into their new role as civilian.
Ellie