CAMP ARIFJAN, Kuwait – Soldiers march through the toughest circumstances. For many service members, deploying overseas means spending time away from loved ones. For one lucky Third Army soldier, deploying brought her closer to her best friend: her brother.
Master Sgt. Sheila T. Marshall, 1st Theater Sustainment Command, support operations and native of St. Pauls, N.C., arrived here Feb. 2010. When she received her orders, she couldn’t believe it - she was going to be working less than one minute away from her brother.
“When I came down on orders, I was overfilled with joy,” said Marshall. “I had no idea we’d be stationed together. My brother and I have been best friends forever.”
Sidney Lewis, a field service representative and a St. Pauls, N.C. native, is Marshall’s brother and has lived in the region since July 2004. Seeing his sister for the first time in years was something he said he’ll never forget.
“I was ecstatic to see her,” Lewis explained. “She truly is my best friend, and I love her unconditionally; no distance could ever separate us. I know it also makes our mom proud to see us doing so well.”
Lewis recalled cherished memories of the two playing outside in the small town of St. Pauls and eventually attending the same high school.
“Growing up, we use to always play outside in the woods,” added Lewis. “As we got older, we both went to St. Pauls High School. I played baseball and football, and my sister was a star athlete in softball. She even got inducted into the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association hall of fame.”
Now stationed alongside her brother, Marshall said having her brother around is a huge boost to her morale.
“When you’re working hard seven days a week, it’s wonderful to have your best friend around to talk to,” Marshall said. “If I ever feel down, I can always just reach out and get his support; not to mention he cooks for me and always brings me some of his delicious barbecue ribs.”
Upon leaving the area of responsibility, Marshall said she’s going to miss her brother, but be glad she had the chance to spend so many precious moments with him.
“It’s going to be tough when it’s time to go,” explained Marshall. “I’m going to miss him, his cooking, and our conversations. I’m just thankful every day for the time we’ve had to spend with each other.”