Schwarzenegger tours Army green energy in Kuwait

Photo By Capt. Peter Mrvos | Arnold Schwarzenegger, the former governor of California, stands with Soldiers from the 40th Combat Aviation Brigade during the playing of Retreat at Camp Arifjan, Kuwait, April 28, 2016. Schwarzenegger filmed a National Geographic documentary, Years of Living Dangerously, a TV series and internet project focused on climate change which is scheduled to air in October. Taking center stage, the U.S. Army Central operational energy program showcased initiatives to conserve energy and resources, including installing solar power light towers, implementing solar panels, and modular energy efficient structures. (Photo by U.S. Army Capt. Peter Mrvos, USARCENT)  

CAMP ARIFJAN, KUWAIT

04.28.2016

Story by Sgt. James Bunn 

U.S. Army Central   

Former Governor of California Arnold Schwarzenegger braved the Kuwaiti heat to see how the army is harnessing the power of the sun to go green.
During his time at Camp Arifjan and Camp Buehring, Arnold shot scenes for the second season of the documentary series “Years of Living Dangerously,” a National Geographic television series that focuses on climate change.
“I am here in Kuwait filming at different military bases about green energy,” said Schwarzenegger. “I think it is really unbelievable and so fantastic that the military is now thinking about making some of the bases green.”
Schwarzenegger made sure while in Kuwait to take time to visit with Soldiers, give them a once-in-a-lifetime experience and thank them for what they do April 27-28.
“While filming, I also want to visit the troops. I want to say hi to them, I want to tell them ‘thank you, thank you, thank you’ for the great work they’re doing protecting our country, and making the United States a safe place.”
Soldiers were as honored to meet him and show him the various vehicles they use to fight aggression in the U.S. Army Central area of responsibility.
“Gov. Schwarzenegger was extremely personable,” said 1st Lt. Alison Altz, a route clearance platoon leader in Company B, 82nd Brigade Engineer Battalion, 2nd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division. “He was easy to talk to and laid back. He was intrigued by what we do and passionate about Soldiers. He seemed honored when we asked him to participate in a promotion ceremony. Four of my Soldiers got this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.”
During a re-enlistment ceremony on Camp Buehring, the former governor said that it was an honor to participate in such an important part of a Soldiers carrier.
“I re-enlisted for 2 more years of active duty service and he was a part of the ceremony,” said Spc. James Berg, a wheeled vehicle mechanic in Company B, 299th Brigade Support Battalion, 2nd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division. “He helped hold the flag and congratulated me on making the choice to further serve my country. It meant a lot to me that he took the time to be a part of this major event in my career.”

• Date Taken: 04.28.2016
• Date Posted: 05.03.2016 11:05
• Story ID: 197124
• Location: CAMP ARIFJAN, KW