Behind the scenes

Photo By Zachary Harris | Navy Lt. Alisha Hamilton (left) and Navy Lt. Caleb McDow look over the calendar of events for the day at Joint Task Force Guantanamo headquarters. McDow recently took over for Hamilton as flag aide to the JTF Guantanamo commander.  

GUANTANAMO BAY, CUBA

05.07.2010

Story by Petty Officer 2nd Class Zachary Harris 

Joint Task Force Guantanamo Public Affairs

GUANTANAMO BAY, Cuba -- Of course, one of the greatest things about getting promoted is the pay, but with the increase in rank comes greater responsibility. As your responsibilities grow, so does the number of people dependent on you for leadership and guidance. However, when you reach the upper echelons of the military officer rank structure, you will get a bit of relief: a flag-aide.

The responsibilities of the Joint Task Force Guantanamo flag aide range from keeping the commander and deputy commander on schedule to ensuring that logistics for the execution of that schedule are in place.

"I normally get to the office around 7 a.m. and do what I call the 'dailies,'" said Navy Lt. Caleb McDow, flag aide to Navy Rear Adm. Tom Copeman, the JTF-GTMO commanding officer. "I ensure everything is in order, and I also peruse the morning news for articles that are specific to GTMO or [the] JTF."

The duties of the flag aide extend to the JTF's robust distinguished visitor program. These responsibilities can encompass everything from ensuring enough time is allotted in the commander's schedule to scheduling transportation between Naval Station Guantanamo Bay's Leeward and Windward sides.

"We support the commander," said Navy Lt. Alisha Hamilton, outgoing flag-aide to Copeman. "We ensure he knows what's going on and is properly prepared for DV visits."

The officers who come to JTF-GTMO to serve as the flag aide are expected to hit the ground running and gain competency in the position almost immediately, no matter what their background.

"I've been very fortunate to have two really sharp junior officers, from different warfare communities, support me during my tour here at GTMO," Copeman said. "The job is challenging and is often their first opportunity to serve in a joint capacity, but I think it's a significant professional milestone that will serve them well as they progress in their careers."

"I'm [on temporary orders] from my current [assignment] as a flight instructor," said McDow, a naval aviator. "Working in an office instead of in an airplane is something that I'm not used to."

Hamilton is a surface warfare officer on her way to Department Head School. From there she'll proceed to USS Momsen, where she will serve as the operations officer.

According to Hamilton, her experience at GTMO has had its ups and downs, but has been rewarding overall. "The biggest challenge has been the separation from my family and friends," she said. "But, I think it's incredible to work in a joint environment and gain a greater understanding of it."

For McDow, the separation from his airplane may be hard, but the end result of his work is gratifying.

"I think the thing I like most [about my job] is the satisfaction I get from supporting [the rear admiral]." McDow said. "If I can do anything that makes his job easier or help him execute the mission and do so effectively, that is very rewarding for me."

• Date Taken: 05.07.2010
• Date Posted: 05.10.2010 15:22
• Story ID: 49440
• Location: GUANTANAMO BAY, CU