Brothers in arms with 1-94 CAV

Courtesy Photo | Pfc. Eskola and Spc. Heitala at their mother's home before a formal event back home.  

CAMP BUEHRING, KUWAIT

10.02.2011

Courtesy Story

1st Armored Brigade Combat Team, 34th Red Bull Infantry Division

By: 2nd Lt Paul Modeen, UPAR, Bravo troop/1-94 CAV

CAMP BUEHRING, Kuwait - As soldiers, we often refer to ourselves as brothers in arms. The sacrifices shared and the times spent together create a bond that can never be rivaled. In times of war and in times of peace, soldiers come together from all corners of our great state and work together to meet their communities’ call to service.

Two soldiers from Bravo Troop, 1-94th Cavalry (1-94 CAV) share an even more unique bond, they actually are brothers. Spc. Nathan Heitala and Pfc. Andrew Eskola have served in the same unit based out of Pine City, Minn., for the past year and have continued to serve overseas in support of Operation New Dawn.

Currently, they are actively participating in the 1-94 CAV Squadrons long haul convoy security escort mission, based out of Camp Buehring, Kuwait. Both soldiers come from an infantry background and have been utilizing their skills as gunners atop of the MRAP Caiman platform since August.

Military service is nothing new to these brothers lives. A family tradition to them, their service in the United States Army completes a circle of service from their fathers and grandfathers that honorably served in the Air force, Navy and the Marine Corps in previous wars.

When asked about the pros and cons of having a family member serve side by side, both brothers will admit that it’s nice to always have someone to count on, someone to reflect about home life with. The hardest part for them is watching one or the other leave on mission. With so many unknowns, they have to remain extra strong and support each other.

“When he goes on mission, even though he is with a great team, I still worry about him and pray he is safe,” Eskola explained.
With two brothers serving in the same unit, the sacrifice made by their family back home is doubled. They are grateful for how strong and supportive their mother has been since choosing to join the United States Army.

As the deployment continues they look to the future with great optimism. Pfc. Eskola and Spc. Heitla look forward to serving together in the National Guard back home and to someday passing on this tradition of service to their children.

• Date Taken: 10.02.2011
• Date Posted: 10.12.2011 03:42
• Story ID: 78348
• Location: CAMP BUEHRING, KW