TAMARINDO, El Salvador – With temperatures reaching more than 90 degrees in May, Joint Task Force Jaguar soldiers follow a strict work-rest schedule, which increases safety. Medics assigned to task force have learned teamwork helps get better results.
Spc. Paul Vargas, medic, 145th Multifunctional Medical Brigade, helps out the 136th Engineers whenever possible.
“I do it primarily to get close to the other soldiers,” said Vargas. “One way to build trust is being willing to pick up a hammer and do a job no else wants to do, plus you get to know the soldiers better and see how they work.”
The children have been the extra incentive for increased soldier camaraderie.
“When we drive down the road, all the kids come running out to wave. So you see who the school is going to be for and it really motivates you,” said Cadet Kristen Conley, 136th Engineer Company (vertical), Lewiston, Maine.
Soldiers like Spc. Alyssa Sablaon, medic, 144th Medical Detachment, San Diego, Calif., talks about her reasons for going above and beyond her duty requirements.
“Were not just here to sit around, were all in this as a team. So were doing our part to help out and build schools for these children,” said Sablaon. “I enjoy getting my hands dirty and I take a sense of pride in doing both parts.”