New father has new perspective while serving in Afghanistan

Spc. Benjamin Farris (Submitted Photo)

By Jennifer Archdekin
Ngmo.pao@US.ARMY.MIL

SHINDAND, Afghanistan - Since early spring about 170 Citizen-Soldiers with the Trenton-based 548th Transportation Company have been serving on a year-long mission in western Afghanistan. Most of these Citizen-Soldiers will spend the holidays away from Family and friends halfway around the world.

Spc. Benjamin Farris, of Richmond, Mo., is one such Soldier. He is serving as a truck driver and gunner while deployed and has been in the National Guard for three years.

Christmas came early for Farris this year with the special delivery package of his daughter, Gracie, about two months ago. Though he was not present at her birth, he still was able to be a part of it.

"When my daughter was born, I was on Skype and got to hear it all, even the first cry," said Farris.

For Farris, and for any troop serving away from home, communication with loved ones is vital. Hearing the voice of his wife on the phone, looking at a photo of his daughter sent in an e-mail or receiving a care package in the mail from a friend are all morale boosters and can also help those on the home front stay connected.

"Send care packages!" said Farris. "It is always nice to get one or even mail for all of us."

Even the mundane or silly items Soldiers receive can create a smile. Farris recalled one of the most interesting items he received in the mail, though it was probably by accident.

"An open toothbrush," said Farris. "I just use it to clean my weapon."

The Internet has played a huge role in keeping Farris and his Family linked, though service is spotty and not always reliable where he is located.

"I plan on Skype calling them all during holiday events," said Farris. "My Christmas list this year? Just for the Internet to be up and running for good Skype quality."

Farris said he will miss out on the dinners, gift exchanges and being with Family and friends in general, but he will make the most of it with his fellow Citizen-Soldiers.

"I'll decorate my room with a small tree and lights, and watch football," said Farris. "I just want everyone to have a wonderful holiday season and to be home with Family and friends."

While Farris, and others like him, sacrifice time away from home, he remains positive about his mission.

"We're really making a difference here," said Farris. "Travelling really broadens your horizons and I have learned the value of other people and cultures. What has been most memorable is seeing kids' faces light up when we give them treats."

The life lesson Farris said he will take with his from this experience is not to take what he has for granted. That factors into the decision he makes every day to put on the uniform.

"If we don't stand up for what we believe in, America won't be America," said Farris.

At home Farris serves with Company E, 1-135th Aviation Battalion in Clinton. He also works fulltime with Wal-Mart in Richmond. Farris is supported by his wife, Laurel, and daughter, Gracie.

For more information about the Missouri National Guard, please visit www.moguard.com and our social media sites: www.facebook.com/Missouri.National.Guard; www.twitter.com/Missouri_NG; www.youtube.com/MoNationalGuard; www.myspace.com/missouri_ng; www.flickr.com/photos/missouriguard; www.moguard.com/blog