Father, Son Share Special Moment in Iraq

4th Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division

Story by Capt. Rebecca Walsh

11.08.2009 TALIL AIR BASE, Iraq - Maj. Chuck Chapman, the brigade logistical support team chief attached to the 4th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division out of Fort Riley, Kan., visited Talil Air Base, recently to reunite with his stepson, Spc. Paul Weigand.

After three days of travel, Chapman was surprised to learn that Weigand, a 21 year old Satellite Communications Systems Operator with the 4th Brigade, 1st Armored Division out of Fort Bliss, Texas, was ready to re-enlist, and wanted his stepfather to be the reenlisting officer.

The last time Chapman saw his stepson was in March, just before Spc. Weigand deployed to Iraq. For Chapman, being able to be a part of his son's re-enlistment ceremony was a blessing.

"Officers look forward to promoting and reenlisting great Soldiers," Chapman said. "The opportunity to re-enlist my son was an honor, and I'm proud of [him]."

"Having my stepfather re-enlist me was great, something different from what I have been told by my peers and my chain of command," said Weigand, who was a little unsure of how his friends would feel about his officer, stepdad hanging around for a few days. "Spending time with him while we are in Iraq was unique ... It was a good morale booster for me, and I think some of my peers thought it was cool too."

The re-enlistment weekend concluded as Chapman and Weigand used Skype to call and talk to family members back in the states.

"We had a great time laughing and joking together," Chapman said. "It was such a good, mini family reunion."