A remote to Clear Air Station, Alaska gave me new respect for my family and an understanding of the great sacrifice military members experience. I feel this assignment gave me an insight into how much I really depend on my families support and trust in their decisions. I believe to become a successful leader one needs an understanding of the sacrifices which might be required by our subordinates, and time away from a loved one is one of our most demanding.
             A remote is an assignment to an area with no facilities for family members. It is at least a year long with an opportunity to take a vacation at the six month point. One area that took a while to get used to is the attitudes of the various personnel stationed at the site. Everyone is in a similar situation but each individual reacts differently to it. Most try to make the best of it, while others tend to dwell on their loved ones or are bitter about being put in such a bad situation. This is one assignment where the people you live and work with have a direct impact on site morale.
             When I was first notified of this assignment I thought it would be fun to be able to act like a single irresponsible and carefree person. I had visions of getting off work and going out to party, then coming home to my room and watching television until I fell asleep. This was exactly what it was like, only after a couple of months it was not fun anymore. I began to miss the company of my wife and children, ironic since when I was there I kept to myself and tried to find solitude every chance I got. I made a decision, when I was done with this remote I would change the way I used to be and spend more time with my family.
             At about the middle point in my tour I realized my wife Teresa deserved more credit than I gave her. She took care of the children, paid the bills, managed the household, and never once complained to me about the situation.
             My oldest son Mark, seven years old,
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