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

My oldest son Mark, seven years old, took on the responsibility of being the man of the house. This really didn't consist of much, but I think my son felt he needed to show Dad he could take my place and in the process grew up too fast. To this day he still disciplines his younger sister for staying out late or talking on the phone too long.

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.

I received a commendation medal after leaving Alaska, but in my mind the courage and dedication of my wife and two children deserved the medal; for without their loving support I could not of given 100 percent to my job.

Some common words found in the essay are:
Station Alaska, Thank God, Heart Chavez, Achey Breaky, wife children, Bibliography None, remote assignment, , sacrifices required,
Approximate Word count = 791
Approximate Pages = 3 (250 words per page double spaced)