Today I photographed the deployment ceremony for the 1886th Neurosurgery Medical Team. This Army Reserve team is going to Iraq. I learned about their deployment through one of my bridal clients (he’s in the unit). Every time I hear about soldiers returning home injured (or worse) my first thought is always “I hope they got family photos before he / she left.” So when I heard Wayne was going to be deployed, I offered to photograph the deployment and family photos for all of the soldiers. Here are a few photos from the day. 

I like their Unit’s insignia.

Each solider was given an award. The colonial on the left is Colonel Wisdom – great last name.

And then we did family photos. Here are (really) just a few….

When the Captain of the Unit came in for his family photos, he brought me a certificate of appreciation because they give certificates to anybody who helps / supports the Unit. AYMK? I feel like I should give every soldier I meet a certificate of appreciation! I’ve never served in the military (and believe me, you don’t want me handling a gun) but I’ve always wanted to support soldiers in some way. I’m so happy I’ve found a meaningful way to do just that! And I hope to photograph other deployments from this area in the future. Thanks to 2Lt. Janell Averbeck for allowing me to photograph the event. And HUGE thanks to Diversified Lab (www.divlab.com) for printing this order so quickly AND donating the prints. The soldiers will be deployed for 9 – 18 months, please pray for them and their families. Best, ie