Would-be soldier enlists, making good on his word
Jon
Alverez
04/06/2003
Wednesday, April 06, 2005
By Pedro Ramirez III
Staff writer
In a letter to the editor in December, Jon Alvarez said he would gladly take the place of a soldier complaining about serving in Iraq.
That sparked letters from people urging the Baldwinsville native to make good on his offer. When the Army lifted its age limits, Alvarez's critics again submitted letters urging him to sign up. Some offered to give him a ride to the recruiter's. Others offered to throw Alvarez a send-off party and give him a bucket of chicken for the trip to Iraq.
In a week, Alvarez turns 39 and he may get the birthday gift he wants: To join the Army Reserves and go to Iraq. Alvarez still must pass his physical on Saturday, and once he's in, there's no guarantee the Army will send him overseas. But he's hoping. "Looks like they're going to take me!" Alvarez gleefully said on Tuesday. "There's guys in Iraq that have been on long tours. . . . If I can get over there, help bring someone home who's done their part, so be it."
Alvarez said he tried enlisting in March 2004. The Army said he was too old. Alvarez said he asked Rep. Jim Walsh to help him get in. But rules are rules until last month. Facing recruiting shortages, the Army raised the age limit to enlist from 34 to 39. Others like Alvarez who benefit from the change have stepped up, said Sgt. David M. McDougall.
As for Alvarez, he'll probably join a civil affairs unit like the one in Mattydale. Civil Affairs soldiers are in great demand to help rebuild Afghanistan and Iraq. If Alvarez goes to Iraq, he hopes his fans will show their support. "Obviously, my liberal fan base is ecstatic about the opportunity to support my military career," Alvarez said. "I hope they come through. I'll let them know where to send their care packages."
Original
Article
Jon Alvarez
Syracuse, NY
PABAAH: Patriotic Americans Boycotting Anti-American Hollywood
(Become a Member)
Why we fight:
Visit Alvy's
forum
Bush Country
