From 1993 to 1999, Brian Duffy and his friend Aaron Downey were in school together; from sixth grade at Westchester Middle School, to graduation day at Chesterton High School. After which they lost contact, as many friends do.

Imagine their surprise when they ran into each other half way across the world. Both are stationed in Camp Cooke, AL Taji, Iraq. The unexpected reunion took place in one of the camp's dining facilities. Both men were almost unrecognizable to each other. “We've changed so much,” said Duffy.

Sergeant Downey is now a loving husband and father of two. He is a 15T, which is a Blackhawk crew chief, for A company 4-3, 3rd Infantry Division, out of Ft. Campbell, Kentucky. This is his second deployment in his six years in the army. His previous deployment was with the 101st Aviation.

Duffy, on the other hand, has a daughter and plans on marrying her mother upon his return home. Duffy is a 42F, which is a human resources information system management specialist, and belongs to the personnel services battalion 18th Airborne Core out of Ft. Bragg, North Carolina. This is Duffy’s first deployment since he joined the Army in April of 2004.

Both men send their love to their families, and want to let them know that they are safe and in good spirits.

Also, they say they are happy to represent their hometown of Chesterton, Indiana.

Duffy’s e-mail address is brian.e.duffy@us.army.mil

Posted 4/13/2005