Tomorrow, I'll be joining 40 business and community leaders from across the country to participate in the week long Joint Civilian Orientation Conference(JCOC) - a program sponsored by the Secretary of Defense that aims to increase the public's understanding of national defense.
I 'm excited, and a little nervous, to see what this week has in store. The information I've received on what I'll be doing exactly is pretty vague for security reasons. I know that I'll be attending briefings by senior military officials at the Pentagon. Throughout the week we'll gain hands-on experience by participating in operations and interacting with troops and military leaders, and we'll visit military installations on the East Coast.
Judging from the clothing items I've been told to pack, we will be working in water and getting physical. One of the hardest adjustments will be the 5 a.m. wake up time and the fact that I'll be away from my son and of course, my home town.
This opportunity, however, is something I am very much looking forward to. I have so much respect for the men and women and their families who serve to keep our great city and nation safe. After this week, I'm sure I will gain a whole new level of understanding on just what their sacrifice and commitment entails.
Mayor Lawrence wrote the secretary of defense back when he was Mayor, encouraging JCOC to have more mayors involved. And so, I think it is appropriate to thank him - one of our City's greatest mayors - for this opportunity.
I encourage you to check in every night to read about my experiences as a JCOC 83 participant.
Wish me luck!
- MLR
