Looming War Hits Home for Utah State Students

The possibility of war with Iraq has many effects on Utah State University and its students.

At USU there are over 1,000 students who are involved with the military forces, according to Sergeant First Class Lawrelle Cook.

Most of these students are enlisted in the ROTC, officers training, and are unable to be activated for the conflict with Iraq. The remaining students are enlisted in the Utah and Idaho National Guards and are eligible for activation, mobilization and deployment said Cook.

USU students have been notified of their activation process, and have been sent to different locations. There were 37 members of the Idaho National Guard Preston Unit who were activated and mobilized to Hill Air Force Base on January 30, for at least one year. And every week, more units are being activated throughout the state.

"Utah has the highest number of National Guardsmen called to Iraq right now, out of the entire Union," said Lt. Col Jeff Bateman.

"I somehow knew I was going to get the call to activate duty," said Specialist Eric Aston, a USU student and member of the Idaho National Guard. "My whole life has flipped. I had to drop my classes and quit my job, just pick up and leave everything."

"All in all soldiers have a strong desire to stand up for freedom of their rights," said Cook. "They are still students continuing their education, but willing to give it up, so the rest of us can."

Many services are provided for activated members of the military, along with their families. There are services to help with financial aid, legal consultation, and family support groups. The military also provides help with education and much more.

"Anyone in their right mind would not be thrilled to go to war, but it has to be done and it is necessary. I do not look forward, but I will go," said Specialist Rob Andreason, a junior at USU and member of the Idaho National Guard.

By Ellie Riggs