U. S. Division-North Public Affairs Office

Sgt. Johnathon Jobson, TF Marne Public Affairs

Contingency Operating Base Speicher, Iraq –They were more than 6,000 miles from the St. Patrick’s Day festivities in the states, but Soldiers from Task Force Marne paused to celebrate the day, Marne style, March 17.

            With multiple festivities hosted by the TF Marne G-6 section, there was something for everyone.

“We had a leprechaun look-a-like contest, limerick writing contest and pool tournament, as well as a large St. Patrick's Day cake,” said Chief Warrant Officer 2 James Henry, an information systems technician for the TF Marne G-6 Automations section.

            For the leprechaun look-a-like contest Soldiers from TF Marne submitted images of themselves or others with their faces digitally edited on to leprechaun bodies. Approximately 20 images were submitted to be voted on by the Soldiers who work in the D-Main building.

            "We have about 20 leprechauns vying to be the king of the leprechauns, even though I am the true king of the leprechauns," explained Chief Warrant Officer 3 Michael Ferrera, a network management technician for the TF Marne G6, who was dressed up as a leprechaun, beard and all, for the festivities. "The winner will receive a $25 AAFES gift card."

            The first-place winner for the Leprechaun look-a-like contest was Col. Thomas James, the TF Marne chief of staff.

            The second contest, the Limerock o’ the Marne was based on people’s description of life on Contingency Operation Base Speicher. Competitors mainly described life working in the Joint Operations Center and food at the dining facilities. Other subjects included deployment life and relationships.

            As the evening continued, Soldiers gathered to watch the Savannah St. Patrick’s Day Parade as it was streamed live from the U.S.

            “It's different [celebrating St. Patrick’s Day here], but I have to say that I am happy to see everyone breaking away from their job to spend some time together,” said Sgt. 1st Class Chris Patel, the noncommissioned officer in charge of the TF Marne G-2 Geospatial Intelligence. “Little events like this help raise morale.”