Editor’s note: As a special service for our readers, WND is running a series of dispatches from Allan Wall chronicling his transition from civilian life as he prepares to fight with his National Guard unit in Iraq. Allan will write for us as often as he is able in order to let our readers vicariously experience what people in his position are going through. We hope you will check regularly for Allan’s dispatches and encourage your friends and family to do likewise.
When a National Guard unit is deployed, many things must take place to prepare its members for duty. Many of these tasks are included under the rubric of “SRP” – Soldier Readiness Process.
The SRP includes a health check and vaccinations, which I reported in the previous two dispatches. It also includes making sure that all the soldiers’ paperwork is in order. This makes it possible for the deployed guardsman to be paid and receive all his benefits. This is very important for his family back home.
It also includes legal matters, such as the power of attorney and a will.
Today, I reported to the military legal specialists, and they prepared these documents for me. My power of attorney specifies that my wife, Lilia, has the authority to carry out all my business when I am away.
She would have anyway, and is already, but it’s good to have a legal document saying so. I couldn’t have left things in better hands than those of my wife.
A military legal officer prepared my last will and testament. With the use of a word processor, the document was prepared rather quickly. And yet, I felt that the officer maintained the dignity the occasion deserves.
When the will was completed, it was covered, folded and handed to me with instructions to entrust it to my wife for safekeeping. It’s a legally binding document, good during and after deployment.
I hope it’s a long time until my wife needs it. …
