Iraq veteran returns for second tour

For CW4 Robert Burke, 2nd Battalion 641st Aviation Regiment Pilot from Columbia, SC, spending time in Iraq is nothing new. Currently serving his second tour of duty in Iraq as a fixed-wing aviator CW4 Burke has seen many notable changes during his time spent in country compared with his last tour.

CW4 Burke’s first tour in Iraq was a challenging one. As an AH-64 Apache attack helicopter pilot supporting the 25th Infantry Division in the Mosul and Tall Afar provinces, CW4 Burke saw action first hand on multiple occasions.

CW4 Burke said that one of the most difficult job aspects for him was providing close air support within the immediate proximity of friendly troops, a daunting task which requires complete concentration and great experience to master.

Now on his second tour, things are completely different with a new set of challenges on the horizon.

“I’m currently flying C-12s, a utility/cargo fixed-wing aircraft. The missions are 180 degrees apart,” CW4 Burke said. “I’m transporting personnel and equipment to and from different locations.”

As a Regional Airline Captain for a major commercial airline out of Atlanta, Georgia, CW4 Burke is aware of the risks of flying; and as a war veteran, he knows the threats of combat.

“There are always dangers with aviation assignments,” CW4 Burke said. “Here in Iraq, we have additional dangers [besides] small arms fire, [but also] surface to air threats.”

Well into his tour since arriving in Sept. 2008, CW4 Burke faces missions that will ultimately bring him face to face with dangers time and time again in the months to come.

This time in Iraq, CW4 Burke says there is more than just enemy activity as an immediate threat to his mission.

“Weather brings its own set of challenges,” CW4 Burke said.

The hostile weather and climate of Iraq, with its turbulent sandstorms and tough to predict weather patterns, brings about challenges tough enough to test even the most experienced of pilots. Vigilance and adherence to training are key to completing the mission and bringing peace to the war-torn nation.

As pilots gain the degree of experience and battle tested stamina that CW4 Robert Burke has, the U.S. Army is one step closer to completing its mission of peace and stability in the region.

By SSG Mark Pekkola, 2-641 Aviation Regiment Unit Public Affairs Representative