Specialist Jarret Purvis, an all-wheeled vehicle mechanic for the 742nd Support Maintenance Company, South Carolina Army National Guard, was deployed for nearly 11 months for Operation Atlantic Resolve in support of U.S. Army Europe. On Dec. 16, 2017, he and his unit returned home.
Through some planning and a little help from relatives, it was a homecoming to remember for SPC Purvis and his family.
“It was my daughter’s 4th birthday, and I wanted to surprise her,” said SPC Purvis, who began preparations in November to surprise his wife Ashley and their two daughters, ages two and four.
Purvis said the planning was pretty easy because he didn’t give his wife any firm dates on his return and led her to believe demobilization and outprocessing would take longer. When his unit arrived at the airport in Columbia, S.C., he was able to execute his plan with help from members of his Family. He made his entrance during his daughter’s party in a gymnasium in Lexington, S.C.
“I was completely shocked,” Ashley Purvis said. “I had no idea he was coming home, and it was an overwhelmingly emotional surprise with lots of tears.”
During his 10 years in the Army National Guard, SPC Purvis has deployed two times. During those times of separation, he said he missed a lot of milestones in his daughters’ lives and many holidays. Through these tough times, he knew the sacrifices he made had purpose, and the benefits that come with military service were well worth it for him and his Family.
“My first daughter was born during my first deployment to Afghanistan in 2013,” SPC Purvis said. “It was challenging to watch my daughters grow up through video chats and photos.
“The reason why I continue to serve my country is because I love my job. I love working on different types of vehicles that I normally don’t see, but the big determining factor is the long-term benefits for my wife and kids.”
For many service members to continue their mission, a strong support system is key. Knowing that the people they leave behind will be there for them and help them push on gives them purpose. A support system includes civilian employers as well as Family and friends.
For the last three years, SPC Purvis has worked for International Paper as a corrugator control room operator. He said his employer has always supported him and his military career.
“My management at International Paper is very supportive and understanding with my military career,” said SPC Purvis. “Without their support and understanding, I wouldn’t be able to pursue or continue my duties in the military – and it would make life so much harder.”
BY SPC Chelsea Baker, SOUTH CAROLINA NATIONAL GUARD
