Ansonia Navy Reservist Returns From Afghanistan

Ansonia resident Pat Henri returned from a seven-month tour in Afghanistan Friday, Jan. 13. 

Henri, a chief petty officer in the Navy Reserve, was stationed at Camp Eggers in Kabul Afghanistan. 

Henri was the senior enlisted leader in a 20-man joint service of Navy and Air Force personnel. 


He sent the following description of some of his duties and experiences in Afghanistan:

I took care of personnel admin requirements and business contracts. As the senior enlisted person, I was also responsible for the health, well-being, safety and professional development of all the enlisted members. I was the enlisted advisor to the Public Affairs director (my boss). 

I also went on approximately 30 missions outside the wire” on routes classified as high probability of attack,” to training camps/facilities in the Kabul area to document training evolutions/events or to transport visiting media including Col. Oliver North and Dan Rather. 

I also met Suzanne Malveaux from CNN when she came to camp for a few days around 9/11.

Through USO visits, I met astronauts Neil Armstrong, Gene Cernan and Jim Lovell. American Idol 6th season winner Jordan Sparks, who my wife loves, was there so I had her hold a sign that said Hello Cheryl” and got my picture taken with her. 

Living conditions were tolerable.”

Henri said he received five awards during his time in Afghanistan:

  • Defense Meritorious Service Medal
  • Afghanistan Campaign Medal
  • NATO Medal
  • Overseas Service Ribbon
  • Military Outstanding Service Medal

Photos provided by John Marini.

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