By:Jerry Burke
One just came home from six months in Iraq, the other departs for Japan for the next year. Such is the life of the Marine, and Elmont's lucky to have both.
The meringue bands could be heard playing along Dutch Broadway last week as the friends and family of Lance Corporal Gian Carlo Arismendi rejoiced in his return from six months in Iraq, where he helped lead supply routes to the First Tier support group.
"Were so happy he's home safe," said Gian's grandmother Sylvia, who joined her Elmont family in the relief of seeing him get home safe. Assemblyman Tom Alfano join his family in welcoming the decorated Marine back. "Gian Carlo had an important job and he did it well," said Alfano. "He drove 12-hour convoys, gave out food and water and re-supplied the troops as they made their way to Baghdad."
Gian Carlo, already recognized by the Marines four times with service medals, added a citation from the State Assembly to his mantle.
Arismendi served in Kuwait and Iraq for six months where he was part of crucial re-supply teams. "When we went in we really didn't know what to expect," said Arismendi. "One of my most vivid memories were the oil fires everywhere. At one point, we were driving our convoys underneath the fire to get to the troops stationed in Baghdad."
Arismendi also commented on the reactions of the people as they made their way in the re-supply routes. "The people were mostly friendly. Some were very happy. You also had the feeling that some were really apprehensive. But we would give them food and water. What made the most impression on me was the lifestyle and living conditions these people were living in."
Arismendi joked about some offers that were made for the supplies they were handing out. "It was actually funny to see the people come out and offer us the Saddam money (the currency of Iraq still has the fallen dictator's image on it) to trade for things. The people were more surprised when we were giving food and water for nothing."
Arismendi noted that the heat in Iraq would reach well over 120 degrees by 7 a.m. each morning, included a 145 degree scorcher.
Surrounded by his grandparents during the presentation ceremony Alfano threw for him, the Lance Corporal said, "I just want to thank everybody for being so supportive of me and the troops. We had a source of pride doing what we were doing. We helped people and freed a nation. Hearing the support through the news from the people in the US and in letters meant a lot."
"We thank you for serving and being there for our country when we needed you. Your work helped people in need and assisted our soldiers as they did their job. We can't thank you enough," said Alfano.
As for the next few days he's back in Elmont, Arismendi noted, "I'm going to do a lot of sleeping, spending time with my family and hanging out with my brother, sister and grandparents."
Meanwhile, another Elmont Marine is getting ready to start his military career. Robert "Tito" Sotalin, who graduated from Elmont Memorial High School in 2000, is heading out for a year's deployment in Japan, where he will serve as a Corporal. Before his departure, Sotalin met with Alfano, who presented him with a citation in thanks for his service to his country.
Sotalin, a member of his high school wrestling team and a volunteer coach after his graduation, always felt the need to serve his country. After training in North Carolina for several months and a quick stop in Elmont, Sotalin said, "I'm proud to serve my country. A lot of people I know are in Iraq and they're doing a great job. I pray for them."
With a year away, Sotalin knows he will miss his friends and family but plans to keep in touch with them through e-mail, phone calls and letters. This past week, his family and friends held a going-away party for him where everyone wished him lots of luck in his new assignment. "I want to thank them for being there for me and supporting me," said Sotalin. "Japan will be an adventure but a lot of work."
Upon his return, Sotalin would like to continue his career in service with either the police or fire departments. While he is away, he will be missed by his brother Jason, who attends Gotham Avenue School, and by his sister Jennifer and parents Ady and Moses Sotalin.
