Soldier likes being a role model to his kids

GLENWOOD SPRINGS, Colo. — Operation Vacation is a program that brings to the Roaring Fork Valley military personnel who have fought overseas. Bob Johnson, a Realtor for Vicki Lee Green Realtors, in Glenwood Springs, coordinated with the Army to create the program that hosts soldiers in Glenwood Springs. Local businesses have donated dinners, entertainment, outdoor activities, lodging and transportation for Operation Vacation participants. For more information about the program, visit www.operationvacation.org.



Name: Sgt. 1st Class George Apollo

Age: 32

Branch of the military and division: Army, Third squadron, 61st Regiment, Second Brigade Combat Team, Second Infantry Division

Family: Wife, Kerstin; children, Stephanie, 15, and Max, 6; and baby boy, Noah, due June 2

When and why did you join the Army?: 1992; It goes back to history with my dad, who was in the Argentine Army

Where have you been deployed?: Honduras, Bosnia, Germany, Macedonia and Korea

When you were being deployed, what did you miss most about home?: The freedom of doing whatever you want, and family.

What's your favorite food?: Spanish food

What do you like to do in your free time?: I'm into various sports - basketball, baseball, football, go-carting

What do you like most about being a dad?: The leadership role, trying to be a good role model

What are you looking forward to doing while in Glenwood Springs?: Just basically sightseeing and relaxing