Name: Paul Aaron Burnside

Age: 36

Place of birth: Schuyler County, Illinois

Branch of the military: Army, active duty

Family: Liz Burnside, 28, daughters: Allie Burnside, 4, Emily Burnside, due on Dec. 23.

When did you join the Army?

Joined the Army on April 3, 2003 to assist in the War on Terror.

Where have you been deployed?

Been deployed twice to Iraq and going again in Feb.

What was your favorite place you’ve been stationed?

Ft. Carson is the best duty station in the U.S.

What do you like to do in your spare time?

Enjoy taking trips to mountains with family in the Jeep.

As a child, what did you want to be when you grew up?

Always wanted to experience being a soldier like my father and grandfather.

Best piece of advice you’ve ever received:

Work to live, don’t live to work.

What’s your most memorable military experience?

My first deployment to Iraq was undoubtedly my most memorable experience in the army. I had just completed basic training and A.I.T. then moved to Fort Carson where I trained for 45 days before joining my unit in Iraq. I first experienced uncertainty and fear which was soon replaced with confidence and a strong sense of camaraderie with the other soldiers in my squad. The bonds I’ve developed with my battle buddies at that time are unlike any other.

What are you looking forward to doing while in Glenwood Springs?

I’m not sure what all Glenwood Springs has to offer, but I am looking forward to spending a little time in the hot springs and maybe flying over the Rocky Mountains.

What are your future plans in the military?

I’ll soon be deploying to Iraq again, where I am considering re-enlisting for the second time. I would have 14 more years before I could retire with 20 years of service.