For some people, spending two straight years in Iraq would be a nightmare. For Suzanne Bott of Tucson, Ariz. it's a dream.
She loves it so much she's trying to sign on for a third year.
Bott, 51, a former cultural adviser to Pima County, Ariz., now has a similar role with a U.S. reconstruction team in Nineveh province in northern Iraq.
She has been overseas nearly constantly since January 2007 and is deeply involved in efforts to preserve some of the nation's most prized historic sites, including St. Elijah's Monastery, a Christian monastery built in the sixth century.
"It's been a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, which I have loved despite its challenges," Bott said in an e-mail interview.
Born in Tucson - her father was stationed at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, and both parents now live north of the city - Bott attended Smith Elementary School on the base.
The family left Tucson for years, with Bott returning in 2000 to work for the county as a cultural-resources-project manager during development of the Sonoran Desert Conservation Plan.
By then, she had degrees in geography, urban and regional planning and resource management. She also worked for the Sonoran Institute, and as an adjunct professor in the University of Arizona geography department. In 2006, Bott's brother, a Navy captain stationed in Iraq, suggested she join the U.S. rebuilding efforts there.
It seemed a good idea, she said, "especially because of my experience as part of a military family and knowledge of the military culture, and love of historic preservation."
Her first one-year tour with the U.S. Agency for International Development ended in January. Her current stint with the State Department ends in early 2009, and she's hoping to spend a third year.
Bott said the experience has given her appreciation of Iraqi culture, and a deep respect for the efforts of U.S. military personnel, with whom she works hand-in-hand.
"They are the best military men and women in the world," said Bott. "I cannot say enough about their exceptional expertise, courage, camaraderie and dedication."
E-mail Carol Ann Alaimo at calaimo(at)azstarnet.com. For more stories visit scrippsnews.com
Must credit Arizona Daily Star
Post new comment