Soldiers Switch Roles With Wives For Competition

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FORT CAMPBELL, Ky. - Thousands of soldiers and their families at Fort Campbell are getting ready for another tour of duty in Afghanistan next year. Troops are enjoying every last moment with their loved ones especially their spouses.

Tuesday on post, a special group of 101st soldiers got to share their work experience with their wives.

Troops from the 1st Squadron 33rd Cavalry Regiment took part in a grueling test called a "spur ride." They marched for nearly 15 miles, did weapons drills and completed an obstacle course.

Their reward was watching their spouses complete their own version of the spur ride. The event was designed to give wives an idea and an appreciation for what their husbands do each day.

The spouses completed an obstacle course, learned to clear a room, threw hand grenades and finished several physical fitness tests.

"It's hard I didn't think he went through this much, so extra feet rubbing and quality time now," said soldier's wife Nicole Maldonado.

As the wives worked, soldiers tended to their children and cheered their loved ones on.

"I don't get to see my son often, I'm at work quite a bit, so it's a good chance to spend some time with family," said Capt. Allen Coones, 101st soldier.

Soldiers with the 1st squadron will be deployed to Afghanistan sometime next year.