A Republican representative in the state Assembly returned to Wisconsin Sunday to continue his work at the state Capitol after a nine-month, U.S. Army Reserves tour of duty in Iraq.
Rep. Mark Gundrum, R-New Berlin, spent most of this year in Iraq after training in the United States, totaling to a full year away from his family and community. He said it “feels fantastic” to be back home and he looks forward to continuing to serve the people of his district.
The political landscape and economy have changed substantially since he left Wisconsin, according to Gundrum. At the time, the Republicans were in control of the state Assembly. Control shifted to the Democrats in this month’s election.
“I much preferred my own party being in the majority, because you can pass the things you believe in,” Gundrum said. “Now we are much more on the defense, to stop bad things from being passed by the opposition, but that’s the reality.”
Gundrum said he expected some of his bills from last session to be reintroduced now that he is home. Most of the bills have to do with criminal justice issues. He will also continue to deal with problems as they arise which affect his district.
According to Gundrum, his time in Iraq will make him a better representative to his district. He acknowledges that it has caused a change in him.
“It has improved my patience,” Gundrum said. “So I can accomplish important objectives and not be in such a rush, but stay the course and see it through until the end.”
While serving in Iraq, Gundrum was a Senior Rule of Law Adviser for a multinational corps, which included the Iraqi government and the U.S. Embassy. He worked with government officials at the national level, including judges and members of parliament.
According to Gundrum, he worked to establish rule of law and encourage the Iraqi people to adhere to the law instead of acting on prejudices.
Tim Stumm, spokesperson for Democratic Gov. Jim Doyle, commented on the governor’s appreciation for Gundrum’s service in the armed forces.
“The governor appreciates the great sacrifices made by every serviceman and servicewoman who serve our state and country,” Stumm said in an e-mail. “Their selflessness, humility, and patriotism go beyond the call of any citizen and these brave individuals have helped make our country stronger and safer.”
Sen. Mary Lazich, R-New Berlin, commented in a blog about her excitement over Gundrum’s safe return home.
“I am thrilled that my friend and Assemblyman has arrived at Mitchell International, having completed his tour of duty in Iraq and will now be able to spend the holidays with his wonderful family,” Lazich said.
Gundrum will now return to work with Lazich and other state legislators. He did not offer any specific legislators that he looks forward to working with again but said he is excited to work with everyone who will help him advance the objectives of his district.
