Soldier Paints T-Wall Barrier to Boost Morale and Showcase Artistic Talents

Photo By Staff Sgt. Mahsima Alkamooneh | U.S. Army Sgt. Josh Paavola, an automated logistical specialist assigned to Headquarters Support Company, Headquarters and Headquarters Battalion, 34th Infantry Division, stands for a photo in front of the Battalion’s painted T-barrier in the U.S. Central Command’s area of operations, Sept. 4, 2024. Paavola designed and painted the barrier as part of an Army tradition to commemorate the unit’s deployment. (U.S. Army photo by Staff Sgt. Mahsima Alkamooneh)  

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09.25.2024

Story by Sgt. Abbygail Heinen 

34th Red Bull Infantry Division

U.S. Army Sgt. Josh Paavola, a movement noncommissioned officer assigned to Headquarters Support Company, Headquarters and Headquarters Battalion, 34th Infantry Division, changes a routine concrete barrier into a canvas while mobilized in support of Operation Spartan Shield in the Central command area of responsibility.
When the call went out for a volunteer to design and paint a T-wall barrier to boost morale and increase esprit de corps, Paavola eagerly stepped forward. Paavola saw an opportunity to make a positive impact on his fellow soldiers through art. His design incorporated iconic elements of the Red Bulls, the Matadors and Task Force Spartan, uniting the symbols of his team visually.
Paavola spent four nights, outside of his normal working hours, meticulously painting the T-barrier with a design that represented the unit. A projector malfunction partway through the project added to the challenge; he relied on his freehand skills to complete the design.
"The process overall went smoothly," Paavola said. "But when the projector stopped working halfway through, I had to rely on my freehand skills to complete the Task Force Spartan logo, which was a very intricate portion of the wall."
Paavola’s hard work has not gone unnoticed. His art has become a source of pride for Soldiers assigned to HHBN, 34th ID, adding a touch of home to the deployed environment.
Paavola's love for art began at a young age, inspired by his parents, he continues to explore new creative avenues, from playing the violin to learning bookbinding.
While serving in the military, Paavola has had the opportunity to expand his horizons and do things that are different from his civilian job as a Certified Nursing Assistant. He earned his certification during a COVID-19 response activation in 2020 and is currently pursuing an associate's degree in Surgical Technology.
“Make your army career your own,” Paavola states, “Take advantage of every opportunity that comes your way and say yes to every school and opportunity that arises, and it will help you grow both personally and professional” Paavola advises younger soldiers.
Through his dedication and talent, Paavola has left a lasting artistic legacy. His story serves as a reminder to all Soldiers to embrace their unique skills and talents and make a positive impact on the world around them.

• Date Taken: 09.25.2024
• Date Posted: 12.08.2024 14:45
• Story ID: 486279
• Location: (UNDISCLOSED LOCATION)