Judge heads to Iraq as a proud Marine

Many people express sympathy for the people of Iraq and sincerely hope that the U.S.-led forces will actually be able to help those people rebuild their country and restore their way of life. Some go so far as to donate money, or send food or clothing, while others pray for them daily.

But one Utah woman is offering the people of Iraq something unique — herself.

Kim Adamson is giving up her job, selling her home and risking her life to go into the most unstable parts of Iraq with the Marine Corps 4th Civil Affairs Group this July as part of Iraqi Freedom II. The more stunning part of her sacrifice to those who don't know her may be that her job was justice court judge for Salt Lake County until she resigned last March to join the 4th CAG.

Adamson doesn't even need to work, let alone risk her life for people she's never met. She is independently wealthy and sits on the Westminster College Alumni Board.

"Honor, courage and commitment," she said referring to the Marine Corps core values. "I want to live those 24/7. They're not just words on a piece of paper."

Her reserve unit will replace the 3rd CAG, which is currently working with the civilians of Iraq on issues such as power, water and roads.

"I've been trying to get in this unit for awhile," she said. "I joined this unit right off of active duty knowing it was going to be deployed."

Her unit will help communities rebuild schools, solve transportation issues and figure out how to get clean water flowing.

"It can be just setting up a soccer match," she said, smiling at home in her Holladay kitchen. "Our goal is to improve the quality of life for the Iraqi people by building up all the infrastructure around them."

Adamson is not afraid to go to Iraq but realizes her assignment will be dangerous.

"I'm excited," she said. "This is my first deployment overseas. . . . I just have a warrior spirit. You've just got to be careful, vigilant."

Her friend for more than 25 years, Sue Bailess, points out that risk is always all around.

"It's risky just stepping outside your door," said Bailess, who met Adamson when they were both working as police officers in the 1970s. "I don't like the fact that she's going, but if I could go I would . . . You look at her from the outside and think she's nuts, but if you know her, you know she's just trying to make sure we live in a safer world. She's devoted to a cause, and she's truly inspiring."