Sep 24, 2005 8:42 am US/Central
Minnesota Mayor Deploys For Third Time
by Nelson Garcia
Victoria, Minn. (WCCO) ―
In the city of Victoria, Minn., there's a man who makes sure everything in town works.
City Administrator Steve Sarvi is packing his office for the third time due to deployment. This time, he will join fellow members of the National Guard fighting the war in Iraq.
"It is hard to leave again," said Sarvi, an infantry platoon sergeant. "It feels like I just did this and then I realize that I did just do this."
Just a year ago he returned from Kosovo, where he handled riots and city security.
Now, he prepares to lead his troops into battle for 18 months.
"This is a tough mission," Sarvi said. "So, I felt as though I needed to step forward to lead them forward."
His coworkers recognize the danger Sarvi has consistently confronted.
"It's an extremely dangerous job and certainly you worry and do all the praying that you can," said Tom Gray, Victoria's building official.
When Sarvi returns he plans on resuming his job as city administrator and said he is very thankful. His position will be held and the difference between his National Guard check and his current salary will be paid.
Still, it does not make leaving any easier.
"It's tough," Sarvi said of leaving his family. "They're at that age: 14, 11 and seven."
Last time he left, his son wrote, "I Love you Dad" on a white board. That was three years ago and the message still remains.
And his co-worker took care of his plant named "Fred." Sarvi plans to see both when he comes back.
Sgt. Sarvi is also the Mayor of Watertown, Minn., where he lives. He is stepping down from that office which he has held since 2000.
(© MMV, CBS Broadcasting, Inc. All Rights Reserved.)
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