Director of Operations Prepares for Second Tour in Iraq

"Lt. Scott Brunnenmeyer of Dallas accepts a gift from Girl Scouts Marissa and Melissa O’Brien of Troop 4280 of Warrior Run. Brunnenmeyer and 84 others from the Pennsylvania National Guard’s 109th Field Artillery will soon deploy to Iraq”
- Fred Adams photos/The Times Leader

Sundance Vacations is honored to employ Director of Operations, Scott Brunnenmeyer. Scott is preparing for his second tour in Iraq. His first stops are Mississippi and Louisiana for a few months of Pre-Iraq training. “It has been an honor working with everyone. I appreciate all of the hard work that everyone has done, especially during the last couple of weeks while I have been preparing to leave for deployment,” said Brunnenmeyer.

Brunnenmeyer and his unit will be supporting part of the 56 Stryker Brigade. It is the first Stryker Brigade in the National Guard throughout the country. Brunnenmeyer’s unit is third in the whole army to field the M777 A2 Towed Howitzer System. Most artillery officers when deployed act as military police, guards, or infantry companies. “Although we may be involved in some of these activities and kicking in doors, it is very exciting to be one of the only guard units to deploy as an active artillery unit in a combat zone,” comments Brunnenmeyer. The last time the PA Guard 109 FA was deployed as an artillery mission was in WWII, where they had an active role in the Battle of the Bulge.

Although Scott will be leaving Sundance Vacations for over a year, his position as Director of Operations will be held for his return. In the interim, Carrie Dodge will be directing the Midwest event operations and Jennifer Garibay will be directing the East Coast. “I feel confident Carrie and Jennifer will do a great job,” stated Director of Marketing Chip Kilby. Both VP of Marketing Joe Molitoris and Chip Kilby will also closely monitor and oversee operations for the whole Permission Marketing Department in Scott’s absence.

Before returning to Mississippi on September 15th, Brunnenmeyer hopes to take a short break and relax. Brunnenmeyer would like to visit his grandparents in Atlanta, GA as well as his brother in Boston. He would also like to spend as much time with his family and friends as possible. “Getting support from everyone at home is a huge help. I’m going to miss Sundance Vacations, especially John and Tina Dowd. I thank them for their support, as I prepare for my second deployment with the company. I hope to hear from everyone and I look forward to seeing you all next September,” stated Brunnenmeyer.

Scott’s camaraderie will be missed greatly throughout the office, along with that loud voice and bright smile. Scott stared in our 401K video, so really desperate co-workers can be reminded of his bright smile at any time by re-watching his acting debut. “Scott is not only a coworker, but a good friend. I will miss him and say a prayer for his safety. He is a true American hero in every sense of the statement and I am proud to call him my friend. God bless and come home safe!” exclaimed Director of Marketing Chip Kilby. Brunnenmeyer’s deployment date to Iraq is set for some time in January. By: Amanda Miller, Communications Director, Sundance Vacations.