Police officer serving in Iraq talks with family in Tulsa

Wednesday, December 21st 2005, 10:41 am

By: News On 6

An early Christmas present for a Tulsa Police officer who is serving in Iraq. The News on 6 arranged for Carmen Brown to talk to her husband and kids through a satellite interview Wednesday in our studios. They hadn't seen her since November of 2004 when she was deployed.

News on 6 crime reporter Lori Fullbright was there for the reunion. She may be Officer Carmen Brown in Tulsa and Captain Carmen Brown in the Army, but first and foremost, she's a wife and mother, who was delighted to hear the voices of her family.

Carmen Brown: â€œI Carrigan."
Carrigan Brown: "Hi mama."
Carmen Brown: "I love you."
Carrigan Brown: "I love you."

Carrigan was only 10 months old when her mama was deployed. Carmen missed her daughter's first birthday and is going to miss her second one. A lot of life happens in 18 months.

Clyde Brown, Junior: "You're gonna miss my basketball season."
Carmen Brown: "I know, but, I hope your dad will record them all because I'll have a lot of time to watch them when I get back."
Clyde Brown, Jr: "Okay."

Carmen isn't the only one making sacrifices, her husband has been juggling work, children and activities.

Clyde Brown: "I'm realizing more and more what's involved and I do need you home." Carmen Brown: â€œYou're doing a wonderful job. I don't even know if I can do as good as you. I'm looking forward to re-connecting with Carrigan to see if I can do as good as you."
Clyde Brown: "I don't have father of the year award yet, so I don't know how good I'm doing."
Carmen Brown: "You're my father of the year."

Carmen is ready to make up for lost time with her family, eat at her favorite restaurant, Waffle House and get back to her job as a police officer. Here or away, her family couldn't be prouder.

Clyde Brown: "We're really thankful for what you're doing for the country. Most people can even imaging what it's like over there, including myself. And I know this is personal for us, but, we love you and appreciate you."
Carmen Brown: "Thank you."

Carmen is with the 23rd AG Postal Company, which means she helps distribute mail to the troops. She should be home in March.