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1. What was your reaction when you first learned you had been chosen to be a Roman legionary?
I was still not sure what I was getting into. I thought that we were
going to be extras for a larger production, but the director and producers
later informed us that we were the main acts. I was pretty happy to be
involved with a TV production. I like being in front of a camera.
2. What do you believe was your biggest triumph as a Roman legionary?
My biggest triumph was kicking the Brits' butts in the storming of the fort, on their own soil (Newcastle)! In all seriousness, we all got along very well -- the British and the Americans. But I am so competitive and I like to win at anything. I was also pretty happy with us getting through that march with all the gear, horrible shoes and crappy weather conditions.
3. What was your lowest moment as a Roman legionary?
Sleeping with four guys in a space that is two feet smaller than a queen size
bed.
4. Overall, how would you rate your performance as a Roman legionary?
I give myself an "A." I'm not trying to be arrogant, but I was able to keep a
smile and still joke around throughout the bad weather conditions, the
horrible sleeping conditions and the lack of proper amenities. In fact, I
give our whole group an "A" just because it was such a fun time and everyone
had a positive attitude.
5. If you had to choose between daily life as a soldier or as a Roman legionary, which would you choose?
I would pick my life as an airman in the Air Force. Though some of the
things are the same now as they were in the past, I am so impressed with
our military technology. Also, the Air Force takes care of our people better than the Romans did. The last place I was deployed, as an officer I was given my own room. I did not have to share a bed with four guys!
6. Has your experience as a Roman legionary affected or changed any aspect of your career as a soldier?
I am a little more famous around my base and work now because of my time on
the TV. I even signed some autographs for a couple of kids! The
experience changed my perception about the way the Roman legionary performed
his duties. You watch movies like "Gladiator" and expect the same thing.
The truth is much more eye-opening. I don't think I saw Russell Crowe
sharing a bed with any other guy.
7. Did your experience as a Roman legionary live up to your expectations?
I was not sure what to expect, so I did not have any pre-conceived notions
about it. However, the whole experience was of the utmost quality. The
most important thing is that we had fun and enjoyed it all the same. I came
away with a lot of respect for not only the Roman military, but also
filmmakers. I never realized how many times you had to film a scene to get
it just right. We filmed that straight line walk at the beginning of the
show three times! I am not complaining, it was just an eye opening
experience. I just wish the whole experience was a little longer.
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