Staff Sgt. Christian Panquerne is a dedicated soldier who enjoys the variety his military occupational specialty, or MOS, provides him.

"It's part of combat arms," said Panquerne as he sat in his living quarters at Camp Taji, Iraq.  "I enjoy the infantry, and I also enjoy the engineering - the blowing stuff up - part of the job in particular," added the soldier assigned to the 38th Engineer Company.

A combat engineer holds the MOS of 21B.  They are sometimes referred to as "sappers."  This term has it roots in the American Revolution, where the engineers who dug tunnels and trenches used saplings to keep the walls from collapsing.

It's a historical connection that attracted Panquerne.

"I've always wanted to be a soldier," he explained.  "I wanted the adventure. I wanted to see the world. I wanted to do something different, and I love the camaraderie with these guys," continued the native of Louisiana.

Combat engineers focus primarily on demolitions, mine setting and removal, and the setting up and removal of obstacles.  In Iraq, much of their time is taken up with either finding and destroying improvised explosive devices or leveling buildings used by insurgents.

"Who wouldn't want a job where you can blow stuff up?" asked Panquerne with a smile as others in the area gave their approval.

Soldiers who choose this military occupational specialty can expect to spend approximately a month at a basic demolition course held at Fort Leonard Wood, Mo.  There they will learn about all types of demolitions, mines and obstacles.

"They will learn a great deal; this is a tough and hard job," said Panquerne.

In this MOS, it is vital to possess the physical strength to work for long periods of time without necessities.

"Our missions are long, hot and dangerous," said Panquerne.  "And because we work so long and hard under such circumstances, we like to think that we lead the way," he added.

Individuals thinking about pursuing this MOS should talk to their first sergeant.

"It is rewarding work; we make sure that the way is safer for other soldiers," said Panquerne.  "And the camaraderie in this company is incredible," he added.