Yet the mission goes on.

Groarke’s work includes programs in health care, humanitarian assistance, local governance, economic growth, education, agriculture and infrastructure. Among the largest contractors he oversees is Bechtel, responsible for infrastructure reconstruction including electricity.

Despite the countless setbacks brought on by the insurgency, Groarke reports much has been accomplished. “Shortly after the war ended, we had most Iraqi ministries up and running. Since then we’ve repaired over 2,300 schools, printed 8.7 million textbooks and trained 32,000 teachers.”

Water, sewage and electricity have been restored to pre-war levels, he continues. Three million Iraqi children have been vaccinated and 500,000 tons of grain has helped feed the Iraqi people. Major roads and bridges have been repaired and community associations have been formed to promote democracy, he writes, his distinct personal pride of America’s rebuilding efforts appearing to shine through even the impersonal look of a distant e-mail.

Yet, for those like Groarke on the front line, the mission has been anything but a piece of cake. The career diplomat concedes he’s not thrilled working in a combat zone. But he finds the work meaningful and challenging – though it’s a 24/7 environment that’s not for everyone.