Telescope Casual sales rep to report to Iraq

Former representative to temporarily fill Navy Reservist's position

Casual Living Staff -- Casual Living, 10/22/2010 9:07:00 AM

Granville, N.Y. — Telescope Casual Furniture announced that Phil Fowler, its sales representative for New Jersey, Delaware and Eastern Pennsylvania has been called to active duty in Iraq for a 50-week tour.

Phil Fowler and Bob Urlwin

Beginning in December, Capt. Fowler will serve as a senior advisor to the Iraqi Ministry of Defense Joint Headquarters. In this position, he will be providing advice, support and coaching to the senior Iraqi Armed Forces Staff. He will be based in Bagdad, Iraq.
"While we and our customers will miss Phil, we are very proud and supportive of his service to our country," Telescope CEO Kathy Juckett said in announcing Fowler's leave of absence. "He has been an asset to Telescope over the last five years by supporting our customers and growing sales in his territory. We will welcome his return to the company when his tour of duty is completed."
Fowler has been a sales representative with Telescope Casual Furniture for five years succeeding his father-in-law, Bob Urlwin. Urlwin, a 47-year veteran of Telescope's sales force who retired in 2008, will temporarily fill Fowler's position until his return in December 2011.

Capt. Phil Fowler and his family.

"We have an excellent temporary replacement with Phil's father-in-law, Bob Urlwin, to serve our customers while Phil is gone," Juckett said. "Bob retired from the company just two years ago. He is a seasoned professional, who is both familiar with Telescope's products and high-touch customer service. We know our customers will welcome Bob back into their stores during this period. To the extent possible, Bob and Phil will work together via e-mail to insure continuity of customer service."

Having to leave families and work lives behind is a common concern for military members serving overseas, Fowler said. "It's a comfort for me to know that Bob will be watching over the business for me while I'm away," he said.
Fowler received his commission through Navy ROTC at Vanderbilt University. He served aboard the USS Balimore, where he qualified as a submarine warfare officer and nuclear engineer officer, completing two Special Operations patrols and one Depot Modernization Period. In 1993, he transferred to the Navy Reserve where he has held various leadership positions in submarine, surface warfare and joint commands.
Fowler was promoted to U.S. Navy Captain in December 2009. Most recently, he worked in the Pentagon for the Chief of Naval Operations manning and training
the Logistics Crisis Action Cell.