7th SB begins logistics mission

Photo By Sgt. Richard Gilbert | Col. Mark Barbosa, 7th Sustainment Brigade Commander and Lesly T. McCorkle, 7th SB command sergeant major unveil the colors during the Transfer of Authority Ceremony in Camp Adder, Iraq.  

TALLIL AIR BASE, IRAQ

11.12.2007

Story by Spc. Richard Gilbert 

316th Sustainment Command (Expeditionary)

Spc. RJ Gilbert
7th Sustainment Brigade Public Affairs Office

CAMP ADDER, Iraq — A transfer of authority ceremony took place, Nov. 4, between the 82nd Sustainment Brigade and the 7th Sustainment Brigade at the Ziggurat.

This event heralded the official beginning of the 7th SB's "resolute warriors" duties in Operation Iraqi Freedom 06-08, while the "paratroopers" of the 82nd SB relinquished command and bade farewell.

The 7th SB commander reminded the Soldiers and onlookers why Soldiers do their duty.

"We do it because we are told to do it. We do it to be a part of something bigger. We do it because we are making a difference," said Col. Mark Barbosa, 7th SB commander.

"It's like the one word on the state flag of Rhode Island which says, 'hope.' I've been all over the world and I don't care what anybody says. I've seen it. We provide hope to those in Iraq and around the world who haven't had hope for many decades," said Barbosa.

Barbosa also spoke lauding the 82nd SB for their impeccable performance in Iraq and their assistance during the transition, while promising to maintain the consummate standard of professionalism.

"I can't imagine it being more thorough or professional. I know your team put many hours in this and I feel very comfortable that it just could not have been done any better. You have built an incredible reputation across the theater; and those efforts, I assure you, will continue on my watch," said Barbosa.

During their tour in Iraq that lasted from September 2006 to November 2007, the 82nd SB drove over 2.3 million miles, delivered over 33.8 million gallons of JP8, 10.5 million gallons of DF-2, and 1.7 million gallons of MOGAS in support of MND-C/CS/SE customers. In regards to munitions the 82nd delivered some 3,200 STONs. They also planned and coordinated 5 aerial deliveries and coordinated for 512 detention containers to Kuwait, which helped reduce costs by over $155,000.

With the retiring of the 82nd SB's colors their commander spoke reverently and retrospectively about the job his brigade had performed in this Global War on Terrorism.

"In 24 years of service I have never been so proud as to stand in the ranks of such an 'All American' Team," said Col. Stephen R. Lyons. "Comprised of units and soldiers from across the United State and bound by ideals that move us beyond our diverse backgrounds and lift us above our own interests and inspired by a common desire to defeat tyranny and oppression," said Lyons.

• Date Taken: 11.12.2007
• Date Posted: 11.12.2007 14:05
• Story ID: 13818
• Location: TALLIL AIR BASE, IQ