Photo By Sgt. Derek Kuhn | French service members stand at attention during a ceremony commemorating Bastille Day...... read more read more
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BAGRAM AIR FIELD, Afghanistan — Freedom is a bond that unites the U.S., Afghanistan and the coalition of partner nations. As service members of each nation sacrifice to secure Afghanistan, it is important to remember those who have walked the path of freedom before us. Lessons learned from the past may allow future generations to enjoy the freedoms many hold dear today.
It is in that spirit of brotherhood that Combined Joint Task Force-82 celebrated Bastille Day at Bagram Air Field with a ceremony led by members of the French military in the morning and a celebration later in the evening on July 14.
Bastille Day is the equivalent of America's 4th of July and marks the day in 1789 when the French Revolution was triggered by citizens storming the prison-fortress of Bastille.
Parallels can be made between the French struggle for independence and the American Revolution. In fact, France has been a U.S. ally since the Revolutionary War and that long-term partnership was remembered by many in attendance.
"I am absolutely proud to be here for the French National Day especially with the 82nd Airborne Division," said French Army Lt. Col. Pierre Verborg, Regional Command Capital French Liaison Officer. "The history of the 82nd Airborne Division is clearly linked with France since the drop over Normandy in 1944."
Bastille Day presents an opportunity to reflect on the past.
French Marine Lt. Col Jen Christope Berry, Liaison Officer for Task Force Kurragan said, Bastille Day is a great day for freedom and the lesson of never standing for oppression is applicable today in Afghanistan.
Others believe the ceremony and celebration is a good way to strengthen bonds and thank French service members for the contributions being made by their soldiers.
"It is important to commemorate France," said Army Maj. Mike Hubbard, operations planner for CJTF-82 Headquarters. "[France] is one of our key allies and contributing nations in Afghanistan. [They] have one of the premiere armies in the world."
The sacrifices made by those serving in Afghanistan are great, but some believe Bastille Day is an occasion to reaffirm their commitment to making Afghanistan better for all of its citizens.
"The conflict is very hard," said Verborg. "Our Soldiers' blood is spilled every day, but it is very important to remember that we are bringing peace and stability to this country."
Still the day took on a lighter note, bringing old allies closer together.
"I feel like part of the world village [by serving in Afghanistan]," said Verborg. France like the U.S. is a country that has a history of enduring many wars which teaches the values of peace and freedom, he said.
In Paris a large military parade takes place during the day and some might have preferred to be there, but appreciate the reasons for being here.
Hubbard said he would rather be there watching the parade, but he is proud to serve here with his French counterparts.
Verborg echoed Hubbard's sentiments.
"I am proud to be here," said Verborg. "I am a Soldier; it is my duty."
| Date Taken: | 07.16.2009 |
| Date Posted: | 07.16.2009 10:54 |
| Story ID: | 36446 |
| Location: | BAGRAM AIR FIELD, AF |
| Web Views: | 363 |
| Downloads: | 352 |
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