Color guards provide uniformed tradition, Soldier development

Courtesy Photo | On Jan. 9, Sgt Maj Louis Tinsley relinquishes the position of 72nd Training Support Brigade Command Sergeant Major to Sgt Maj James Herbert during a change of responsibility ceremony held on the headquarters parade field of Fort Dix, N.J. (U.S. Army Photo by Staff Sgt. Daniel Yarnall)  

01.21.2010

Courtesy Story

USASA, Fort Dix

By Sgt. Chris McCann

Military organizations have carried flags or standards since armies were first formed; Japanese samurai and even Native American 'dog soldiers' carried banners that their units rallied around during battle. Flags and unit guidons play a central role in ceremonies, but the Soldiers that carry them often go unnoticed.

Army Sgt. 1st Class Scott Arispe, a Headquarters and Headquarters Battery, 72nd Field Artillery Brigade financial manager from Boston, carried the United States flag during a change-of-responsibility for a brigade command sergeant major ceremony Jan. 9 on Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, N.J. It was the third time he led a color guard in a year.

Arispe said he enjoys being involved in the color guard. "It's based on the Army Values; I'm a true believer in that. I make it a point to know the policies and procedures, and do things right. And I love doing it, even if it's nineteen degrees out," he said last week.

"It's just selfless service. I see it as an honor to represent the brigade in a positive light," Arispe continued.

Army Sgt. Melissa Wong, who serves with Operation Warrior Trainer and is a part of the New York Army National Guard's 222nd Chemical Company based in Brooklyn served on the color guard for the first time at the ceremony.

"It was interesting and very fun," said Wong. "I'd never done it before, and it was pretty cool, marching with a weapon. It was a good experience and I'd do it again — especially when the weather is a little warmer," she said, laughing.

Army Staff Sgt. April Cashdollar, of Hampton Township, Pa., who serves as a host- nation police operations support trainer with the 2nd Training Support Battalion, 312th Regiment, 72nd FA Brigade, has served on the color guard before with Arispe.

"The first sergeant asked if I would be willing to do this one, and I said yes, and I enjoyed it, despite the cold." said Cashdollar. "I definitely consider it an honor to be picked," she said.

In addition to his regular duties and serving on various details, Arispe said serving on details is something that builds Soldiers values.

"It helps develop them so that when I leave, they will carry the torch," he said.

• Date Taken: 01.21.2010
• Date Posted: 01.21.2010 12:14
• Story ID: 44228