BAGHDAD - After a morning brigade run, Soldiers from 1st Advise and Assist Brigade, 3rd Infantry Division crowded into the dining facility on Contingency Operating Station Falcon June 14 shortly before dinner time to celebrate 235 years of U.S. Army history.
United States Forces-Iraq commanding General Ray Odierno joined them and spoke to about their significance in the Army’s history.
“When we think about the Army birthday, we think about history, and we think about the historical nature of our Army; what has gone before us, and that our Army is bigger than us as individuals,” said Odierno. “It’s about what we have accomplished starting back in 1775 to today. What makes it even more important being here is that really, you are a part of that history. When we celebrate Army birthdays in the future, people will talk about you, your service, your participation, and the streamers you have added to the Army colors.”
Odierno attributed the enjoyment of his career in the Army to the many Soldiers who he has led.
“I’m proud to have served the Army for over 34 years, and the reason I have served that long is because of you,” he said. “It’s because of people that I got to know; the people I have been associated with, who have energized me every single day to be the best that I can. It’s about being a part of something that’s bigger than yourself.”
Sgt. 1st Class Richard Rolls, a 1/3 AAB master gunner and coordinator for the event, said the Army stands on the shoulders of its Soldiers.
“We’ve come a long way, and [we’ve] developed into a great organization that can execute any mission our nation gives us,” said Rolls. “I’ve been in 19 years, and I’ve seen a lot of technical advances in my career as well as Soldiers getting better at their training.”