By Cpl. Christopher A. Calvert
Third Army/ARCENT Public Affairs
AL UDEID AIR BASE, Qatar – Command Sgt. Maj. John D. Fourhman, Third Army/ARCENT command sergeant major and a Columbus, Ga., native, visited troops at Al Udeid Air Base and Camp As Sayliyah here Sept. 1.
During his visit, Fourhman expressed his gratitude while handing out more than 150 coins to Third Army service members for their hard work and dedication.
He then took time to speak with troops and senior leadership about issues which impacted their morale and operational efficiency, while also addressing the importance of continuing their education.
“It’s very important for soldiers to continue their education while deployed,” Fourhman said. “It’s of the upmost importance we provide soldiers with a quiet place to study and do homework, as well as affordable internet. Even if they decide not to re-enlist, obtaining a degree is something soldiers will always have to help them in the future.”
Sgt. 1st Class Kenneth Jones, 1177th Transportation Company, Ga. National Guard and a LaGrange, Ga., native, stated that future renovations are in the works to help assist troops with their educational needs.
“Right now we do our homework, but it’s not in the most conducive place to do so,” Jones added. “After we finish changing the layout here, soldiers will have a much more quiet and effective place to study and take online college courses.”
After meeting several hundred service members, Fourhman took the opportunity to visit children who were participating in Stryker Day; an event where troops had the opportunity to bring their families to work, which culminated in a Stryker Interim Armored Vehicle ride for children who attended.
As his visit came to an end, Fourhman reminded each and every service member the importance of their daily operations.
“When you wake up in the morning, don’t wonder if what you’re doing is making a difference,” Fourhman explained. “No matter what your military occupational specialty is, your day-in and day-out hard work is helping to complete the Third Army mission.”
Third Army’s commitment to both the well-being of its soldiers, as well as the service members of partner nations remains a priority. Through morale-building events such as Fourhman’s visit to Qatar, Third Army is helping to inspire, educate and inform service members, the strength of our nation.