KANDAHAR, Afghanistan – To commemorate being in a combat zone for 100 days, the 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division held a shoulder sleeve insignia, former wartime service ceremony at Camp Nathan Smith, Sept. 11.
“As we reflect today on the events 10 years ago that changed our lives, I want to thank you for your service and dedication,” said John S. Kolasheski, the commander of 2nd BCT, 4th Inf. Div. “You are among the few who chose to serve the nation in the Army.”
The ceremony not only honored soldiers with the 4th Inf. Div. combat patch, that they will wear on their right shoulder but also served as a reminder of 9/11.
“Be they the victims of 9/11 or our fallen comrades, the combat patch you now wear should serve as a reminder of the sacrifice of war,” said Lt. Col. John Cook, the commander of 1st Squadron, 10th Cavalry Regiment, 2nd BCT, 4th Inf. Div.
For some soldiers this is their first deployment to a combat zone and to have the ceremony on the 10th anniversary of 9/11 had even more meaning.
This patch feels pretty good and it makes me realize and appreciate the things we are doing here, said Pfc. Johnathan Hawkins, the commander’s driver for Troop D, 1st Sqdn., 10th Cav. Reg.
“I was in high school when 9/11 happened,” said Capt. Heather Jantsch, the executive officer for Headquarters and Headquarters Troop, 2nd BCT, 4th Inf. Div. “I joined the Army partially because of 9/11 and so it means a lot that on the 10th year anniversary I am here in Afghanistan serving my country.”
While addressing his soldiers after the patch ceremony Capt. Richard Ferrell, the commander of HHT, 2nd BCT, 4th Inf. Div. said, “Think about the last 10 years every time you put on this uniform.”