Resolute Warriors re-enlist downrange

7th Transportation Brigade (Expeditionary)
Story by Spc. Krista Payne

Date: 11.02.2011
Posted: 11.03.2011 05:25
News ID: 79494

KANDAHAR AIRFIELD, Afghanistan - The 418th Transportation Company, 1297th Combat Sustainment Support Battalion, Task Force Resolute, re-enlisted 23 soldiers on Kandahar Airfield, Afghanistan, Nov. 2.

Together, the soldiers enlisted for a total of 106 years and received approximately $35,000 in bonuses as a group. For 12 of the soldiers, it was their first re-enlistment. Five choose to re-enlist for duty station stabilization.

The oath of enlistment, which is a promise to support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies and obey the orders of the President of the United States, was administered by Lt. Col. Weedon Gallagher, the 1297th CSSB commander.

“Today, we are seeing 23 combat proven soldiers standing up to continue to defend our nation,” said Gallagher. “Right now, the Army is downsizing, so we must be more selective on who continues to serve. These soldiers are the best and the brightest.”

The Army is reducing its numbers, and the days of receiving cash bonuses for re-enlisting are coming to an end. Some military occupational specialties are being forced to choose new military positions to facilitate new requirements, said Sgt. 1st Class Nia Robinson, the TF-Resolute retention non-commissioned officer in charge.

Among the enlistees was Spc. Nelson Velez, a mechanic assigned to the 418th Trans. Company based at Fort Hood, Texas. He renewed his pledge to serve for an additional three years and in return was given the opportunity to continue serving at his current duty station.

“I want the Army to be a career for me, not just a job,” shared Velez. “I love what I do, and I feel like I am giving something back by serving my country.”