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TF Chosin Soldiers receive awards

Courtesy Photo | Sgt. Maj. James Redmore congratulates Soldiers for their achievements throughout the...... read more read more

JALALABAD, AFGHANISTAN

05.27.2007

Courtesy Story

Combined Joint Task Force - 82 PAO

By Pfc. Jaime D. Mial
Task Force Spartan Public Affairs

FORWARD OPERATING BASE FENTY, Afghanistan – Soldiers from 1st Battalion, 32nd Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division at Forward Operating Base Fortress and Combat Maine received various awards May 26.

Col. John Nicholson, 3rd BCT, 10th Mountain Division (Task Force Spartan) commander, Command Sgt. Maj. James Redmore, Task Force Spartan command sergeant major, and Lt. Col. Christopher Cavoli, Task Force Chosin commander, visited the troops to present them with their awards and thank them for their service.

When the group arrived at Combat Maine, the Soldiers were already standing in formation, in full battle-rattle. The Soldiers of "Combat" Company were completely silent with nearby goats and the steps of the approaching men making the only sounds.

As each of their awards was read, Nicholson pinned the awards on their chest and thanked them for a job well done. The other command members followed suit, thanking the Soldiers as well.

"I just want to add my personal thanks to the thanks of the nation," Nicholson said after pinning the final award.

"Men, you've served honorably," Redmore added.

Many of the Soldiers at Combat Maine were dusty and tired with months of hard work written across their faces. Regardless, the Soldiers' salutes were sharp with pride.

Before leaving Cavoli said, "It has been a huge honor to be associated with you."

After all awards were given out, Nicholson, Redmore, and Cavoli returned to their helicopter to move on to FOB Fortress. There they were given a tour of the recently updated facilities before the Soldiers formed up to receive their awards.

As the sun shone bright down on them, the Soldiers, who were from various companies in 1-32, received their awards. Once again they were thanked for their service, and congratulated on their achievements.

"The things you have done are about as tough as it gets," Nicholson said. "You have set the condition for the 173rd to take it to the next level," he added referring to the 173rd Airborne Brigade Combat Team who will relieve the 3rd Brigade Combat Team on June 6.

The Soldiers of 1-32 have only a short time left until their long awaited trip home, where they can lay their hard earned medals down, and finally take their boots off for a rest.