Raider Brigade Case Colors in Preparation for Deployment to Europe

Photo By Staff Sgt. Ryan Tatum | The 1st Armored Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division held a colors casing ceremony at Fort Stewart March 16 as the brigade prepares for a 6-month deployment as the Regionally Allocated Force for the U.S. European Command.  

FORT STEWART, GA, UNITED STATES

03.16.2016

Story by Spc. Ryan Tatum 

1st Armored Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division

FORT STEWART, Ga. - The 1st Armored Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division held a colors casing ceremony at Fort Stewart March 16 as the brigade prepares for a 6-month deployment as the Regionally Allocated Force for the U.S. European Command.

The casing of the colors is an Army tradition that symbolizes the movement of a unit to a new theater of operation and serves to honor the Soldiers who will deploy.

“Without hesitation, I am confident in saying that the soldiers and leaders of the 1st Armored Brigade Combat Team standing before you today are ready to answer the nation’s call,” said Col. Phil Brooks, the 1st Brigade Commander.

This is the brigade’s third rotation to Europe in just over a year. The brigade will be training throughout 11 countries in Europe, conducting multinational exercises focused on improving interoperability with their NATO allies and partners.

“We look to build on the relationships developed with our NATO allies and partners to ensure that we are able to operate seamlessly as part of a combined force,” said Brooks. “The training opportunities our soldiers and young leaders will receive during this rotation will be challenging and realistic that will ensure the brigade is ready to conduct decisive action operations against a myriad of threats.”

Brooks said the brigade is able to be successful thanks to the support and strength of their families.

“We understand the sacrifices you have made to support your soldier as they leave home, and I want to thank each of you for all that you are doing to ensure their success,” said Brooks. “It takes supportive families who understand and believe in what their Soldier is doing to provide resilient and confident soldiers.”

Brooks said he is confident in the abilities of the brigade and challenged them to work on improving themselves during this rotation.

“You represent the best of the Third Infantry Division, our Army and our nation,” said Brooks. “Take advantage of this amazing opportunity to train with our NATO allies and partners and I challenge each of you to get better every day.

• Date Taken: 03.16.2016
• Date Posted: 03.16.2016 19:54
• Story ID: 192628
• Location: FORT STEWART, GA, US