Ohio National Guard Soldiers Reenlist

Photo By Staff Sgt. Kimberly Johnson | Members of the 37th Infantry Brigade Combat Team command staff proudly stand with the four Soldiers from Ohio who reenlisted in Kuwait on the celebration of America's Independence on July 4.  

CAMP ARIFJAN, KUWAIT

07.04.2008

Story by Spc. Kimberly Johnson 

37th Infantry Brigade Combat Team

By Pfc. Kimberly Johnson
37th Inf. Brigade Combat Team Public Affairs Office

CAMP ARIFJAN, Kuwait — Four Ohio Army National Guard Soldiers answered the call of duty during an Independence Day celebration, thousands of miles from their beloved country, here, July 4.

Master Sgt. Shirley K. Parmi, Staff Sgt. Samuel Cordova, Sgt. Susan Hanudel, and Sgt. Adrian Newhouse, 37th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, were among 22 Soldiers to re-enlist, swearing to safeguard freedom at home and abroad.

Citizen-Soldiers embody a unique combination of warrior and civilian skills making them diverse in their service.

"Being a Soldier is many things to many people. For me it's the opportunity to give back," Newhouse said.

The Soldiers reenlisting, are deployed in support of Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom. They live the Army value of selfless service, and expressed their commitment to serve.

"The greatest part of being a Soldier is being able to serve my country and help fight for freedom," Hanudel said.

For Cordova, he is most proud of the years of service he has completed and all the challenges he has worked through along the way.

U.S. Army Central Commanding General, Lieutenant General James J. Lovelace, honorary speaker for the ceremony, spoke of the influence the military has on the individuals who serve.

"Now that you have served, you can never go home the same," Lovelace said. "Your service has changed you forever."

Newhouse echoed the general's statement after 20 years out of the service. He felt compelled to join the noble profession of soldiering again.

"Returning to service brought me focus. I've regained a sense of pride and duty to country that had waned throughout the years of complacency in civilian life. It has made me a much better person," Newhouse said of his recommitment.

As they raise their right hands, the Ohio Soldiers continue to commit themselves to serving their communities, their state and their country's honor.

"I reenlisted because I still haven't found anything I'd rather do with my life," Parmi said. "The Army has given me a true appreciation for what a great country the U.S. really is. I would never want to call another country home."

• Date Taken: 07.04.2008
• Date Posted: 07.04.2008 12:10
• Story ID: 21187
• Location: CAMP ARIFJAN, KW