Photo By 1st Sgt. Tracy Korff | Army Reserve Lt. Col. Carla R. Pace, commander of the 718th Transportation Battalion,...... read more read more
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WHITEHALL, Ohio - In the spirit of military tradition, the Army Reserve’s 643rd Regional Support Group (RSG) concluded their annual mission training brief (MTB) with the 643rd RSG Dining Out at the Veterans of Foreign War (VFW) Post 9473, Feb. 18, 2017, Reynoldsburg, Oh.
A “dining out” is a traditional military ceremonial dinner designed to foster camaraderie and esprit de corps. The event incorporates all of the military traditions associated with the more formal “mess night,” or “dining in,” including a table setting dedicated to those military members killed, captured, or missing in action.
The guest speaker for this dining in was Brig. Gen. Vincent B. Barker, commanding general of the 310th Sustainment Command (Expeditionary). During his remarks he emphasized the importance of each Soldier in the army.
“All of you make a contribution to represent the best our nation has to offer whether you are serving here in Ohio or deployed overseas” said Barker.
As an avid history buff, Barker then quoted Lt. Gen. George S. Patton sharing a similar message of endurance. “All the real heroes are not storybook combat fighters, every single man in this army plays a vital role, don’t ever let up and don’t ever think that your job is unimportant.”
The president of the mess for the dining out was Col. Stephen R. Smith, commander of the 643d RSG, joined by his wife Mrs. Lucy Smith. Smith emphasized the importance of families and the role they play in the lives of Soldiers. He explained how this military tradition transformed from a dining in, Soldier only event, to a dining out allowing family members to take part in the military tradition.
The family themed event was further emphasized by Barker, “one thing remains constant in the lives of Soldiers, no matter where or when they served,” said Barker, “our Army families have been the bedrock of our service.”
Several battalions and companies of the 643d RSG were recognized for excellence during the dining out. The 643rd RSG Command Group presented awards to the best overall battalion, small company, and large company. Each recipient was presented a statue of a Spartan to symbolize the bravery and courage in takes to maintain readiness.
The 718th Transportation Battalion, Columbus, Ohio, was recognized at the best overall battalion. The leadership includes Lt. Col. Carla R. Pace and Command Sgt. Maj. Daniel Arndt.
The 758th Ordnance Company, Whitehall, Ohio, was recognized as the best overall large company. The leadership includes 1st Lt. Michael D. Blucker and 1st Sgt. Sherry Leibengood.
The 660th Transportation Detachment, Delaware, Ohio, was recognized as best small company. The leadership includes Capt. Zachary B. Hoffman and Sgt. 1st Class Adam L. Casto.
Music for the event was provided by the 338th Army Band, Whitehall, Ohio.
Smith recognized the role that the Soldiers and civilians in the unit played in organizing an event of this magnitude.
“The success we had tonight is directed not to me and not to my Command Sergeant Major,” said Smith, “but to every one of my staff members and I want to make sure you are recognized.”
In closing the event, Smith presented Barker with a Marine Corps medallion coin as a token to recognize his past service and love of history.
“Always looking backward to always go forward,” said Smith.
| Date Taken: | 03.06.2017 |
| Date Posted: | 03.06.2017 22:40 |
| Story ID: | 225937 |
| Location: | WHITEHALL, OH, US |
| Web Views: | 522 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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