Service members honor US Navy birthday in Afghanistan

Photo By Chief Petty Officer Shawn Graham | Maj. Gen. Robert Cone (center), Combined Security Transition Command - Afghanistan commanding general, joined by Seaman Michael Hooks (left), representing the youngest Sailor, and Cmdr. Stan Napierkowski, representing the oldest Sailor, prepare to cut the traditional birthday cake during a ceremony celebrating the U.S. Navy 233rd birthday, Oct. 13, 2008, at Camp Eggers in Kabul, Afghanistan.  

KABUL, AFGHANISTAN

10.13.2008

Story by Staff Sgt. Beth Del Vecchio 

NATO Training Mission Afghanistan

By Air Force Staff Sgt. Beth Del Vecchio
Combined Security Transition Command - Afghanistan

KABUL, Afghanistan – Service members from the Combined Security Transition Command - Afghanistan honored the 233rd anniversary of the U.S. Navy, Oct. 13, 2008, during a ceremony at Camp Eggers.

The U.S. Navy traces its origins to the Continental Navy, which the Continental Congress established, Oct. 13, 1775, by sending two armored vessels to cruise in search of munitions ships supplying the British army in America.

The sounding of the traditional Boatswain's pipe launched the ceremony, signaling the arrival of the official party. Boatswain's mate is the oldest rate in the U.S. Navy and the piping of distinguished visitors aboard a ship is a long-lived tradition in the service's history.

After the colors were posted, Master Chief Petty Officer Martin Aquino, CSTC-A's Navy senior enlisted advisor, spoke briefly on the history of the U.S. Navy.

"We have victories in numerous battles, operations and wars. Sailors have always accepted and overcome any challenge that has come their way," Aquino said. "Today, as we celebrate the Navy's birthday, we are in the middle of difficult war. We are proud to serve our country's combat team in honor of the spirit of those who have served before us."

Navy Capt. Shawno May, CSTC-A deputy command surgeon, and keynote speaker for the event, and spoke to the importance of the joint mission in Afghanistan.

"We have had our six watched over by members of every other service, and we have learned to depend on and value each other," May said.

By virtue of this shared experience, the inspiration of the brave leaders of each branch has become our common heritage, he said.

"Though it is the Navy's birthday, we Sailors are deeply grateful for our brothers and sisters from the Army, Air Force and Marines. This will be the Navy birthday to remember," May said.

After May's words, a flag presentation was held in honor of the fallen heroes of the Global War on Terrorism.

To end the ceremony, Major Gen. Robert Cone, CSTC-A commanding general, accompanied by
the oldest and youngest Sailor on Camp Eggers, cut the traditional birthday cake.

• Date Taken: 10.13.2008
• Date Posted: 10.13.2008 11:40
• Story ID: 24900
• Location: KABUL, AF