Photo By 1st Sgt. Alexandria Hughes | Joint Task Force Guantanamo Troopers conduct a streamer ceremony during the 243rd Army...... read more read more
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NAVAL STATION GUANTANAMO BAY, Cuba — Joint Task Force Guantanamo Troopers and Naval Station Guantanamo Bay Residents celebrated the 243rd Army Birthday Ball, June 9. JTF GTMO Commander, Navy Rear Adm. John C. Ring was the guest speaker at the event hosted by Joint Detention Group Commander, Army Col. Stephen E. Gabavics and the Army Ball Committee.
The 2018 Army Ball included a streamer ceremony, honoring the colors, and remembering those who paid the ultimate price to defend freedom—all part of the celebration’s theme, “One Army, Standing Ready to Defend Freedom.”
During his remarks Gabavics thanked all the Soldiers, volunteers, and the Army Ball Committee for their efforts and support putting the Army ball together before expressing his pride in the American Soldier.
“The American Soldier, regardless of the time period, challenges facing the Nation, or the inherent danger they would face –our young men and women have continuously raised their hands to defend our freedom, our ways of life, even at the cost of their own,” Gabavics said. “I am so proud of all the Soldiers who have come before us and all those out there with us tonight, and every Soldier who serves today and will serve to defend our country.”
Ring addressed attendees during the event, remarking on the Army’s heritage and the men and women, who with the Army and through the Joint Services, have contributed to the Army’s rich history.
“The Army, comprised of Active Duty, National Guard, and Reserve Component Soldiers, makes up 78 percent of the boots on the ground here at GTMO, supporting the War of Terror detention operations,” Ring said. “Our mission would not be possible without everyone banding together as ‘One Army, Standing Ready to Defend Freedom.’“
A JTF GTMO Trooper in attendance shared why events like the 2018 Army Ball can benefit Soldiers at all levels.
“The Army ball is a great way to build camaraderie and remind us of our rich heritage,” she said, “and it reminds us why we signed up to do what we do.”
Ring’s comment on the Army legacy mirrored this sentiment.
“Men and women of the Army, whether draftees or volunteers, and regardless of the component, have banded together for the last 243 years to undertake whatever mission the Nation has asked of them,” he said. “On this birthday, we think about and remember the Soldiers who paid the ultimate sacrifice, the Soldiers who stood post to defend freedom, and the Soldiers everywhere who continue to honor the Army’s legacy of selfless service.”
Ring concluded his remarks, thanking all Soldiers, Sailors, Marines, Coastguardsmen, and civilians, past and present, who have defended freedom.
“May God bless those who have served in all of our wars, defending freedom and liberty,” he said. “And may God bless the United States of America…Go Navy, Beat Army.”
The conclusion of the formal ceremonies was met with laughter and cheers, followed by a social.
| Date Taken: | 06.09.2018 |
| Date Posted: | 08.16.2018 13:27 |
| Story ID: | 288903 |
| Location: | NAVAL STATION GUANTANAMO BAY, CU |
| Web Views: | 25 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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