Photo By Capt. William Stroud | On Nov. 21, 2025, the 311th Expeditionary Sustainment Command (ESC) joined Cal State...... read more read more
On Nov. 21, 2025, the 311th Expeditionary Sustainment Command (ESC) joined Cal State Fullerton for Exhibition & Aviation Day, an event designed to showcase Army capabilities and inspire the next generation of leaders. Soldiers and units from Active Duty, Army Reserve, National Guard, and the United States Military Academy (USMA) came together for a full day of demonstrations, mentorship, and hands-on experiences.
The 311th ESC supported the event with Soldiers and equipment from the 419th Combat Sustainment Support Battalion (CSSB), 1017th Quartermaster Company, and 478th Transportation Company, highlighting the diverse capabilities of the Army Reserve. These units worked side by side to provide logistics, demonstrations, and mentorship to students and JROTC cadets throughout the day.
Students and cadets from six local high school JROTC programs, including both Army and Marine Corps units, participated in a Ranger Challenge Course, testing their teamwork, endurance, and problem-solving skills. The challenge culminated in a HMMWV truck pull, where participants demonstrated grit, determination, and leadership under pressure.
Winners of the course were presented a Coin of Excellence by Cal State Fullerton ROTC PMS, Lt. Col. David Babcock, who commented on the importance of these events in developing future leaders: "These students showed incredible resilience and teamwork today. The skills they demonstrated here will serve them well in the future, both in leadership and in life." He added, "Events like this give students a real opportunity to engage with Soldiers, understand what service is all about, and see how Army values—discipline, teamwork, and perseverance—translate into success."
Lt. Col. Daniel Hernandez, Commander of the 419th CSSB, emphasized the Army Reserve’s role in community engagement: "Our Soldiers were proud to provide equipment and mentorship to these future leaders. Seeing students rise to the challenges we set before them demonstrates the impact Army Reserve units can have in the community."
Throughout the day, Soldiers from the 1017th QM and 478th TC worked to ensure that every student and cadet had hands-on learning opportunities. 1st Sgt. Gywhan Parker, representing these units, noted: "From logistical support to hands-on demonstrations, our teams worked to ensure every student and cadet had a meaningful experience. The energy and enthusiasm from these young leaders were truly inspiring."
Maj. Dino De La Hoya, Chief of Public Affairs for the 79th Theater Sustainment Command, highlighted how events like these fit within the broader Army Reserve mission: "The Army Reserve and our commanding general, Maj. Gen. Todd L. Erskine, are committed to strengthening ties with local communities and inspiring future leaders through events such as this. By engaging ROTC and JROTC programs, the Army Reserve demonstrates its commitment to mentorship and developing leaders."
By combining training, mentorship, and community engagement, the event gave students and cadets an up-close look at Army operations while emphasizing leadership, teamwork, and resilience. Cal State Fullerton Exhibition Day continues to serve as a bridge between the Army Reserve and local communities, shaping future leaders and inspiring students to pursue excellence in all endeavors.
About the 311th Expeditionary Sustainment Command The 311th ESC, headquartered in Los Angeles, California, is a major subordinate command of the 79th Theater Sustainment Command. The unit provides operational and logistical support to Army Reserve, Active Duty, and joint forces across a wide spectrum of missions, ensuring sustainment, readiness, and mission success. The 311th ESC is committed to supporting Soldiers, their families, and the communities in which they serve.
| Date Taken: | 12.31.1969 |
| Date Posted: | 12.04.2025 17:34 |
| Story ID: | 552905 |
| Location: | FULLERTON, CALIFORNIA, US |
| Web Views: | 13 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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