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Vanguard's Push for Their New Home

Photo By Sgt. Lance Wail | Staff Sgt. Skipwith, Fire Support NCO attached to HHC 1-18 Infantry, listens as COL...... read more read more

CAMP BUEHRING, KUWAIT

10.13.2006

Courtesy Story

2nd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division Public Affairs

by Pfc. Jake Wisneiwski
2nd BCT, 1st Inf. Div. PAO

CAMP BUEHRING, Kuwait - With a speech that will give Task Force 1-18 IN "Vanguards" the drive to push forward, Col. J. B. Burton, the Commander of 2nd Brigade, 1st Infantry Division, drove right to the point. "When I look at these Soldiers, I see a formation of disciplined, prideful, and well trained Soldiers," said Burton as he looked on into the crowd.

As the Vanguards listened intently to what their brigade commander was saying, they took home at least one lesson - there are three things being done now and need to be done continuously down the road.

Firstly, always make sure everyone knows what they are doing including the lowest ranking, whether it is leaving the Forward Operating Base or not.

Secondly, always ensure pre-combat checks and inspections are completed for personnel and equipment prior to moving out on any mission.

The third point in his send off address was to make sure Soldiers don't fall into a routine.

Burton went on to explain what he expected from and gave direction to the Task Force.

He explained his pride of what has become of Task Force 1-18 IN, gave credit to their hard work and dedication, and added some final words of encouragement. "When you get to [your final destination], take with you the hopes and pride of our small community in Europe," said Burton, "We take pride and teamwork where ever we go."

When asked how he felt about Burton's speech Staff Sgt. Clifford Gabriel, of Alpha Company 1st Battalion, 18th Infantry Regiment, from Pen Argyl, Pa., simply put that it "Didn't beat around the bush and went straight to the point." Gabriel also said that his unit is more prepared and better trained for this deployment than for his previous two deployments.

Sgt. Kyle Watkins of Alpha Company 1st Battalion, 77th Armor Regiment, from Yukon, Okla., which has been attached to Task Force 1-18 IN, stated, "The speech was good about telling Soldiers where and how to keep their mindset and to keep everyone safe."

When asked how he would better help the deployment, Watkins put it best by saying that it is, "My job to keep my guys sharp and prepared with everything they do." In the end, the Task Force took to heart the words said by their brigade commander and will be sure to remember it as they move on.