The 30th Brigade Combat Team nicknamed the Old Hickory closed another Chapter

FORWARD OPERATING BASE CALDWELL, IRAQ

01.13.2005

Courtesy Story

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Story by: Capt. L. Paula Sydenstricker

FORWARD OPERATING BASE CALDWELL, Iraq - - For the first national guard brigade to be called to active duty since the Korean War their time in Iraq came to a close with the final step, the transfer of authority.

The 30th Brigade Combat Team nicknamed the "Old Hickory" closed another Chapter in their long history of accomplishments. They gave authority to the 278th Armored Cavalry Regiment. The only cavalry regiment in the national guards.

"We bid farewell to the 30th BCT and welcome the 278th ACR," said Maj Gen John R. S. Batiste, 1st Infantry Division Commander.

One of the first things that the 30th accomplished after arriving in Iraq was making the facility bigger. The original Forward Operating Base was housing a battalion when the brigade arrived in early February. The unit simultaneously conducted day to day operations and stability operations.

"Things we wanted to accomplish was the quality of life for the citizens of Iraq and disband the ones that didn't want us here," said the executive officer, LTC Greg Lusk.

The native of Riley, NC also said that gathering ammunition was another big thing they accomplished.

"There were battle position that had been around since the Iran-Iraq war and there was just tons of ammo lying around. These could be used against us for making of improved explosive devices (IED)" said Lusk.

The unit captured around 370 caches during their 10-month deployment. They also had to patrol the Iran-Iraq border which they had immediate success with that.

Old Hickory had 526 projected started or completed. Employed 2,000 workers; conducted 19,000 patrols; 3,700 joint patrols and found 1,300 rounds of artillery.

"The Soldiers were eager and the unit got right at it, we grew up a lot as a unit," said Lusk.

"The 30th BCT will forever be on the honor wall of the 1st ID", said Batiste.

The unit brought close to 3,700 troops to Iraq. 278th ACR arrived to Iraq over 3,400 troops.

The 278th ACR has been around since the Civil War where they got the motto "I volunteer, Sir".

"It is a tremendous honor to serve with you," said Batiste.

He also added the good people of Iraq still needed the help of 278th. Help with the Iraqi National Guard, Iraqi Police and the Iraqi Security Force.

The 278th have fought in all major battles to include both World Wars. Through out these the unit gathered over 5 citations, three congressional medal of honors.

"I congratulate you on what you have done and accomplished during this deployment," said the Old Hickory Commander, Brig. Gen Danny Hickman.

He also said he is proud to be replaced with such a great unit and great Soldiers to his counterparts, the 278th.

"It is hard to believe that it is over, it has been a long, hard drive," said Lusk.

• Date Taken: 01.13.2005
• Date Posted: 01.13.2005 11:07
• Story ID: 852
• Location: FORWARD OPERATING BASE CALDWELL, IQ