ADA, Okla. – Family members, friends and fellow Soldiers gathered to send off the 1245th Transportation Company (TC) at a farewell ceremony July 2, at East Central University, Ada, Oklahoma. Soldiers of the 1245th TC, attached to 1st Cavalry Division, will conduct sustainment and support operations in the Middle East.
During the ceremony, members of the Kiowa Black Leggings Warrior Society presented the colors, and the Singers of the Kiowa Nation performed the War Mother’s tribute entitled “Thunderbird Song,” an homage to the 45th Infantry Division.
Capt. Warren Queton, commander of 1245th TC, is a member of the Kiowa Tribe. He noted many Native American symbols are represented throughout the Oklahoma National Guard.
“I am honored today that my people were able to bring in the flag,” Queton said. “As the Oklahoma National Guard, if you look at our logo, you will see a warrior wearing a headdress. It is not a war bonnet or a chief. It is not a symbol of fashion. As National Guardsmen, I wanted everybody to understand that is a symbol of great honor.”
According to Queton, acts of selfless service and duty define a Soldier, but also military family members as well.
“In my language they say, ‘cyat-thai,’” Queton explained. “The interpretation of that word means a person who puts others before himself; who takes care of other families before his own. That’s a cyat-thai, and that’s what you all are today.
“You are among the few, the less than one percent who stood up and took the oath of duty to serve our nation,” Queton continued. “That is why I consider you all honored ones. I am extremely honored to be your commander.”
Maj. Gen. Michael Thompson, adjutant general for Oklahoma, praised Soldiers and their family members for the sacrifices they make when duty calls. He observed that within the formation all Soldiers appear the same. However, individually, everybody is different, with different needs, jobs, religions, political affiliations and goals in life.
“The thing that inspires me about the Guard is despite all our differences, when our nation calls, you faithfully answer,” Thompson said. “You guys truly are America at its best. I believe in my heart you are the best America has to offer because of the sacrifices you make and the hardships you endure.”
It is an emotional time for Soldiers and family members when Soldiers leave Oklahoma to go to a combat area, Thompson noted. He relayed his deep appreciation and respect for the deploying Soldiers.
“I want to tell all of you thank you and you mean the world to me,” Thompson said. “As good as today is to send you off and to talk about the type of loyalty and respect we have for our country, I will be more excited to welcome you back home. Thank you for who you are, what you do, what you represent. You have my deepest respect.”
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