The Polish Defense Ministry held the annual Armed Forces Day Parade on Wednesday next to the Vistula River, also commemorating their 100th year of regaining their independence. For miles there were people wearing red and white, waving flags and the joy they all shared in the love of their nation.
“This is a proud moment for me and I love being a tanker,” said Sgt. Aechere Crump from Troop D, 1st Squadron, 7th Cavalry Regiment “Garry Owen,” currently deployed to Poland in support of U.S. Army Europe’s Atlantic Resolve mission.
Over 40 U.S. Soldiers from 1-7th Cav. Regt., 1st Armored Brigade Combat Team “Ironhorse,” 1st Cavalry Division gathered in downtown Warsaw to march along with their NATO Allies in the Polish Armed Services Day Parade. They also brought one M1A2 Abrams main battle tank, one M2A3 Bradley fighting vehicle and one M88 Hercules heavy equipment recovery vehicle to drive in the parade. Another Abrams tank was placed in a static display outside the PGE Narodowy stadium for everyone to see and climb on.
“I haven’t been a tanker as long as others, but being chosen to be here today and represent my unit makes me feel accomplished,” said Crump.
The parade started at 1 p.m. and lasted till 3 p.m. All kinds of vehicles from NATO countries joined the parade or were on display, to include artillery from Croatia, air defense artillery from Romania, and reconnaissance vehicles from Great Britain.
“I would have never expected to be the one in charge of representing Ironhorse during an event of this scale,” said 1st Lt. Taylor Sams from Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 1-7th Cav. Regt.
Along with Poland, the U.S., Croatia, Great Britain, Romania and Germany participated in the festivities.
“I am glad my command chose me to coordinate and work with our Polish Allies,” said Sams. “It is an experience I will never forget.”
Other units that participated today included Soldiers from 1st Squadron, 2nd Cavalry Regiment and 10th Army Air and Missile Defense Command. All U.S. Army units participating in the parade are currently stationed in Europe where they consistently train with fellow NATO forces. Over 200 Soldiers represented the U.S. Army in the parade.
Many Soldiers deployed in support of Atlantic Resolve have never been overseas or had the opportunity to train with other countries. Others have only completed combat deployments and never had the opportunity to fully embrace the people and learn about the culture.
“This is my first deployment in the Army,” said Pfc. Julian Zamudio. “I’m glad I was able to travel to Warsaw and see how much we are welcome here. I am glad I was given the opportunity to deploy to Poland.”