By Capt. Stephanie M. Pegher
Multi-National Division-Center
BAGHDAD – Nine Soldiers from the 370th Engineer (Sapper) Company, 54th Engineer Battalion, reenlisted to stay in the Army for four more years in a special ceremony on Dec. 29, 2008. The reenlistment ceremony took place at the Al Faw Palace on Victory Base Complex, headquarters of Multi-National Corps-Iraq. Maj. Gen. Michael Oates, commanding general of Multi-National Division-Center, administered the reenlistment oath to all nine Soldiers.
Maj. Gen. Oates thanked the Soldiers for their service and reminded them that "less than two-percent of the United States population steps up to the challenge of serving their nation." That these Soldiers have chosen to serve, and not only serve, but reenlist during a time of war is a testament to their patriotism.
"Sappers hold a special place in my heart and it is an honor for me to reenlist these Soldiers today," remarked Maj. Gen. Oates when addressing the formation of 370th Engineer Company Sappers in attendance. Many Soldiers from the 370th Engineer Company traveled to Victory Base Complex from outlying Forward Operating Bases in order to attend the ceremony.
Following the ceremony, Maj. Gen. Oates took the time to shake hands and take individual pictures with each newly, reenlisted Soldier.