CAMP BUEHRING, Kuwait – U.S. Army Brig. Gen. Sharon Martin, Assistant Adjutant General, Missouri Army National Guard, spent several days visiting and talking with Soldiers assigned to the 35th Combat Aviation Brigade (CAB), Missouri Army National Guard, earlier this month at Camp Buehring, Kuwait.
The 35th CAB is currently supporting two named operations, Operation Inherent Resolve (OIR) and Operation Spartan Shield (OSS). Through these operations, the 35th CAB focuses on working with Coalition partners to support and set conditions for follow-on operations, which increase stability in the Middle East.
“The Missouri National Guard continually deploys a top-notch professional force that prides themselves in the ability to combine many units to complete a brigade force in support of Coalition operations,” said Martin. “I could not be more proud of all these Soldiers.”
Many challenges were faced putting the brigade together for this deployment. In all, there are Army National Guard units from fourteen states and two U.S. Army active duty units here, which make up the deployed force falling under the operational command of Missouri’s 35th CAB.
Martin’s visit focused on matters pertaining to the Missouri Army National Guard’s involvement in the international operations here, and more importantly, to meet and talk with the Soldiers assigned to the 35th CAB.
“Our Soldiers are providing critical roles in support of Coalition efforts,” said Martin. “I think it is important for leaders and Soldiers to know that I care about their mission, how it is going and to ensure they are getting all the support they need while they are deployed.” Martin also mentioned how impressed she is with the 35th CAB’s management of the complex and various areas of operations here, including the maintainers who keep the aviation assets in the fight.
During her visit, Martin addressed attendees of a Women’s History Month event in addition to presenting command coins as tokens of appreciation for excellent performance to some of the Soldiers.
U.S. Army Capt. Jaqueline Bowling, who is the officer in charge of the 35th CAB’s medical operations here, attended the Women’s History Month event. “As a female Soldier it is exciting to meet a high ranking female officer, like Brig. Gen. Martin. It is always great to see someone who you could emulate, not just as a female, but as an officer and a person.”
Bowling also received one of the command coins Martin presented. “I am honored to be recognized by Brig. Gen. Martin and also my command,” said Bowling. “Receiving this coin is special to me because everyone here deserves recognition.”
“I truly appreciate each and every Soldier’s dedication and sacrifice to ensure mission success,” said Martin. “Seeing the mission in person gave me a greater appreciation and admiration for everything that the units are accomplishing in a challenging environment.