543rd CSC deploys to strengthen commitment to America’s European allies

10th Mountain Division Sustainment Brigade Public Affairs Office
Story by Sgt. Brandon Cox

Date: 05.06.2019
Posted: 05.07.2019 15:53
News ID: 321237

FORT DRUM, NY – Soldiers from the 10th Mountain Division, 10th Sustainment Brigade, 548th Combat Sustainment Support Battalion, 543rd Composite Supply Company case their colors during a ceremony May 3, 2019, in preparation for their upcoming deployment to Poland in support of Operation Atlantic Resolve (OAR).

Atlantic Resolve is a demonstration of continued U.S. commitment to reassure the allies and partners of America’s dedication to peace and stability in the European region. Multinational rotations like these improve interoperability, promote trust, and strengthen the relationships with America’s allies.

The ceremony symbolizes the start of the deployment. The colors will not be uncased until they arrive in Poland and complete a transfer of authority.

“Centurions, the mission in front of you is extremely important,” said Lt. Col. Anthony L. Wilson, the battalion commander of the 548th Combat Sustainment Support Battalion. “Your presence is to enable maneuver forces to have a short presence in the region that will hopefully deter the enemy from future conflicts with us.”

Capt. Claire Betterbed, the commander of the 543rd CSC spoke about the preparation required for this mission.

“As we progressed through the build-up to deployment we faced our share of triumphs and challenges,” said Betterbed. “Through each challenge we became tougher, more confident in our abilities, and more competent in our core tasks.”

Approximately 135 10th Sustainment Brigade Soldiers will serve a nine-month rotation combined with 11 other active and National Guard units to support OAR, according to 1st Sgt. Christina Rivera, a native of Long Beach, CA and the First Sergeant for the 543rd CSC. They are to replace the 526th Composite Supply Company, from Fort Riley, Kansas.

“The 543rd is the most complex and diverse Company in the 10th Mountain Division,” said Wilson.

Wilson added that the unit is comprised of 17 different military occupational specialties to include water purification, fueling, and shower and laundry operations which will provide the support required for many units and allied partners while deployed.

For Staff Sgt. Christa Page, a native of Philadelphia, PA, this ceremony marks the beginning of her fourth deployment.

“I’m always open to new challenges and open to see different things,” said Page. “I’m really excited and proud to be a part of this unit.”

“The Soldiers of the 543rd CSC are ready,” said Betterbed. “I look forward to leading this team of trained and talented mountain warriors to accomplish the mission and come back to our families and our homes at the 10th Mountain Division.”