The 25th Infantry Division celebrated its 78th anniversary this year as long standing residents in the state of Hawaii. Their love for the 50th state is shared with none other than NBA team, the Los Angeles Clippers, who have hosted their preseason training camp in Honolulu for Clipper Hawaii Classic.
The 25th Infantry Division color guard proudly presented the Nation’s colors during two games this week at the Stan Sheriff Center here.
“Patriotism goes hand-in-hand with sports and with serving the country,” said Sgt. Brandon Crainish, U.S. flag bearer for the 25th Inf. Div. color guard and an air defense battle management system operator with 25th Division Artillery. “It was an honor to be able to represent the military during the Clippers game.”
The Los Angeles Clippers organization took the time to recognize two outstanding Soldiers from the “Tropic Lightning” Division for their hard work in defending the nation.
Sgt. 1st Class Jack Cumings, a cavalry scout, from 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 25th Inf. Div. was recognized for winning the 25th ID non-commissioned officer and best warrior of year competition for 2019. Cumings also earned 3rd place in the U.S. Army Pacific Command best warrior competition.
“It was a humbling experience to be recognized in front of so many people in our community,” said Cumings after he received a token of appreciation during the game against the Houston Rockets Oct. 3 at Stan Sheriff Center. “I hope that I can encourage others to step out of their comfort zone and compete in military competitions in the future.”
During their second game of the week the Los Angeles Clippers organization recognized a second Soldier.
Spc. Dhyamond Crenshaw, a culinary specialist, from Special Troops Battalion, 25th Division Sustainment Brigade, 25th Inf. Div. earned the title of Best Chef at a competition held at the U.S. Army Hawaii Noncommissioned Officer Academy in September.
“It was a really great feeling, something I never thought I would experience,” Crenshaw said, after she received a token of appreciation during the game against the Shanghai Sharks Oct. 6 at Stan Sheriff Center.
The 25th Infantry Division, “Tropic Lightning,” is America’s Pacific Division. The division provides the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command a uniquely tailorable force with ability to rapidly respond to contingencies across the Pacific. Tropic Lightning Soldiers, a reliable, credible and disciplined force, continuously work with partners and allies to prepare for shared challenges.
-30-