HHC, 82nd CAB receive combat patches

Courtesy Photo | Staff Sgt. Gladis Everette, supply noncommissioned officer in charge, Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 82nd Combat Aviation Brigade, holds a handful of “All American” combat patches to be distributed to first-time deployers during a patch ceremony at Bagram Air Field, Afghanistan, Sept. 25. (U.S. Army photo by Capt. Eric Doe, 82nd Combat Aviation Brigade)  

BAGRAM AIR FIELD, AFGHANISTAN

09.25.2014

Story by Capt. Adan Cazarez 

82nd Combat Aviation Brigade

BAGRAM, Afghanistan- For nearly 30 paratroopers, today marks the day they received their shoulder sleeve insignia for former wartime service, often known as the combat patch. The ceremony was held at Bagram Air Field, Afghanistan, Sept. 25.

The combat patch is a symbol of the time Soldiers spend with a unit during combat operations. For some Soldiers, this combat patch ceremony will be one of many they have participated since the global war on terrorism began. For others this marks their first deployment.

Spc. Crystal Bradford, aviation operations specialist, a native of El Paso, Texas, has been in the Army for four years and is currently in her first deployment.

“I take pride to finally have a combat patch, especially an “All American” combat patch,” said Bradford.

The double “A” refers to the nickname “All American Division” adopted by the organization during World War I. The newly form unit was composed of members, who came from all across all 48 states and given the nickname “All-American.” The shoulder sleeve insignia was redesigned for the 82nd Airborne Division and an Airborne tab was added on top, authorized on August 31, 1942.

Before the ceremony, the 82nd Combat Aviation Brigade Headquarters and Headquarters Company first sergeant, 1st Sgt. Neftali Santiago, a native of Miami, brought the formation of first-time deployers together.

Today is a significant day for you,” said Santiago. “Not many have the privilege to wear the All-American patch as a combat patch.”
Also, standing in the formation was Maj. Melissa Dasgupta Smith, the lead counsel for the 82nd CAB, a native of Aurora, Colorado.
“Having the privilege to service my county in a combat environment is an honor,” said Dasgupta Smith. “Seeing firsthand how the rules of engagement are applied is an experience you will never forget.”
Regardless of future assignments, Soldiers who deployed with the 82nd CAB will be authorized the coveted insignia of the All American patch throughout their career.

• Date Taken: 09.25.2014
• Date Posted: 09.26.2014 12:43
• Story ID: 143373
• Location: BAGRAM AIR FIELD, AF