Photo By Sgt. Spencer Rhodes | A young Soldier with the 1st Battalion, 111th Aviation Regiment shakes the hand of...... read more read more
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JACKSONVILLE, FLA—Over 300 soldiers from the 1st Battalion 111th Aviation Regiment gathered at Cecil Field today for their official departure ceremony before deploying to the Middle East and Southwest Asia. The unit will be joining soldiers from five other states as part of a task force providing Medevac and cargo support as part of Operation Enduring Freedom.
“The Florida National Guard has a reputation for competence and readiness to support our state and nation,” said Army Maj. Gen. Michael A. Calhoun, the Adjutant General of Florida, “you not only sacrifice for our nation overseas, but also respond to disasters and provide life-saving relief to citizens in our state.”
Leaders from throughout the Florida National Guard were quick to praise the unit, which was given short notice for the deployment.
“Normally you know about a deployment two years beforehand, but the National Guard Bureau asked if we could go early, and we said yes,” said Major Michael Adler. “We had about a year to prepare, which isn’t that much considering drills and all the annual training we have to do, but thanks to the fast communication with higher headquarter we’re going to do great as we always do.”
Lt. Col. Harlamor, commander of the 1-111th, explained the extensive training and operations that occurred over a variety of fronts throughout the battalion. The units spent 11 months preparing new pilots, crew chiefs, door gunners, and medics, cumulating in a month long Pre-Mobilization Training at Camp Blanding Joint Training Center in April.
“The soldiers on review represent a battle-hardened unit of galvanized professionals who stand selflessly prepared to confront head-on the continuing world friction that refuses to fatigue or recede,” said Lt. Col Harlamor. “What’s more inspirational is that they are here today because they volunteered to be.”
For many of the soldiers, like Pfc. Anthony Hauser, a communication specialist with the 1-111th, this deployment marks their first time leaving the country.
“I’m looking forward to experiencing a different country, different culture and all the things most people don’t get to do.” While noting his mother’s concern for her son going overseas, Williams says “Mom’s worried, but she’s also proud and knows I need this kind of experience to start my life.”
Calhoun acknowledged the equally critical role that Soldiers’ families play in preparing for and enduring deployments, as family members often shoulder an even larger burden than the deployed Servicemember. A sentiment echoed by the 1-111th’s commander.
“...I would be further remiss if I didn’t obligingly acknowledge the unwavering efforts of our Family Readiness Group and their staff as well as each family member whether they are here today in person or in spirit. For they are just as much an integral part of our formation,” said Harlamor.
| Date Taken: | 06.02.2016 |
| Date Posted: | 06.02.2016 21:39 |
| Story ID: | 199809 |
| Location: | JACKSONVILLE, FLORIDA, US |
| Web Views: | 4,320 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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