Photo By Spc. Josh Lecappelain | Soldiers applaud the Army's newest general, Brig. Gen. Jefforey Smith, Multi-National...... read more read more
By Spc. Josh LeCappelain
Multi-National Division - Center
CAMP VICTORY, Iraq – Brig. Gen. Jefforey Smith, Multi-National Division – Center and 10th Mountain Division deputy commanding general for support, was promoted from colonel during a ceremony at MND-C Headquarters, Sept. 11, 2008.
With family and friends watching via video teleconference system back home at Fort Drum, N.Y., a packed room burst into applause as a single star was placed upon Smith's Army combat uniform, symbolizing his promotion to brigadier general.
Lt. Gen. Lloyd Austin III, Multi-National Corps – Iraq commander, presided over the promotion ceremony and spoke to the crowd about Smith's accomplishments and potential.
"He is the caliber of man we look at to lead the Army," said Austin. "Jeff has done a great job, holding a number of challenging positions during his 25-year career. We are going to award him the rank that he has justly earned."
After being promoted, Smith spoke to the crowd, thanking everyone who helped him throughout his Army career.
"This is an awful humbling experience," said Smith, a native of Crossville, Tenn. "The reason I'm here tonight is all the help and assistance a lot of you have given me over the years."
Austin presented Smith with his general officer pistol belt and pistol, followed by Smith receiving his general officer flag – which serves as a symbol to Soldiers who serve in their command. Smith was commissioned a second lieutenant of Infantry through Reserve Officers' Training Corps at The Ohio State University in 1983.
He has served in a variety of command and staff assignments with the 101st Airborne Div., the 25th Infantry Div., Central Command and 10th Mtn. Div.
Smith's deployment history includes Operations Desert Shield, Desert Storm, Joint Guardian and Iraqi Freedom.
He is a graduate of the U.S. Army Command and General Staff College and U.S. Army War College. He holds a Master of Science in Administration degree from Central Michigan University and a Master of Science in Strategic Studies from the U.S. Army War College.
His military courses include Airborne, Ranger, Air Assault, Jumpmaster and Infantry Mortar Platoon Leader Course.
| Date Taken: | 09.11.2008 |
| Date Posted: | 09.11.2008 15:40 |
| Story ID: | 23525 |
| Location: | BAGHDAD, IQ |
| Web Views: | 363 |
| Downloads: | 104 |
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