Photo By Staff Sgt. Leona Hendrickson | Master Sgt. Fraiden Braithwaite, Joint Force Headquarters J4/G4, District of Columbia...... read more read more
Master Sgt. Fraiden Braithwaite, from Joint Force Headquarters J4/G4, District of Columbia National Guard, served as the Contract Officer Representative for nearly 300 service members from the Virgin Islands National Guard (VING) during the 60th Presidential Inauguration mission. This was Braithwaite’s last inauguration, marking the end of his 24-year stateside career. It was also one of the largest groups the VING has ever sent for an inauguration. For Braithwaite, this final role was especially meaningful, offering him the opportunity to give back to the community where his journey first began.
As a teenager, Braithwaite joined ROTC and knew from that moment he would become a soldier after high school, calling it an accomplishment he was "destined" for. His military journey began with the 661st Military Police Unit of the Virgin Islands National Guard (VING). Now, as he supports the Virgin Islands during the 60th Presidential Inauguration mission, Braithwaite embodies how the National Guard creates strong, lasting connections, serving as a nationwide network of forces working together across the country.
Braithwaite served with the VING from 1984 to 1985 before moving to the United States. After 9/11, he re-enlisted with the North Carolina National Guard and later transferred to the D.C. National Guard in 2010.
“I feel like I’ve come full circle, supporting the Virgin Islands National Guard, the organization where I began my military career, during what is likely to be my final presidential inauguration,” said Braithwaite.
As the Contract Officer Representative (COR), Braithwaite was responsible for making sure that the VING had everything it needed to support the mission. From lodging to showers, he worked tirelessly to meet logistical needs and ensure the success of the 60th Presidential Inauguration mission.
This large group benefited enormously from Braithwaite’s dedication and around-the-clock efforts. Braithwaite’s main task was to ensure adequate facilities and support services were provided to keep unit integrity to prepare for the 60th Presidential Inauguration.
“It is very impressive to see so many soldiers from such a small jurisdiction,” said Braithwaite.
The VING soldiers and leadership appreciate the work being done to support their soldiers’ readiness. Opportunities to connect are what make the 60th Presidential Inauguration a heartfelt mission that reinforces service members’ commitment to success.
| Date Taken: | 01.20.2025 |
| Date Posted: | 01.22.2025 10:36 |
| Story ID: | 489360 |
| Location: | DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA, US |
| Web Views: | 570 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
This work, Former Virgin Islands National Guardsman Brings Experience and Commitment to Support the Mission, by SPC Astia LeBron, identified by DVIDS, must comply with the restrictions shown on https://www.dvidshub.net/about/copyright.
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