Photo By Sgt. Maj. Daniel Griego | Spc. Ali S. Aljalali of Houston, holds his son following the 36th Infantry Division's...... read more read more
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AUSTIN, Texas - "Tom Brokaw described those US citizens who fought in World War II… as the 'Greatest Generation,'" said Army Maj. Gen. Jose S. Majorga, commander of the Texas Military Forces. "A similar story will be written about every Soldier here. You are selfless servants, American heroes, and members of the next greatest generation."
The 36th Infantry Division, herald of promise and peace, held its deployment ceremony Sunday, Sept. 26 at the University of Texas Frank Erwin Center. With this final farewell, the division's historic headquarters of more than 700 troops deploys into theater for the first time since World War II, and takes with it the hearts and prayers of Texans everywhere.
"From the dark forests of the Meusse-Argonne in World War I," said Maj. Gen. Eddy Spurgin, commander of the 36th Infantry Division, "to the beaches of Salerno and San Pietro in World War II, this division has performed superbly wherever it was sent. It was because of our proven track record that we were selected for this historic deployment, and I have no doubt whatsoever that the men and women of the 36th will add yet another great chapter to our division's storied history when we return from Iraq."
The division's objectives in Iraq include maintaining sustainable security conditions in the region, the drawdown of American forces and transferring authority to the new state department consulate in Basra.
"This mission will be unlike any other in the division's history," said Spurgin, "one that is sometimes more intellectual and diplomatic in nature."
Also on hand at the ceremony was guest of honor and keynote speaker, Governor Rick Perry, who praised the division for their patriotism and sense of duty.
"I believe there is no higher form of public service," said Perry, "than wearing the uniform of one's country. You follow a higher calling, rooted in the fundamental values of our nation that flow from the undeniable importance of freedom."
The division's mission, titled Operation New Dawn, will establish the outfit as the headquarters of U.S. Division South, where it will provide command and control of both active and reserve units throughout the nine provinces of southern Iraq.
"I think it's a fantastic thing for them," said Antonio Cortez Sr., a combat veteran who served with the 3rd Div, 2nd Bn of the United States Marine Corps. Cortez attended the ceremony in support of his niece's husband, Spc. Carlos M. Meda, a member of the 36th ID Band.
Throughout the ceremony, the themes of support and encouragement rang as families and loved ones garnered recognition for their role in a Soldier's readiness.
"Military service is a family affair," said Mayorga. "You are the unsung heroes for those of us in uniform. The sacrifices you endure throughout our careers, and more specifically during deployments, can never be acknowledged or praised enough."
Army Staff Sgt. Joseph A. Parra, of B Company, 36th Division Special Troops Battalion, echoed the general's sentiment with praise for his own family.
"The support has been fantastic, absolutely fantastic."
As the 36th Infantry Division departs for its yearlong journey to foster Iraq into a new era of independence, its trained and focused Soldiers go forth with the confidence of a ready force.
"It's my job, it's my duty," said Parra. "I'm proud to wear the T-Patch, I'm proud to serve in the Texas Army National Guard. I'm really looking forward to it."
| Date Taken: | 09.26.2010 |
| Date Posted: | 09.29.2010 00:19 |
| Story ID: | 57147 |
| Location: | AUSTIN, TEXAS, US |
| Web Views: | 583 |
| Downloads: | 4 |
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