Saturday, July 05, 2008

Fourth of July Reenlistment Ceremony

BAGHDAD RE-ENLISTMENT - More than 1,200 U.S. troops re-enlist in Baghdad, July 4, 2008, during a ceremony in the Al Faw Palace rotunda led by Multinational Force-Iraq Commander Army Gen. David Petraeus. Multinational Force Iraq Public Affairs

Baghdad, July 5, 2008 – Servicemembers from all over Iraq gathered here today in the Al Faw Palace rotunda on Camp Victory, to re-enlist and celebrate America’s Independence Day.

All 1,215 servicemembers celebrated by raising their right hand and pledging to continue defending the ‘land of the free’ in what is the largest re-enlistment ceremony since the all-volunteer force began in 1973, according to the Multi-National Force – Iraq Command Sergeant Major, Command Sgt, Maj. Marvin L. Hill.

“Volunteering to continue to serve our nation, while deployed – is both noble and inspiring,” said Gen. David Petraeus, commanding general, Multi-National Force – Iraq. “It is, as award citations often state, in keeping with the finest traditions of our military services.”

Petraeus presided over the ceremony and led the airmen, Marines, Sailors, and Soldiers in their oath to defend their country against all enemies both foreign and domestic on this day of celebration of America winning its independence.

"We recognize the sacrifices they make and the sacrifices their families and communities make as they serve in Iraq," Hill said. “These servicemembers know the cost of war and they are still re-enlisting.”

All together, the servicemembers pledged more than 5,500 years of additional service to their country.

“It makes me feel proud to serve this great nation,” said Spc. Zackary Cunningham, mechanic, 602nd Maintenance Battalion, Tactical Base Balad, who plans on making the Army a career.

The re-enlistees have every right to feel proud, according to Petraeus. “You and your comrades here have been described as America’s new greatest generation, and, in my view, you have more than earned that description,” Petraeus said. “It is the greatest of honors to soldier here with you.”


8 comments:

Mike Pittman said...

Just Awesome!

Anonymous said...

Fabulous! Truly inspiring!

The WordSmith from Nantucket said...

It's quite a sight to behold and be humbled by.

Sarge Charlie said...

I will post this also, what a bunch of real winners....

Buck said...

I agree with all your other commenters, Cynthia. Just awesome!

Anonymous said...

My hubby was in that!!! Congrats all of you and be safe!

Flag Gazer said...

Hallie -

Please tell him Thank You!

God Bless you both!

Anonymous said...

This is just so incredible. I wonder why we never saw it on NBC?

(Rhetorical question.)