KAISERSLAUTERN, Germany - Leaders from the 21st Theater Sustainment Command rang in 2014 with members of the German military and local leaders from the Kaiserslautern community with food, fellowship and tradition during a New Year's reception at The Armstrong Club on Vogelweh Military Complex Jan. 10.
The occasion began with a piece of military tradition, the receiving line. Guests filed into the ballroom, signed into a guest book and were officially greeted by Maj. Gen. John R. O'Connor and Command Sgt. Maj. Rodney J. Rhoades, the 21st TSC commanding general and command sergeant major, respectively. To add a flare of German tradition, a local chimney sweep and his daughter also welcomed the guests and presented them with a one-Euro-cent piece.
"Chimney sweeps and one-cent pieces are symbols of good luck in a new year here in Germany," said Thomas Scharwatz, a chimney sweep and a native of Clausen, Germany. "It is important for members of the German community and the American community to come together like this to welcome a new year. It builds the partnership between them."
O'Connor then addressed all in attendance, welcoming them and wishing them a happy New Year.
"This is my first 21st TSC New Year's reception and I am absolutely thrilled at the opportunity to share this next year with you, my new extended family," he said. "The 21st TSC has enjoyed great support from its host nation partners and I know that will not change in 2014!"
He was then joined by Rhoades and Dr. Klaus Weichel, the Lord Mayor of Kaiserslautern, Germany, to cut the cake with the ceremonial saber. 'First in Support' leaders and their guests then enjoyed food, camaraderie and music provided by the U.S. Army Europe Band.
"It's important to start the year off together and with the German traditions of blessings and luck," Rhoades said. "I think it's going to be an incredible year for our soldiers."
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