ANNISTON ARMY DEPOT, Ala. -- As I write this column, I am reminded of several distinguished guests who came through our gates this month and how you never missed a beat in extending hospitality.
On May 1, our senior leader, Maj. Gen. Michael Terry, TACOM LCMC commanding general, made his final stop to the depot before he changes command next month. Throughout his visit, he commented about the dedication of our outstanding workforce. The day ended with coin presentations to 60 excellent employees.
Twelve days ago, one hundred twenty Soldiers from the 900th Maintenance Company arrived to perform maintenance activities and training which aligns with honing skills for their go- to-war mission through completion of a two week annual training.
From the directorates of production, material maintenance, and engineering and quality, these warriors are working side-by-side with some of the depot's top civilians.
For decades, the depot has been the site for various Reserve and National Guard units in support of both federal and state mission requirements and we look forward to more.
On May 12, a major ceremony was held to mark the start of Low Rate Initial Production of the M109A7 Self Propelled Howitzer and M992A3 Carrier Ammunition Tracked artillery system vehicles. This partnering initiative is made possible through the efforts of team ANAD and BAE Systems.
There is much work to be done and I have no doubt that you will work vigorously to guarantee these vehicles are of the highest quality. (Content and pictures documenting the three previous events have been posted to Facebook and Flickr.)
On May 22, Lt. Col. Stephen DeMien, TACOM's chaplain, will address the workforce at a prayer breakfast at the Berman Varner House.
We appreciate his presence and know a heartfelt message will be shared.
Later that day, we'll travel to the Cemetery at McClellan for a Memorial Day ceremony and placement of flags at 355 gravesites of service members who paid the ultimate price for our freedoms.
As we move further into the Memorial Day weekend, which marks the beginning of vacation and travels, I ask you to take a moment to remember the sacrifices of our nation's brave fallen men and women who proudly served our country. Their service to this country is the greatest gift of all. Because of them, we enjoy the freedoms that exist today.
If you plan to travel during this period or perhaps relax at home with family and friends, I ask you to obey the traffic laws, act responsibly, be the example you would be proud to follow and think (safety) before taking that next, potentially hazardous, step.
Enjoy your time off, and remember -- we need and want you back.
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