FORT BELVOIR, Va. - Today's Army is strong, capable and motivated, the Army's assistant deputy chief of staff for logistics said during an Army birthday celebration at the McNamara Headquarters Complex June 11.
"Whether battling the Taliban in Afghanistan, al-Qaida in Iraq or elsewhere, or handing out emergency food and water in Haiti, our Soldiers have repeatedly demonstrated their devotion by continuing to answer the call of duty," Army Maj. Gen. Edward F. Dorman III said.
The event marked the Army's 239th birthday and was hosted by the Defense Logistics Agency and Defense Threat Reduction Agency.
The past 12 years have been difficult for the Army, but its members have collectively demonstrated commitment and resilience, Dorman said.
"Each of you has played a key role in successfully completing every mission we have been given and, in turn, secured the trust of the American people and the elected officials who govern our nations," he added.
As the Army transitions from war and undergoes changes in size and focus, leaders must instill in others the importance of the Army as a profession, Dorman continued.
"Our profession is grounded in our sacred oath to defend the Constitution," he said. "Generations of men and women have fought to preserve this ideal in times of peace and war, and some have given the last full measure of devotion to ensure its protection. We must hold true to these enduring values of service as we remake our force and its capabilities."
Dorman outlined five essential characteristics that serve as the foundation of Army service: trust, military expertise, honorable service, esprit de corps and stewardship of the profession.
"We own this, each and every one of us. Together these principles legitimize our Army as a military profession. Together they embody more than words or a bumper sticker or a slogan. They call us to our primary task," he said.
The ceremony included a presentation of Army uniforms throughout history and performances by the 3rd U.S. Infantry Regiment, known as The Old Guard.
The event closed with a traditional cake cutting by the guests of honor and the oldest and youngest Soldiers present.
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