FORT SILL, Okla. (Oct. 30, 2014) -- Though planned for months, the 168th Brigade Support Battalion could not have planned a better night than Oct. 24 to hold the annual Logistics Ball.
The annual postwide tradition saw incredible planning, perfect timing and proper execution come together to make the ball the best in its five-year history.
"The logistics community on Fort Sill is large, but spread out among many units," said Lt. Col. Mark Mayes, 168th BSB commander. "The ball's goal is to simply bring logisticians from the 168th BSB, 100th BSB and across post together to build an esprit de corps that can strengthen the relationships among us."
This goal was met when Soldiers of all ranks from many units gathered at the ballroom to enjoy a festive night of fine dining, dancing and socializing while never leaving the traditions of the Army and corps behind. Familiar faces greeted one another and new acquaintances were made as business and personal matters were discussed equally and seemingly in the same breaths.
"The Logistics Ball is always fun," said Spc. Jessica Wilson, B Company 168th BSB. "I love the tradition and how all ranks can celebrate our logistical heritage together. Army balls are one of the things that make us great, and the fun atmosphere makes it easier to meet Soldiers in other units and form working relationships."
These working relationships and mentorships were none more apparent than in the good fortune that fell upon the logisticians with the presence of guest speaker Maj. Gen. Kevin O'Connell, commanding general of Army Sustain-ment Command, who happened to be at Fort Sill inspecting the Fort Sill Logistics Readiness Center.
Mays and Lt. Col. Jon Lust, 100th BSB commander, had previous working relationships with O'Connell and cite him as a mentor for their careers.
Beautiful October weather iced the cake of a perfect evening to celebrate the logistics branches and Army service. Smiles shone on faces brighter than the brass of freshly pressed dress uniforms, the joint 168th BSB and 100th BSB color guard was crisp and flawless, toasts were heartfelt and reverberatingly loud through the hall and the speakers' words were wise, inspiring and celebratory.
"The Logistics Ball is definitely one of the highlights of the year," said Capt. Joseph Barnes, Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 168th BSB. "It is the perfect way to get everyone together, strengthen the logistics team, and build camaraderie while letting loose with friends new and old."
By taking turns hosting the event, the 100th BSB and 168th BSB maintain an active and healthy relationship that provides a foundation for the effective support of one another and the brigades they serve. By inviting the Brigade Command Teams to the Logistics Ball, and awarding them with logistics honors, the units highlight the mutual respect shown between echelons and the fires/logistical branches.
Logisticians are a rightfully proud group, and while not always the most visible group in the Army, their tireless work and dedication allows the Army to function and advance.
Events like the Best Logistician Competition held every year in late-summer allows "loggies" to test and demonstrate their skills, while events like the Logistics Ball allow them to celebrate their accomplishments, both past and present. Maintaining traditions and honor is important to any organization and can be a valuable tool in creating and maintaining an organization made up of many smaller units.
The Logistics Ball is just one way that Fort Sill's brigade support battalions maintain one of the best working relationships in the Army.
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