FORT CARSON, Colo. - The 4th Infantry Division honored Soldiers of the 3rd Brigade Combat Team with a ceremony commending exceptional performance during the brigade's recent three-week training exercise at the National Training Center, Fort Irwin, Calif.
Maj. Gen. David G. Perkins, commanding general of the 4th Inf. Div. and Fort Carson, awarded division coins to 20 Soldiers in the presence of their peers during the "Iron" Brigade's Hero's Ceremony at the Garcia Gym Dec. 4.
The Soldiers are a representation of the entire brigade's diligence and hard work at NTC, said Command Sgt. Maj. Henry Williams, senior enlisted leader of the 3rd Special Troops Battalion, 3rd BCT, 4th Inf. Div.
When leaders recognize the hard work and accomplishments of outstanding Soldiers, it shows Soldiers what they do matters and gives their peers something to strive toward, said Williams.
Perkins also congratulated the brigade for its collective performance during its rotation to NTC.
The Iron Brigade was recognized as one of the best brigades to conduct operations at NTC during the last 22 months of rotations, he said.
"When this brigade deploys to an area, there is always a change in that area, and it's a change for the better," said Command Sgt. Maj. Daniel A. Dailey, 4th Inf. Div. and Fort Carson.
The Soldiers honored during the ceremony are a true testament to the lessons learned from leadership within the brigade, said 1st Sgt. David Gonzalez, Company C, 1st Bn., 68th Armored Regiment, 3rd BCT.
"Anytime one of my Soldiers can be recognized in front of their peers, it validates our training," said Gonzalez.
"It's an honor, but I owe it to everybody. Team leaders, squad leaders and platoon sergeants - I learn from everyone," said Spc. Ryan Clark, Company A, 1st Bn., 68th Armor Regt., who was recognized during the ceremony for the exceptional performance of his duties as a driver and radio operator. "When they say it's a team effort, it really is a team effort."
Before closing the ceremony, Perkins advised the 3rd BCT Soldiers to enjoy the holidays and come back well rested in preparation for their scheduled deployment to Iraq in March.
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