FORT RUCKER, Ala. -- With their right arms raised, 12 Soldiers renewed their dedication to defend the Constitution when they reenlisted March 4 at the U.S. Army Aviation Center of Excellence headquarters.
Maj. Gen. James O. Barclay III, USAACE and Fort Rucker commanding general, said it was a proud day for him as a commander to officiate the event.
"We take pride of the fact this is an all-volunteer Army. It's about a group of individuals (who) voluntarily stand up and defend the nation," he said. "It's not easy to accept that kind of commitment."
Of the 12 reenlisted Soldiers, six serve with the 6th Military Police Detachment as firefighters or police officers.
Marc McDougald, Directorate of Public Safety deputy director, said the detachment has the most junior enlisted Soldiers on post.
At least one reenlisted MP took pride in renewing his commitment to the country with his fellow unit Soldiers.
"It's a great feeling knowing my brothers and sisters will continue to fight beside me," said Spc. Zachary Keller, a patrolman.
Others reenlisted because they loved serving in the Army.
"I love my job. When you love something, I believe you strive to be the best at it," said Sgt. Lorin Cooper, a 6th MP Detachment firefighter. "I'm in a position to teach Soldiers how to be great firefighters."
Spc. Jason Parson, a 1st Battalion, 13th Aviation Regiment chaplain assistant, had similar sentiments.
"I can't imagine doing anything else," he said. "My job is real versatile. I can visit Soldiers and give them a Bible study."
Still, others mentioned Families as the reason they continued their service to country.
Keller, originally from Oregon, soon changes stations to Fort Lewis, Wash., giving him a chance to be closer to his Family whose history of military service inspired him to be a Soldier.
"It's a big deal. You're doing something so your Family back at home can sleep at night," Cooper added, noting Soldiers' service allows Americans to enjoy simple freedoms like going to a playground safely.
Barclay mentioned the importance of Families, as well.
"We couldn't keep great Soldiers without Family support," he said.
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