Chief of the Army Reserve visits 9th MSC Soldiers and families in Alaska

By Spc. Elizabeth Cole, 9th Mission Support CommandMay 24, 2011

Chief of the Army Reserve visits 9th MSC Soldiers and families in Alaska
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Chief of the Army Reserve visits 9th MSC Soldiers and families in Alaska
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Chief of the Army Reserve visits 9th MSC Soldiers and families in Alaska
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ANCHORAGE, Alaska - The Chief of the Army Reserve, joined by his wife, met with local Army Reservists and family members of the 9th Mission Support Command at Joint Base Elmendorf Richardson, here, April 30-May 1.

Lt. Gen. Jack C. Stultz and wife, Laura, were introduced to the Soldiers and families at a town hall meeting where he spoke on topics such as the budget and function of the Army Reserve.

In her opening remarks and introduction of Lt. Gen. Stultz, Brig. Gen. Michele Compton, commanding general for the 9th MSC, noted the impact he has on the Soldiers of the Army Reserve.

"He is very much an advocate for our Reserves and our family issues," said Compton. "We are very grateful to have him as he travels throughout the world and listens to Soldiers and testifies in front of Congress on our behalf. We are also very fortunate to have his wife Laura with us today. What I would like to stress about this couple is that they care about you and your families."

As Lt. Gen. Stultz addressed the Soldiers, he explained the importance of their roles in the Army as a whole, but also for the American people. He explained when he addresses Congress, he tells of the invaluable service the Soldiers provide.

"I tell the Congress and the American public that we have to understand what the Reserve Soldier does," said Lt. Gen. Stultz. "These men and women are willing to raise their right hand and take an oath to defend our country knowing they could be called upon to leave their families, jobs and homes to go and risk their lives and in some cases make the ultimate sacrifice. And that\'s a national treasure."

During their visit, Lt. Gen. and Mrs. Stultz made time to meet and enjoy lunch with families of the Soldiers.

"We were very lucky to get to spend time with Lt. Gen. and Mrs. Stultz," said Sgt. 1st Class Davina Francis, movement noncommissioned officer for the 9th MSC. "They really care about Soldiers and their families. I really feel like we are a top priority for them."

The weekend visit also allowed time to showcase some of the accomplishments of the 9th MSC Soldiers.

Lt. Gen. Stultz took time to promote several Soldiers and observe the consolidated Soldier Readiness Processing, an event to update Soldiers records and ensure deployment readiness.

As the weekend came to a close, Compton thanked both Lt. Gen. and Mrs. Stultz for making the trip to Alaska.

"We know the demands of your time," said Compton. "I am very pleased you and Laura were able to see the outstanding accomplishments of the 9th MSC Soldiers and to visit with and listen to the Reserve family members."

As a send off to the couple, Compton asked the 9th MSC Soldiers to stand and proudly yell the Command motto, "Pride of the Pacific."