FORT STEWART, Ga. (Nov. 22, 2011) -- The Third Infantry Division was formed at Camp Greene, N.C., Nov. 21, 1917. A short eight months later the division found itself in France, defending a position from the Germans that would earn them the title "Rock of the Marne."
Through 94 years of service the Marne Division continued to live up to the title by defeating every enemy it has encountered from, Africa to Korea. The Marne Division simply will not allow defeat.
During the 94th Birthday celebration, those in attendance were reminded of what the division has accomplished through the years. Maj. Gen. Robert "Abe" Abrams, 3rd Inf. Div. commanding general, recounted the stories of some of the bravest Soldiers to ever serve with the Marne Division to include Audie Murphy, the most decorated Soldier in U.S. Army history.
"Our men and women wearing the Third ID patch carry forward the legacy and tradition of what it means to be a 'Dog Face Soldier,'" Abrams said. "And from what I have seen, I am confident the legacy is in good hands."
As part of the event, a cake was constructed by Sgt. Paul Harris, battalion senior cook, and Spc. Christopher Pope, a food service specialist, both with the 4th Brigade, 3rd Battalion, 15th Infantry Regiment dining facility. They were selected for the task by the Division food service advisor.
Not just any cake would do for an event as important as this. Harris and Pope didn't stop at a double layer sheet cake topped with homemade butter cream frosting. They also recreated the Division mascot, Sgt. Rocky, to adorn the top of the cake.
Their hard work was appreciated by all after the ceremonial cutting of the cake by Abrams, acting Command Sgt. Maj. Jefferson Moser, Chief Warrant Officer 5 Ray Noble, the oldest Soldier in the division, and Pfc. Trey Martin, the youngest Soldier in the division.
While Martin is a new Soldier to the Marne Division, having arrived only two weeks ago, Noble has served with the storied unit before.
"It's truly an honor to be a part of the celebration," said Noble. "I've deployed with the division three times and met some of the best Soldiers here within the division."
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