'Battle Ready' signs Marne Pride Pledge

By Elvia Kelly, Fort Stewart Public AffairsMarch 1, 2012

PLEDGE
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FORT STEWART, Ga. - The home of the Third Infantry Division hones on six principles reflected in the command philosophy. Of the six principles, the element of caring is encompassed in the Marne Pride Proclamation, an anti-drinking and driving pledge.

The 188th Infantry Brigade, Division East, 1st Army, a tenant unit at Fort Stewart, signed the Marne Pride proclamation, Feb. 23.

"It's about caring; it's one of our values," said Col. Kevin Colyer, 188th Inf. Bde. Commander, Div. East. "We care for Soldiers as leaders. I am proud to sign [the Marne Pride Pledge]. I think it will take our safety program to the next level."

The Marne Pride Proclamation signing reflects an agreement between a Soldier and the commander.

For Soldiers, the proclamation states that one will drive safely, will not drive if impaired, will not get in a car with an unsafe driver, will respect rules and will call his/her leader if a ride home is needed.

For leaders and commander, it states that he/she will be there for the Soldier and will be a good role model, leading by example.

"We are making a verbal contract that we're going to do this," Col. Colyer explained. "I'm telling you, if you get into trouble and you call me, you're doing the right thing. I might make you feel bad about it later, but I am certainly not going to crush you because you did the right thing. We have a contract. I told you to call me; I said that I would pick you up. To me, that makes a safety program and the commitment to the [Marne Pride] on an individual level."

The proclamation signing took place after a safety stand-down meeting, which included guest and Army Substance Abuse Program representative, Tammy James.