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STAND-TO! Edition: Friday, February 18, 2011

Today's Focus:

US Army Celebrates 50 Years of Kuwait's Independence and 20 Years of Liberation

SENIOR LEADERS ARE SAYING

"We have a long term commitment to Kuwait and this region. For the past 20 years we have proven that it is a commitment of deeds and not just words. The events over the course of the next few weeks will further illustrate that our partnership is strong, committed to peace, prosperity and our mutual interests."

- Lt. Gen. William G. Webster, commanding general, Third Army/U.S. Army Central

Kuwait kicks off month of 50/20 festivities at Qaruh Island

WHAT THEY'RE SAYING

"I have definitely become a more subtle, disciplined person by joining the military. I'll be the first to tell you I was a wild one when I came in. And coming into the military, having order and discipline ... it's just been a wonderful thing for me. I think the most important thing that I've learned is to be yourself. Be yourself, take pride in yourself, take pride in what you do, and respect those around you and they'll respect you."

-Sgt. 1st Class Theresa Abraham, who entered the Army as a single mother scraping to make ends meet and now is a role model to young Soldiers, thanks the military for her overall growth.

Black History Month: NCO makes the most of military career

A CULTURE OF ENGAGEMENT

TODAY'S FOCUS

US Army Celebrates 50 Years of Kuwait's Independence and 20 Years of Liberation

What is it?

February marks the 20th anniversary since Kuwait's liberation from Saddam Hussein's invading Army by U.S.- led Coalition Forces and also marks the 50th anniversary of Kuwait's independence from Great Britain. Throughout the month of February, the people of Kuwait are celebrating the occasion, which Kuwait has designated as its "Golden Jubilee" anniversary.

What has the Army done?

The U.S. was asked to participate in the parade by the Government of Kuwait. U.S. Central Command (USCENTCOM) designated Third Army/U.S. Army Central the lead with support from the Air Force, Marine Corps and Navy service components. Third Army, in coordination with USCENTCOM and the U.S. Embassy in Kuwait, will support with military vehicles, aircraft and an honor guard. A contingent from the 3rd U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard) will march in the parade, carrying the colors of the units who executed Operation Desert Storm. These units include USCENTCOM, Third Army, 7th Corps, 18th Airborne Corps, 1st Infantry Division, 1st Armored Division, 1st Cavalry, 3rd Armored Division, 24th Infantry Division, 82nd Airborne Division and the 101st Airborne Division.

Why is this important to the Army?

The participation of U.S. Forces in Kuwait's 50/20 celebration will highlight U.S. equipment and capabilities to Kuwait and the world community and will serve as a reminder of the considerable force the U.S. has at its disposal to promote peace and stability throughout the Middle East region and the world. It will also remind the international community of the historic significance of Operation Desert Storm and will further enhance the enduring relationship between the U.S. and Kuwait.

For 20 years, Kuwait has been a reliable ally to the U.S., providing indispensable support to our operations in support of operations Iraqi Freedom and New Dawn. Kuwait's support was critical to U.S. efforts in recent years to bring security and stability to Iraq after the fall of Saddam Hussein's regime. It is important to take the opportunity presented by Kuwait's 50/20 Celebration to honor the partnership between the U.S. and this significant strategic ally.

What efforts does the Army plan to continue in the future?

Third Army will continue to work closely with its host nation on Theater Security Cooperation events and bilateral engagements in order to build on the enduring relationship between the two nations and continue to promote stability and security in the region. Our participation in this event highlights the long term commitment to the Government of Kuwait and its people.

Resources:

Third Army

Third Army/U.S. Army Central Facebook page

Related article: Kuwait kicks off month of 50/20 festivities at Qaruh Island

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