FORT JACKSON, S.C. -- Last week, I had the opportunity to join other Soldiers and company commanders of the 171st Infantry Brigade on a trip to the Gettysburg Battlefield. This was an awesome opportunity and a great learning experience for everyone.

I have been to Gettysburg twice before, and each time, including this time, I learn something new about leadership and the battle itself. There is much to be said of the history of this battle - history that comes to life through true accounts of courage on both sides. The vastness of knowledge is incomparable.

It was raining when we left for Gettysburg, and we were prepared for at wet, dreary day. As we neared Gettysburg, the clouds broke and our weather could not have been any more beautiful had we asked for such a beautiful day. Our tour guide was excellent, a former field artillery noncommissioned officer.

In just two hours, he flooded our minds with history of the battle and those of us who thought we knew a great deal realized what we knew paled in comparison to his vast knowledge of the accounts of this battle. He was, undeniably, a historian.

Brigade leadership decided we would have a group re-enlistment at the site where unparalleled courage was displayed in the Civil War: Little Round Top.

The hill was the site where Col. Joshua Chamberlain of the 20th Maine led a brave and heroic bayonet charge to save the Union flank. What better place to re-enlist NCOs who have proven themselves in battle' Where better to administer the oath where true leadership was displayed at a time when immoveable courage and honor was needed to "hold the line" and protect the Union'

Col. Karl Reed, brigade commander, and Master Sgt. Mark Kirkland, brigade retention NCOIC, personally exhorted the Soldiers to carefully examine the Army values and lifelong opportunities made possible through an Army career.

With today's unemployment numbers, we must examine the total package we have in the Army compared to the total package offered as a civilian. All of us serving today have to consider this. To see the emphasis placed on this mission by the commander was really awesome. I have never experienced heartfelt attention at this level before.

The re-enlistment took place in front of the most beautiful view overlooking the "Devils Den" area of the battlefield. The view was, in the words of Confederate Lt. Gen. John Bell "Sam" Hood, "the most awful ground I've ever seen."

But to us, it was a beautiful view overlooking deep green fields and great rock formations in clear view on a cloudless day. We were set for the climax of our day.

Nine NCOs lined up on the edge of the rock, and under the direction of Col. Reed, took the oath. Several onlookers pressed in to see what was taking place, and at the words "So help me God" ending the oath, they joined in with our applause. What an exuberant time for these Soldiers, one that I doubt they will ever forget.

I know I never will.