REDSTONE ARSENAL, Ala. -- The U.S. Army Materiel Command paused to honor and pay tribute to its former Command Sergeant Major in a formal ceremony at the Bob Jones Auditorium here, Jan. 10.
Sgt. Maj. Ronald T. Riling retired after more than 31 years of service to the United States Army surrounded by dignitaries, friends and colleagues. He served as AMC's command sergeant major from Aug. 26, 2011, to Dec. 12, 2013.
"Although it's bitter sweet, it's truly a great day for our Army, AMC and the Riling family," said Gen. Dennis L. Via, AMC commanding general. "After I assumed command, there is no one I relied on more than Command Sergeant Major Riling."
Via said that it was Riling he could count on for candid advice.
"Because of his tremendous leadership, we've been able to handle issues before they became problems," Via said. "He epitomizes our Army values: loyalty, duty, respect, selfless service, honor, integrity and personal courage. He always led from the front."
But the quality that stood out most in Riling is his compassion, he said.
"It is his compassion and caring for Soldiers that makes him a great Command Sergeant Major," said Via.
Riling began his Army career in 1983 as a cavalry scout and during his three decades of service: he advised three four-star generals, deployed twice to Iraq, and guided commanders for 14 years as a senior enlisted advisor. He served with units at Fort Campbell, Ky.; Fort Bragg, N.C.; Fort Jackson, S.C.; Fort Polk, La.; Korea; Fort Riley, Kan.; and Fort Hood, Texas.
A Silver Star, Legion of Merit, and Bronze Star are just a few of the awards donning his Army Service Uniform. Riling earned the Silver Star for his actions in the town of Rammadi, where he and a team fought to rescue Marines pinned down by enemy fire. Although no Soldiers lost their lives, 12 Marines paid the ultimate sacrifice.
And it's sacrifices of Soldiers, sailors and Marines that humble Riling to tears.
"I have the utmost respect for the leaders and Soldiers that prepare themselves for deployments and support their families and communities," Riling said. "It's absolutely been my privilege and honor to serve with you. I will tell you it's been one heck of a ride. I only signed up for three years and I ended up staying 31."
As Riling prepares to hang up his uniform for the last time, he thanked all of the Soldiers that mentored him.
"Many of you sitting here today are the reason I'm here," Riling said. "The Army has been good to me, but what I'll miss the most is the people."
Riling concluded by reminding the audience of one key thing, "Never forget our Soldiers, because they are the reason we exist."
The Army Materiel Command band and the audience paid a final tribute by singing, "Old Soldiers never die."
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