REDSTONE ARSENAL, Ala. -- The threat of thunderstorms canceled Team Redstone's second annual Army birthday run June 10 but that didn't stop the party.
As an alternative, a 239th Army birthday cake cutting was held inside the Java Café, complete with music from the AMC Band's brass quintet.
"Looks like a birthday party," Gen. Dennis Via, commander of the Army Materiel Command, said upon arrival. "Good morning, everyone."
Retired Col. John Wright, AUSA's executive vice president, represented the Redstone-Huntsville Chapter of the Association of the U.S. Army which served as the event's sponsor. The chapter has more than 2,000 individual members and over 300 corporate members. Wright thanked the organizers for allowing the chapter to serve as host and then introduced Via.
"What a beautiful day, a great day. I regret we didn't get out running this morning," Via said of the unpredictable weather.
He said a lot has happened during the Army's 239 years. More than 90,000 men and women are forward deployed or forward stationed defending this nation's interests around the world, including in Afghanistan.
"In recognition of this great day, this great week, we celebrate our United States Army and its 239th birthday in defending freedom for our great nation," said Via, who has been in uniform for 34 years.
He thanked the men and women in uniform, the civilian employees and the contractors.
"Thank you for the tremendous support
Sgt. Maj. William Lewis, AMC's operations and logistics sergeant major, organized the event and served as master of ceremonies. This will be his last Army birthday celebration at Redstone as he completes his 24-month tour.
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