FORT STEWART, Ga. (Nov. 21, 2014) -- The colors of the 3rd Infantry Division "Rock of the Marne," were cased for the sixth time, since 2003, in ceremonies held yesterday, at Marne Garden here.
About 200 Soldiers from the 3rd Infantry Division headquarters will be a part of the 9,800 U.S. troops that will remain in Afghanistan after NATO's International Security Assistance Force mission ends, Dec. 31. This deployment also includes a supporting element in Qatar and a liaison in Kuwait.
The casing of the colors is an Army tradition that symbolizes the movement of a unit to a new theater of operation.
"This casing ceremony represents the beginning of the next chapter in our storied history," said Maj. Gen. Mike Murray, 3rd ID commanding general. "It clearly demonstrates the confidence of our nation's leaders to rely on the Marne Division to be prepared to deploy on short notice, to support a broad spectrum of operations around the world."
Murray will lead Combined Joint Task Force-3, and serve as the deputy commander of U.S. Forces Afghanistan. Resolute Support -- the mission replacing Operation Enduring Freedom -- will begin Jan. 1, as U.S. and NATO forces transition from a combat role to a train, advise and assist mission.
"Today's ceremony not only recognizes the accomplishments of our headquarters, it also gives us a preview of our near future. This is not a traditional mission…but we have spent months working closely with our counterparts down range to ensure that we are prepared to execute our responsibilities," Murray said.
Those responsibilities include logistical, medical, sustainment, signal and fuel support for U.S. troops across Afghanistan as well as the physical security at Bagram Air Field.
Prior to the casing ceremony, the 3rd ID was awarded its third meritorious unit commendation for dedication to duty, immeasurable contributions and unequaled commitment to excellence, during the 2012-2013 deployment to Afghanistan.
"Many of the Soldiers from this rotation have moved on to other positions, but I would like to thank everyone who took part in this mission," Murray said. "I am honored and humbled to add this streamer to our colors on behalf of all those who contributed to this great accomplishment."
The Soldiers are expected to be deployed for 12 months, and will also be tasked with assisting with the drawdown.
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