FORT POLK, La. -- The 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division (Light Infantry) cased its brigade colors during a ceremony at Fort Polk's Honor Field on September 3, 2015. The colors were cased in preparation of their upcoming deployment in support of Operation enduring Freedom.
The color casing ceremony is held to prepare a unit's flag for transfer to its new area of operations. Once the Patriot Brigade arrives in Afghanistan, it will uncase the colors and assume responsibility for the area that the Brigade will operate in.
Soldiers and leaders alike stood in formation as Col. Guy Jones, commander 3BCT, reminded everyone that the Soldiers in the brigade who are not deploying will continue to ready themselves for combat.
"Though we have all continued to forge ourselves for war over the last year since returning from Afghanistan, not everyone in the formation before you is required on the current mission," said Jones. "We all watch the news and the world situation is very unstable. This brigade combat team will continue to train and be ready to answer additional calls to arms."
Jones also offered gratitude for the sacrifices made by the families of the deploying Soldiers.
"Every time elements of the military deploy there are unrecognized heroes that stay behind and attempt to keep life the same," added Jones. "Our spouses, loved ones and families are often required to assume sole parenting, responsibility for additional bills, and maintain consistency all while trying to push back worry and concern for those that are in harm's way. On behalf of all those deploying and those that will deploy in the future, thank you for your sacrifice."
Congressman John Fleming from Louisiana's 4th Congressional District also recognized the sacrifices made by the Soldiers and their families.
"I would like to thank each and every deploying Soldier and their families for their commitment to our community and for facing the difficult tasks that lay ahead on their deployment," said Fleming. "I pray that each and every one of you will have a safe deployment and a happy reunion when you return home to Fort Polk."
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