Rock Island Arsenal New Year's reception

By Mr. Rhys Fullerlove (AMC)January 12, 2009

2009 Rock Island Arsenal New Year reception
1 / 4 Show Caption + Hide Caption – (Photo Credit: U.S. Army) VIEW ORIGINAL
2009 Rock Island Arsenal New Year reception
2 / 4 Show Caption + Hide Caption – (Photo Credit: U.S. Army) VIEW ORIGINAL
2009 Rock Island Arsenal New Year reception
3 / 4 Show Caption + Hide Caption – (Photo Credit: U.S. Army) VIEW ORIGINAL
2009 Rock island Arsenal New Year reception
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Rock Island ArsenalAca,!a,,cs historic Quarters One was rocking last week as more than 200 people ushered in the New Year.

Maj. Gen. Robert M. Radin, commanding general of U.S. Army Sustainment Command, and his wife, Sara, hosted a Jan. 10 reception celebrating the ArsenalAca,!a,,cs long history as a vital part of its surrounding community.

Local citizens, elected officials and military personnel were greeted by Maj. Gen. and Mrs. Radin and Command Sgt. Maj. Stephen D. Blake and his wife, Karen. The RadinAca,!a,,cs wheaten terrier, Mauri, reportedly added an enthusiastic welcome.

While Quarters One no longer houses the commanding general, it is a grand structure and the perfect site for a reception. Aca,!A"We are purposely using Quarters One for this event to offer Quad Cities residents a chance to come see this grand building and observe that this building has not been forgotten,Aca,!A? Radin said.

Organized into groups arriving over a period of three hours, guests met the receiving party, then moved to the dining room where a wide variety of hors dAca,!a,,c oeuvres and appetizers awaited them. Desserts were prepared by RadinAca,!a,,cs enlisted aide, Sgt. Alicia Hight - the ArmyAca,!a,,cs Enlisted Aide of the Year for 2008.

Aca,!A"It is wonderful that the Arsenal rolls out the welcome mat to the Quad Cities community,Aca,!A? said Rock Island Mayor Mark Schwiebert, one of several local mayors attending. Aca,!A"This is one of the premiere uses for Quarters One, as a venue for special events.Aca,!A?

The Radins were the last occupants of Quarters One, moving out after the Army determined the building needed extensive repairs. The historic mansion remained open for public tours in 2008 with some 6,000 people flocking to view the 1870s architecture. Quarters One has been home to 38 military commanders since its construction.