By Spc. John Onuoha, 6-8 Cav., 2IBCT, UPAR
FORT STEWART, Ga. -- Parishioners of Saint Philips Baptist Church, Swainsboro, Georgia toured facilities of 3rd Infantry Division, Fort Stewart, Georgia, April 5, 2016.
"It's a way of teaching military history to the community," said 1st Lt. Joseph Berman, a cavalry scout platoon leader with Troop A, 6th Squadron, 8th Cavalry Regiment, 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Inf. Div. "It shows them what kind of assets we use and what we do. Building a strong relationship with people is important and it's a perfect way to connect with communities."
Soldiers of Trp. A hosted the tour, which featured Johnson gymnasium, the troop's motor pool, a weapon simulator, lunch in a dinning facility and Warrior's Walk; a memorial walkway with trees, flags, pictures of fallen 3rd Inf. Div. Soldiers and flowers on both sides in respect to heroes that were killed in Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom.
"Words can't express how it feels learning about fallen Soldiers," said Dr. Eric Robertson, a member of Saint Philips Church. "It's a huge sacrifice. I hope one day everyone would see it and appreciate Soldiers for their outstanding work."
Youth of Saint Philips Baptist Church saw a military installation for the first time and it showed them what life is like for their military neighbors.
"We have a lot of teens that haven't been exposed to things outside their community," Robertson said. "Tours like this are good opportunities to show teenagers something different that could inspire them to be better."
Members of the church talked about how fun and easy Soldiers made it for them to understand everything throughout the tour.
"I learned some amazing things and loved watching Soldiers teach the youth about combat weapons and vehicles, which included demonstrations," said event organizer Marilyn Mitchell, member of Saint Philips Baptist Church. "Not only did they acquire more knowledge on new things, they also enjoyed every minute of it and can't wait to tell their friends at home."
Teens of Saint Philips Baptist Church expressed their gratitude during the event.
"We don't get to do this often," said David Porter, one of Saint Philips Church's youth. "I appreciate how Soldiers treated us like we are family and made sure everything we needed was available."
Porter said the tour also gave him a better understanding of his family's military history.
"My grandfather was a sniper in World War II," Porter said. "I never really understood sacrifices of Soldiers till today. I'm so thankful for everything and will never forget."
Soldiers expressed gratitude to be acknowledged for what they do and how eager teens were to learn about their day to day duties.
"I'm glad to be a part of this event today," said Staff Sgt. Troy Casares, a cavalry scout with Trp. A. "Soldiers were very happy to participate in this tour and they enjoyed how the youth showed their passion for military."
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