BAGRAM AIRFIELD, AFGHANISTAN (July 21, 2016) -- In recognition and celebration of the 73rd birthday of the 10th Mountain Division, more than 300 service members, civilians, contactors and local nationals participated in a 10-kilometer run July 15.
The Fort Drum chapter of the 10th Mountain Division Association sponsored the event. Lt. Col Michael Stinnett, an engineer officer from Fort Drum assigned to the USFOR-A Engineer Cell, was the local organizer for the 10K run.
"Although it was a lot of work to put this together, it was well worth it. Thanks to the many volunteers and the support from the folks back home, we were able to fill all the logistical requirements and provide T-shirts to every runner," Stinnett said. "The support we get from the (10th Mountain Division Association) and from the Fort Drum community is just amazing."
Before kicking off the event, Col. Mark O'Donnell, 10th Mountain Division (LI) chief of staff, took a moment to recognize the accomplishments and contributions of the original mountain warriors who fought in World War II, as a slideshow played in the background highlighting all of the Soldiers who have died in Afghanistan since the division was stood back up at Fort Drum.
"The history of this division is incredible," O'Donnell said. "The nation and the Army recognized a need for a specific type of cold-weather mountain fighter during the buildup prior to (World War II). Cold-weather experts and ski instructors were hired as trainers to ensure Soldiers would not only be only to fight but also survive the mountains of Europe."
The 10th Mountain Division (LI) remains one of the most deployed headquarters across the Army. During the last year, service members representing every brigade-level and higher headquarters across the division deployed in support of operations around the world.
Command Sgt. Maj. Charles Albertson, 10th Mountain Division (LI) and USFOR-A (S) senior enlisted adviser, and Maj. Jesse Johnson ran the last several miles of the race carrying the division colors.
"The colors more than anything represent the blood, sweat, and sacrifice of the men and women who have worn the mountain patch on their shoulder both during times of peace and war," Albertson said. "Being a part of a team with such great history, whose ranks are filled with professional and dedicated leaders and Soldiers, has been the highlight of my career. Every Soldier should read and study their unit history to gain a better understanding of what it means to be part of not just the Army as a whole but part of that local unit and organization."
"This morning's run gave us an opportunity to share some of the history and background of the 10th Mountain Division with some of our co-workers and partners," O'Donnell said. "'Climb to Glory' is so much more than just a division motto; it is a mind set and spirit that every warrior who serves in the division is expected to cultivate."
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