FORT BELVOIR, Va. -- Soldiers, civilian personnel and guests gathered at the Nolan Building for the U.S. Army Intelligence and Security Command's (INSCOM) celebration of the Army's 242nd birthday, June 14.

The event, which includes a special cake-cutting ceremony, is celebrated annually throughout the Army and typically invites the oldest and youngest members to cut a birthday cake with a ceremonial saber.

Brig. Gen. Robert Michnowicz, INSCOM's deputy commanding general, presided over the ceremony. He spoke about the Army's 242-year legacy and this year's birthday theme, 'Over There! Commemorating the World War I centennial anniversary and a celebration of WWI Soldiers.'

"Over There! Reminds us that our entry into WWI signified the beginning of a global security effort that continues today." said Michnowicz. "This effort also marked the beginning of a period of great development in equipment, Army organization, and critical growth in our intelligence profession that remains recognizable today in our current staff structure."

Bill Rogers, master of ceremonies for the event, introduced the cake cutting representatives.

"It is customary in the headquarters that the youngest and the oldest Soldiers cut the cake," Rogers said. "Representing the Army's future is 18-year-old private first class David Linares, human resource specialist, G-1, and our oldest soldier, sergeant major Peter Robles, G-1 sergeant major."

Robles and Linares joined Michnowicz, Chief Warrant Officer 5 Wendy Wayman, INSCOM command chief warrant officer, and Sgt. Maj. Roger Daigle, G-3 sergeant major, in the cake cutting ceremony. Following the ceremony, Michnowicz invited attendees to enjoy a piece of cake in the cafeteria.