FORT DRUM, N.Y. – Soldiers assigned to D Troop, 6th Squadron, 6th Cavalry Regiment, 10th Combat Aviation Brigade, 10th Mountain Division (Light Infantry), in collaboration with the 10th Mountain Division and Fort Drum Museum, hosted a professional development event to highlight the division’s storied history and honor the Noncommissioned Officers who have shaped its legacy.
Approximately 32 Soldiers, including 1st Sgt. Anthony Drake and Command Sgt. Maj. Christopher Tichenor of 6th Squadron, 6th Cavalry Regiment, attended the event with the intent to draw leadership inspiration from the past while strengthening esprit de corps among current NCOs.
“A large part of being a strong leader is having a strong presence,” said Drake. “Part of having a strong presence is confidence. Confidence in ourselves, our abilities, and our authority.”
Drake emphasized the importance of building that confidence by learning about the exemplary NCOs who served before them. During the museum tour, Soldiers learned about decorated 10th Mountain Division heroes, including Staff Sgt. Travis Atkins and Sgt. 1st Class Jared Monti, both Medal of Honor recipients.
Doug Schmidt, curator of the 10th Mountain Division and Fort Drum Museum, also spoke of a few other important heroes of the division, such as Tech. Sgt. Torger Tokle, who was killed in World War II while attempting to neutralize a German position with a bazooka, and Sgt. Francis Blais, who, after his machine gun squad was eliminated, captured 35 enemy Soldiers alone and facilitated the surrender of an additional 150.
After the guided tour, Soldiers had the opportunity to explore the museum independently and ask questions, fostering deeper connections between the division’s history and their own roles as leaders.
As the visit concluded, Tichenor addressed the group, encouraging them to reflect on the legacy they are now part of.
“You’ve got a great impact,” said Tichenor. “You get to choose your own adventure and the impact you have. A positive impact that motivates a Soldier to continue their service or transition out and contribute greatly to society.”
The event aimed to instill a deeper sense of pride, morale, and cohesion while reinforcing the critical role of NCOs as the backbone of the U.S. Army.
Social Sharing