Support prepares Soldier for promotion, deployment

By Pat Young, Public Affairs SpecialistOctober 8, 2009

White
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FORT STEWART, Ga. </B>- A promotion ceremony held Oct. 1 at the Keith L. Ware Command Control Facility on Fort Stewart-Hunter Army Airfield recognized the capability and potential for greater responsibility of Sgt. 1st Class Garry P. White Jr., The ceremony demonstrated how many Soldiers remain Army Strong through Family support.

Sergeant First Class White's Family helped 3rd Infantry Division Commander Maj. Gen. Tony Cucolo promote him to sergeant first class, in the presence of his son Trajan, 6, and his daughter Mia, 7 weeks.

Sergeant First Class White, who made the promotion in nine years, nine months, said he was able to succeed and achieve through the support of his Family, co-workers and friends but noted the largest thanks was to his wife Linda, who stood behind him during it all.

"I am so proud of my husband," Linda said, noting that while he's home, he's a big help, but she understands he has requirements as a Soldier. "I know during their deployment that there may be moments, but I support his decision and mission. I know if I need something, support is available."

Sergeant First Class White said she was a pillar of strength in their relationship.

"I could not have accomplished what I have without my wife. She has been my 'Rock of the Marne' while completing three deployments and getting ready for the fourth. I love you, Princess," he said.

In addition to Family support, his peers and co-workers attended the ceremony to show their support, including 1st Lt. David Baez and Sgt. 1st Class Steven Dewitt, both 3rd Battalion, 69th Armor Battalion, who attended the ceremony to thank him for his efforts while at their unit, and to show their appreciation.

"I want to thank my fellow Soldiers from 3/69 for coming, especially since they are leaving tonight for (The National Training Center). We accomplished a lot together and I wish I could have seen all that training come together at NTC and throughout the deployment," Sgt. 1st Class White said.

Major General Cucolo said the promotion was an important one, noting the transition to senior noncommissioned officer, and marked the occasion with the reaffirmation of Sgt. 1st Class White's oath of enlistment.