Army’s 236th birthday: Courage, dedication has characterized our history

By Lt. Gen. Don Campbell Jr., III Corps and Fort Hood Commanding GeneralJune 11, 2011

Lt. Gen. Don Campbell Jr.
(Photo Credit: U.S. Army) VIEW ORIGINAL

FORT HOOD, Texas - On June 14, 1775, the Continental Army was established to defend our fledgling colonies and secure our independence from oppression. A full year older than the Declaration of Independence, our Army has played a vital role in the growth and development of the United States. Soldiers have fought in 10 wars, multiple actions throughout the world, and provided the sword and shield that have ensured our liberties and freedoms. Tuesday, we will celebrate the 236th birthday of our tremendous Army. As we reflect and celebrate the establishment of our incredible force, I feel we must look at what has made our Army strong and so resilient through the last two centuries " the dedication of our Soldiers and their families.

Throughout this nation’s history, our mission as an Army has remained constant: to preserve America’s peace and security and to defend the United States of America. We continue to do this at home and abroad by fielding the most disciplined, competent and fit force in the world and maintaining the bonds of trust that unite us both as Soldiers and Americans.

History has demonstrated that the strength of our Army is predicated on the strength and sacrifice of our Soldiers and their families. While our brave Soldiers have volunteered to defend our freedoms here and abroad, their families have bravely and selflessly supported our troops. Whether providing food and shelter to our dedicated citizen Soldiers during the War of 1812, or rationing food and metals during World War II, or taking care of the home and sending care packages overseas while we are deployed, our families have always done all they can to ensure our Soldiers knew they were appreciated, loved and supported.

A Soldier’s family has always made difficult sacrifices in support of our nation. They have moved with their Soldier as duty assignments change, they continue to run the home while their Soldier is serving abroad, and they persevere when their Soldier gives of themselves in service of the nation. The dedication of the Soldier’s family has always been, and remains, incredible.

As commander of III Corps and Fort Hood, I would like to use the Army birthday as affirmation of my commitment to our Soldiers and their families at the Great Place. I am committed to making sure that the military family is cared for, and I will continue to expand the great support agencies available to our Soldiers and families. From the Comprehensive Soldier Fitness Training Facility, to education services, to the expansion and improvements to the Carl R. Darnall Army Medical Center, my commitment to the care of those that serve is unwavering.

I will never forget the foundation of this great Army is built upon the bravery and sacrifice of extraordinary citizens and their families who put the good of others ahead of themselves. Those that have served and serve today are true heroes and continue to uphold the tradition of making this the best and strongest army in the world. From Bunker Hill to Baghdad, and from Cold Harbor to Kandahar, American Soldiers have been the safeguard of our nation’s freedom and shield from oppression for our friends and allies.

As we look to the future and recognize the challenges of this dynamic international security environment and the threats it may pose, we know that America’s Army and their families will confront each with the same unsurpassed courage, selflessness and dedication that has characterized our history for 236 years. I commend our Soldiers and their families and thank you all for our freedom.

Phantom Warriors!

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