FORT HOOD, Texas -- With a rousing “Hooah,” Soldiers from III Corps and Fort Hood, along with Commanding General Lt. Gen. Don Campbell Jr., celebrated the Army’s 236th birthday with the cake cutting ceremony in the West Atrium of the III Corps headquarters building June 14.
“I would just ask you to reflect on the historic significance of 236 years of service to our great country. When less than one percent of the American public serves, you represent what is honorable and what is noble about our great country,” Campbell told the Soldiers in attendance.
“The fact that you have stepped up to serve just like generations … before, …you represent what is absolutely fantastic and great about our country. I couldn’t be more proud as we stand here today celebrating this tremendous birthday,” Campbell said.
In keeping with tradition, the oldest and youngest Soldiers from the III Corps’ Special Troops Battalion joined Campbell and his senior noncommissioned officer, Command Sgt. Major Arthur L. Coleman Jr., to cut a massive cake prepared by the III Corps Culinary Arts Team.
The oldest Soldier, Maj. Timothy Forsting, a 63-year-old operation security manager with Company A, STB, III Corps, said he loves the Army.
“It keeps me young,” he said.
The youngest Soldier present, 18-year-old Pfc. Aaron L. Watts, a communications specialist with Co. C, STB, III Corps, said he was excited to get the opportunity to participate in the ceremony.
“The fact that I am the youngest and that I get to do this makes me feel good,” he said. “Not many people get to do this.”
In his closing remarks, Campbell reminded his Soldiers of their proud lineage.
“Never lose sight that this is a profession, and you are professionals,” he said. “This is a way of life and not a job.”
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