FORT BELVOIR, Va. - As the sun came up at Fort Belvoir’s Nolan Building a sea of Soldiers, civilians, contractors and Family members laced up their running shoes June 14 as U.S. Army Cyber Command celebrated its first Army Birthday.
Approximately 105 participants, including members from 1st Information Operations Command, gathered for the one and one-half mile run, the first since the command’s inception. Lt. Gen. Rhett A. Hernandez, commanding general, Army Cyber, stood before the troops and spoke of how pleased he was to see the Army Cyber Colors displayed.
“Today is a historic day … together, we are all demonstrating Army spirit,” he said. “I am proud of you. Know you are a part of the most disciplined, fit and confident force in the world.”
As Army Cyber personnel ran the streets of Fort Belvoir in their unit formations, they waved colorful guidons and sang cadences, with the commanding general leading the way.
Following the run and walk, the participants gathered for refreshments and a traditional cake cutting with the most senior and junior Soldiers.
During the cake cutting ceremony, Hernandez honored Corrine Shovlain, 10, and daughter of Sgt. 1st Class Ryan O. Shovlain, who both participated in the run. Both received coins from the commanding general, along with Master Sgt. James Key of 1st IO.
“Corrine represents our future,” said Hernandez.
Lt. Col. Mario Torres was recognized for his work organizing the event and received a non-commissioned officer coin from Command Sgt. Maj. Roger P. Blackwood.
“Take advantage of the opportunity to grow this organization, no matter how hard it may seem sometimes. We all work together " Soldiers, Department of the Army civilians " we all do it with Army standards,” said Blackwood. “It’s not easy standing up a new command. Some day we will all remember, with pride, that we were here from the start.”
“Happy Birthday! Happy Flag Day,” said Hernandez. “You don’t look bad for 236 years!”
Social Sharing