FORT RUCKER, Ala. (September 22, 2011) -- U.S. Army Air Traffic Services Command welcomed Lt. Gen. Howard B. Bromberg, Forces Command deputy commanding general, for the annual mission training brief and a coin ceremony recognizing outstanding Fort Rucker Soldiers on Sept. 15.
The annual visit provides the opportunity for and ATSCOM, 164th Theater Airfield Operations Group other and units to inform FORSCOM about operations and planning, said Col. James R. Macklin Jr., commander of ATSCOM.
"The brief lays out what we've done in the past year and what we will do over the next year. It's great to have all of our supporting battalions and organizations here. They're able to brief him on everything we've done," said Macklin.
Another aspect of Bromberg's visit is preparation for ATSCOM Soldiers who will face combat in the coming months.
"For those getting ready to deploy, it's the last update before mobilization. We also get assistance with training," said Maj. Ron Spires, 2-58th Airfield Operations Battalion.
Macklin explained that the mission training brief also allows for an open dialogue between FORSCOM and reporting units, as well as the chance for Soldiers to ask about their concerns.
"He [Bromberg] is able to talk a about the future of the Army, so that we're able to really understand what's going on at the FORSCOM level," he said.
Bromberg briefly discussed budget concerns as well as reductions in troop levels, encouraging those present to ask questions about their lives as Soldiers. One issue he discussed was Soldiers having the initiative to take on new responsibilities as the Army makes changes.
"Don't wait for the Army to ask you. You've got to be aggressive about the leadership you take on in the Army. The Army is changing and we're going to be busy. " said Bromberg.
In addition to the briefing, Bromberg presented coins nine Soldiers from ATSCOM and its subordinate units.
"I just want to say thanks for what you're doing. All of what you do means a lot to me and to the Army. Thank you for your service, time and dedication," said Bromberg, before explaining to those present the importance of keeping faith in the Army mission.
The Soldiers acknowledged at the ceremony were Sgt. 1st Class Rick Hemion, ATSCOM; Staff Sgt. Curt Krenning, ATSCOM; Staff Sgt. Timmy Cain, 597th Ordnance Company; Sgt. Angel Torres, 597th Ordnance Company; Sgt. Angelique Marotske, 164th TAOG; Spc. Shane Johnson 164th TAOG; 1st Lt. Michael McDonald, 2-58th AOB; Staff Sgt. Carter Evans Jr., 2-58th AOB and Staff Sgt. Thomas Gaitlin, 2-58th AOB.
Macklin stated that they were chosen by their commanders for going "above and beyond the call of duty."
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