Visitors, family members, and future soldiers spilled over in the isles during the Army Community Covenant signing following the Denver Army Recruiting Battalion future soldier swear-in of more than 100 young men and women at the American Legion's Mid-winter Conference Jan. 27.
Longmont Mayor Pro Tem Gabe Santos and Senator Brandon Shaffer, a former Navy officer, cheerfully greeted the Denver Army Recruiting Battalion's next wave of future soldiers, offering up support and bits of advice before they embarked on their journey as soldiers.
With words of encouragement, Santos, Shaffer, and the American Legion promised that their Colorado community will be there for the soldiers and their families before, during and after their commitment to the Army.
"We feel that it is incredibly important to show our support to the men and women who serve our country and are willing to sacrifice themselves for our way of life and our freedom," said Santos.
Among the other designated signees were retired Maj. Gen. Steven Best, American Legion Department Commander James Gillis and National Vice-commander Mervin Gunderson. With the effort to commit to soldiers, their families, and the community and to signify the intent to promote that partnership, volunteer and spouse Carol Upton, wife of Sgt. 1st Class Allen Upton, future soldier Alexander Berlin, and Ferrie Bailey, senior recruitment manager of Union Pacific Railroad and Army employment partner, also signed the covenant.
Longmont has already implemented a community program to support service members, veterans and their families.
"The City of Longmont also recently started a program that offers passes to our indoor recreation facilities for those post 9/11 returning veterans. We are proud of this program, as it is just one of the small ways to thank our returning troops for their service and welcome them home to Longmont," said Santos.
The Denver Army Recruiting Battalion has over 270 soldiers throughout Colorado, Wyoming, Nebraska and Kansas. Many of those soldiers and their families, especially those not living on or near an installation, often turn to their local communities and organizations for support. The city of Longmont, among other cities like Colorado Springs, pledged its support that evening by signing the covenant.
Denver Army Recruiting Battalion Commander Lt. Col Dionne M. Wilson closed the signing ceremony with her signature.
"The common thread for the Army Community Covenant signing and the future soldier oath of enlistment is service -- service to country, our community and our fellow Americans," said Wilson.
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