FORT DRUM, N.Y. -- "Allons" Soldiers and Family Members from 2nd Battalion, 15th Field Artillery Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, received a salute from the Northern New York - Fort Drum Chapter of the Association of the United States Army during a ceremony Aug. 17 at Division Hill on post.
The Salute a Unit program recognized several Soldiers and family readiness group leaders and volunteers for their outstanding contributions to their units, Families and the community.
"The AUSA Salute a Unit program is from your local chapter," said Tina Wildhaber, president of AUSA's Northern New York - Fort Drum Chapter. "The program was developed to recognize and honor the exceptional individuals within your unit. The program is unique to Fort Drum, and (it) was created by one of our board members."
Wildhaber explained that the salute is one of the oldest traditions in the Army, and it holds special meaning.
"Today's ceremony is a Salute to a Unit," she said. "The salute is not simply an honored exchange; it's a privilege and a gesture of respect and trust among Soldiers."
Some historians believe the hand salute began in late Roman times when assassinations were common. A citizen who wanted to see a public official had to approach with his right hand raised to show he did not hold a weapon. Knights in armor raised visors with their right hand when meeting a comrade. This practice gradually became a way of showing respect in early American history.
By 1820, the motion was modified to touching the hat, and since then it has become a hand salute used today. The salute is to show respect towards an officer, countries and their colors.
"This afternoon, the Northern New York AUSA carries the same great tradition as we show respect and salute the 2-15 FA," Wildhaber added.
The battalion set up several static displays throughout the grounds and gave a live demonstration to show what some Soldiers of 2-15 FA do for a living.
The Q-53 Radar was in position to track enemy indirect fire. Meteorological and Survey Team members collected accurate weather data. Members of the Colt Team, in their M1200 Knight Fire Support Vehicle, accurately located and designated targets at a great distance.
Mathematical and ballistic computations were made by the Fire Direction Center to provide the line safe firing information.
As these teams stood silently in position, the real noise came from the M119A2 howitzer. The cannoneers took up a hasty firing position and fired several rounds at their intended target.
Lt. Col. Christopher Wendland, commander of 2-15 FA, approached the podium and explained why the battalion was being recognized.
"Artillery is truly a team profession. Our cannoneers cannot fire their howitzers without the support of all the Soldiers in the battalion playing a role," he explained. "We wanted you to witness this today as a part of our salute to show that every Soldier has a pivotal role to ensure our rounds destroy their intended target on the very first attempt."
"From observing the target to analyzing the weather, to calculating the proper trajectory to pulling the lanyard as well as feeding our bellies, repairing our equipment, healing our cuts and bruises and even ensuring we get our monthly paychecks," he continued. "Each of these tasks must be accomplished by one of our Allons Soldiers, and we thank them."
"Behind every one of these Soldiers today is a Family Member," Wendland concluded. "Whether a spouse, sibling, children, parents and grandparents, they are the bedrock and the motivation to keep our Allons Soldiers in the fight. Thanks again, AUSA, for giving this opportunity to salute our Allons Soldiers and their Families. Let's Go!"
After the demonstration, awards were presented to the following: Sgt. 1st Class Chevalier Slaughter, food service NCO for G Company, 210th Brigade Support Battalion; Spc. Brent Schultz from A Battery, who volunteers as FRG key caller; Heather Houck, FRG volunteer for Headquarters and Headquarters Battery; Ashley Derossett, A Battery FRG co-leader; Lauren Stephenson, FRG volunteer for B Battery; Casey Lynn Stanton, FRG leader for 210th BSB; and Wendland accepted the AUSA Salute to a Unit plaque for the battalion.
Wildhaber reminded the battalion that the local AUSA chapter has many programs for Soldiers and Families on Fort Drum to participate in. They co-sponsor River Fest in Alexandria Bay and a Christmas party on post; supply refreshments at welcome home ceremonies; grant scholarships; and support Soldiers through the Adopt a Unit and Wounded Warrior Fund.
"We would like to remind you that AUSA is here as a resource for you," she explained. "Along with the Salute a Unit program, your local chapter provides many programs, events and educational opportunities for Soldiers and Families."
With the boom of the howitzers still resonating through the air, Wendland summed up the day with these words.
"The Allons Battalion is honored to be recognized by the AUSA Salute a Unit program," he said. "Great weather made the day nice, but the sound of artillery made today outstanding."
Social Sharing