REDSTONE ARESENAL, Ala. (September 21, 2012) -- The U.S. Army Materiel Command Band received the Army Superior Unit Award in an official streamer ceremony here Thursday, Sept. 20th for their exemplary record for the 2011 calendar year.
Gen. Dennis L. Via, AMC Commander presided over the ceremony and fastened the ceremonial Army Superior Unit Streamer to the unit flag before an audience of band members, family and friends.
"While I'm sure the Huntsville community is glad to have AMC here, they are really glad the AMC band is here," said Via. "You are ambassadors for this command, as well as our Army."
Via continued by saying the award symbolizes the professionalism of not only their musical talents, but of their professionalism as Soldiers, as well.
During 2011, the band completed their musical mission in multiple locations while simultaneously preparing for and executing relocation from Aberdeen Proving Ground, Maryland, to Redstone Arsenal, Alabama, despite having significant personnel shortages.
"On the stage or on the field, your presence is always impeccable," Via remarked.
The AMC Band provided musical support to changes of command, full performances and promotions in Maryland, Alabama and AMC installations across the country.
The recommendation for the award stated that the AMC band maintained a rigorous training and performance schedule, moved from the Aberdeen Proving Ground training facility, endured critical personnel shortages among other obstacles. By successfully overcoming all these challenges in such a short time the band qualified for the Army Superior Unit Award.
"It's an honor to receive this award, but now the real work begins," said Chief Warrant Officer 4 Peter Gillies, Commander of the AMC band. "Awards and recognition are nice, but they reflect the past. We need to continue to improve and build our reputation."
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