2-5th Field Artillery deploys to Southwest Asia
January 16, 2014
By Spc. Joe Dees
The Soldiers of Task Force Charlie, 2nd Battalion, 5th Field Artillery assembled in the Rinehart Fitness Center Jan. 9 for their long awaited deployment ceremony. Friends, family, and the 'Leader Brigade' bid the 'Rock Hard' warriors farewell in the highest and most honorable way.
Much like a graduation ceremony, the Soldiers stood proudly before all, knowing that the previous four months of intense training were for this moment and beyond. Cross-training in fields outside of their typical artillery mission, the Soldiers of Task Force Charlie worked with great diligence to prepare for this deployment, and not one among them doubted their readiness.
'We always placed the mission first,' said Pvt. Frank Joseph. 'This ceremony was well earned, we trained hard and every one of us knows we are ready to get the job done.'
Day-in and day-out, nights and weekends, the Soldiers prepared, studied and practiced for the mission at hand. To work as an infantry task force, charged with providing security to a major U.S. base in Southwest Asia required the unit to develop tactics, techniques and procedures previously outside their typical fires mission, but this dedication ensured that even the short time frame would be sufficient for full mission readiness.
In addition to practicing infantry tactics, the Soldiers of Task Force Charlie also refreshed their knowledge of combat lifesaving techniques, drivers' training and base security techniques among numerous other disciplines. But perhaps most importantly, the Soldiers became a tight-knit and focused team.
'With such a short training time frame,' said 2nd Lt. Rod Palmer, 'we were most pleased to see such a diverse group of Soldiers come together to form a solid, unshakable team that is ready to accomplish this or any mission.'
The deployment ceremony seemed bittersweet for those being honored, the overwhelming emotions of pride for service were fringed with the complex embroidery of familial feelings. Recognition for their training and duty was hard earned and much deserved, but those family members soon to be missed looked on from the bleachers.
'We worked so hard for so long and it feels good to be recognized,' said Spc. Jeremy Adams, 'but I know I will miss my family. As ready as I am to go, I know I will miss my daughter's first birthday and son's first day of school, but we are Soldiers and this is our duty. We serve something greater than ourselves.'
This sentiment was echoed by Col. Andrew Preston, 214th Fires Brigade commander, who said in his address, 'we are assembled here today to not only bid farewell to the fine Soldiers standing before you, but also to honor them and their families for the sacrifice they are about to undertake for our country's unmatched, all-volunteer force.'
For many in Task Force Charlie, this was their first deployment ceremony, and the spotlight of respect boldly reflected their honor and confidence.
The recognition and respect given to the deploying Soldiers was much deserved, but nobody standing in the departing formation would allow the moment or pride to overcome them. The mission still stood before them like the American flag in the gymnasium and their duty to both was foremost on their minds.
'These four months have gone by so fast,' said 1st Sgt. Fale Tualamalii, 'and now that the time is here, I am more confident than ever that my Soldiers are a solid team that will always do the right thing and get the mission accomplished.'
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