Nighthawks!

 

First my congratulations. You have taken an opportunity, a new training model for deploying reserve component units, made it your own, made it work and delivered a measure of success that exceeded expectations. Well done.

 

I know train up has been stressful for you and your families. I’m proud of the professional way with which you focused on our mission and training. And I’m very thankful that you have had this break during the holiday to share this important time with your family. I know you made the most of that time.

 

There are no sets of values that more closely align than Army values and Family values. They are in my mind one in the same. As we meld these two lives, these two families even closer, I need you to consider your commitments to both. Neglect neither, keep your faith and live the Army Values and the Soldiers Creed.

 

Over the coming weeks we will be tried and tested. We will exercise to failure, pick ourselves up, move forward and do it again. Training, especially Army training, is by design repetitive and challenging. The collective training at Ft. Stewart will strengthen each of us and build a brigade combat team fully prepared to meet the challenges we will face.

 

The First Army training team, the 188^th and 205^th Training Support Battalions and Camp Atterbury, has given us their best. First Army will continue to drive our train-as-you-fight preparation with a wealth of resources, battle-tested trainers and a sincere concern for our welfare.     

 

Next, I am sure that over the past weeks each of you has been approached by members of the community, thanking you, expressing concern and best wishes. The state of Indiana makes no secret of its unwavering support for you and your families. Acknowledge that and never pass on an opportunity to thank them. They are the reason we serve.

 

Remember who you are. You are Nighthawks – Indiana National Guard Soldiers. Hundreds of years of history reveal that the American citizen-Soldier has defended our nation, sacrificed for a purpose and served with a dignity and honor befitting our trust. Soldiers know the importance of this mission. Execute your mission with the assurance that the histories of both Iraq and America will remember us for answering that call.

 

You bring with you a wealth of experience. Your instinctive ability to exemplify the Army Values is what makes you the best choice for this mission. You are American Soldiers – Nighthawks – members of a great team.

 

I’m proud to be with you.

 

Point the Way

 

Nighthawk 6