KANDAHAR AIRFIELD, Afghanistan –
The Task Force Resolute retention office hosted a mass reenlistment ceremony at the Headquarters and Headquarters Company, Special Troops Battalion, TF-Resolute motorpool at Kandahar Airfield, Afghanistan, Oct. 24.
The five reenlisting Soldiers were Sgt. Phillip Spiniao, Sgt. Edwin Rodriguez, Spc. Rashaun Moseley, Spc. Ashford Turner, and Spc. Elmore Young III.
Each Resolute warrior received a reenlistment bonus totaling more than $17,000 between the five. Spiniao, and Rodriguez will get home station stabilization in their contracts, enabling them to remain at Fort Eustis.
"I made a decision a long time ago to make the Army my career," said Spiniao, HHC, STB, TF-Resolute mechanic, who reenlisted for an additional six years of service. "I know that serving my country is the best thing for my family, my battle buddies and myself."
"The Soldiers reenlisted at a time that is critical for the Army and all branches of service as the Army is reducing its number of Soldiers, and the days of receiving cash bonuses for reenlisting are coming to an end," said Sgt. 1st Class Nia Robinson, TF-Resolute retention NCO in charge. "Soldiers with certain military occupational specialties are being forced to choose new military positions to facilitate the Army's current requirements. These warriors are reenlisting at a critical time."
Robinson added that the Army is changing, and the new requirements for continued military service is going to continue to change.
"The process of reenlisting is changing as well," said Sgt. Dewana Thornton, HHC, STB, TF-Resolute retention NCOIC. "Before, it typically took anywhere from 15 to 30 days to complete, depending on each Soldier's situation, and the reenlistment options available for them. However, with the reduction in bonuses, and more limiting qualifications, it requires a more committed group of Soldiers to reenlist, Thornton added.
"Even though these outstanding troops are receiving bonuses, they are definitely not the large cash amounts we were seeing a few years ago," said Command Sgt. Maj. Tony Escalona, TF-Resolute command sergeant major. "These are quality Soldiers who are committed to service and excellence."