FORT EUSTIS, Va. –
U.S. Army Soldiers, civilians and family members from across Fort Eustis gathered to celebrate the Army's 239th Birthday, June 13. The event included a concert by the U.S. Army Training and Doctrine Command Band, a ball and more.
The concert and streamer ceremony kicked off the celebration and were hosted by U.S. Army Lt. Gen. Kevin Mangum, TRADOC deputy commanding general and chief of staff. He also swore-in 46 future Soldiers during the ceremony.
"We are here to celebrate the Army Birthday; 239 years that your Army has carried the banner of freedom around our world for those oppressed," said Mangum. "We are celebrating those who have served, are serving and who will serve."
During the streamer ceremony Soldiers from the 7th Transportation Brigade (Expeditionary) dressed in period uniforms spanning from the Revolutionary War to current combat attire.
Those Soldiers presented a streamer to be placed on the Army flag.
By the end of the ceremony, 189 streamers hung on the Army flag, each representing a campaign that the Army has fought in.
"We reflect on the courage and sacrifice of Soldiers to bring peace and to guarantee our nation's freedom," said Sgt. Maj. Jose Velazquez, TRADOC Public Affairs Sgt. Maj., the event's narrator. "The Army continues to be America's force of decisive action as it stands as a shining light around the world."
The evening's events were not just a time to reflect on the past, but to celebrate the present and future of the Army. After the crowd sang "Happy Birthday" with the TRADOC band, Mangum joined the youngest Soldier at the instillation, Pvt. Natalie Peterson, 128th Aviation Brigade, and the oldest and youngest recruits and Soldiers cut the Army birthday cake together.
"Today's Soldiers, just like those in days past, refuse to accept defeat and are disciplined and committed to the Army values," said Velazquez. "The American Soldier is committed to our nation, the mission and fellow Soldiers."
Birthday festivities continued with a run at TRADOC and a ball at the Fort Eustis Club.