Story by Staff Sgt. Sidney Hoffman, ADT 5 Unit Public Affairs Historian Representative
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Col. Bob Hayter places a 3rd Infantry Division patch on the uniform of Staff Sgt. Blake Nicholson during Kentucky Agribusiness Development Team 5's deployment patch ceremony in Kandahar Province, Afghanistan, Jan. 24, 2013. This is the second deployment for Nicholson, but first with the Army. (KYNG photo by Capt. Joseph Fontanez)
KANDAHAR PROVINCE, Afghanistan -- The Soldiers and Airmen of Kentucky Agribusiness Development Team 5 received their official combat patch while serving under the 3
rd Infantry Division during a ceremony at Forward Operating Base Pasab in Kandahar Province, Afghanistan, Jan. 24, 2013. The day marked a very historical moment for many of our service men and women.
3
rd ID was established in 1917 and has been involved in war efforts since World War I. “Rock of the Marne” is a motto they inherited after their defense position in France along the Marne River and is still used today. It is renowned for being one of the most decorated units in our nation’s history.
Col. Bob D. Hayter started off the ceremony with January’s significance to a previous military historical event. Jan. 17, 1991 was the initial push of coalition forces to help Kuwait liberate itself from the Iraqi invasion. There were 34 nations in support of Kuwait’s defense, culminating in victory Feb. 24, 1991. This is significant for a few of our team members since they participated in that effort.
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Col. Bob Hayter places a 3rd Infantry Division patch on the uniform of Master Sgt. Connie Gwinn during Kentucky Agribusiness Development Team 5's deployment patch ceremony in Kandahar Province, Afghanistan, Jan. 24, 2013. After 33 years of service, this is Gwinn's first deployment overseas. (KYNG photo by Capt. Joseph Fontanez)
“There are four people here that were in the first Gulf War and some who have been on multiple deployments. This is a historic event for us all,” said Hayter.
“This is the first time I have worked side by side with the Army," said Staff Sgt. Blake Nicholson about the uniqueness of the unit as a joint forces operation with both Army and Airmen. "As my second deployment, this tour has allowed me to learn different leadership techniques, make new friends and most of all help rebuild Afghanistan.”
While some are on their second or even sixth deployment, others have spent their entire career without an opportunity to be a part of such a rewarding experience, such as Master Sgt. Connie Gwinn.
“After 33 years of service, being in the military is a reward, but being a true veteran is a special honor in itself,” she said.