Excerpts from an article by By Steven Donald Smith| American Forces Press Service
Army Lt. Gen. Helmly speaks at a National Capitol Reenlistment Ceremony April 6, 2006. Photo by Steven D. Smith
“These great American heroes swear and affirm that they will support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies foreign and domestic,” Army Lt. Gen. James R. Helmly, chief of the Army Reserve, said at the ceremony.
“The reading of the oath only lasts but a minute, but their pledge will last a lifetime.”
Why you may ask?
“It’s almost like I was born and bred to be a soldier. This is my life, this is what I love, this is where I want to be, this is my family,” Sgt. 1st Class Juanita Wilson.
“So that I can keep the training tradition alive, and train up the younger soldiers who are coming in, so that they’re combat-ready to keep defending this great nation.” Sgt. Joshua Frey, of Cleveland, Ohio.
“It was my duty to do so. I love the uniform and I love the Army. They’ve always been really good to me and I’ve had really great leaders,…There’s no better job to come to than the one that the whole country thanks you for.” Staff Sgt. Magdalena Rodriguez, of Hinesville, Ga.
“A duty to the country, and a responsibility to protect Americans and my family.” Staff Sgt. Aaron Knudson, of Rockford, Ill
Click here to read the article in it entirely. Click here to see additional picture from the 2006 NCRC.
