Picture by SPC FV Rejano
Headquarters and Headquarters Battalion Page 6
O
By : 2LT Mylissa Johnston
n the evening of May 25th,
during Memorial Day weekend,
around 3,000 U.S Soldiers
stationed at Bagram Air force Base,
Afghanistan received a surprise visit
from Brad Paisley, an American singersongwriter and musician, and the Commander in Chief himself, Barrack
Obama. The Troops were brought together to see a surprise performance
by an unnamed musician. The evening
started at 1900hrs with an awesome
performance from the 10th Mountain
Division Band. Later in the evening,
moving into the introduction of the surprise performer; Brad Paisley moved
the large crowd of Soldiers eager for
some entertainment. Even though the
main mic experienced a few technical
difficulties, the 10th Mountain Band
was there to save the day with their set
up equipment and Brad still had time to
take some “selfies.”
President Barrack Obama was introduced by the ISAF Commander, General Joseph F. Dunford Jr. President
Obama delivered a lengthy 23 minute
speech, touching on a range of topics
from the accomplishments of the U.S
Troop’s in Afghanistan to helping
wounded warriors and veterans, going
on to say “it’s a sacred obligation.” Memorial Day coming up on Monday,
Obama touched on the unfortunate
events of Sept. 11th and resolved “to
never forget and do everything in our
power to prevent this from happening
again…this is why you are here… to all
of you, I’m here on a single mission
and that is to thank you for your extraordinary service.”
Obama’s surprise visit was truly a
unique experience, a moment in history
many Soldiers will never forget. At the
end of his speech, Obama would stay
to shake every Soldier’s hand. As the
some 3,000 Soldiers dispersed back to
their duties and responsibilities most would go back
with a sense of fulfillment. Over the next few days, as
tabloids will briefly mention President Obama’s visit to
Afghanistan before jumping to his upcoming events and
other political matters surrounding the President, those
who had a part in this event will re-live the experience
for years to come in stories to their families and friends.
On behalf of the Division Signal Company we thank our
Commander in Chief for his support and the hard work
from all who supported and worked to make this event
possible.