Petraeus Re-enlists 1,215 U.S. Troops July 4 in Iraq

American Forces Press Service ^

[SandRat]

Baghdad, July 5, 2008 – Servicemembers from all over Iraq gathered here today in the Al Faw Palace rotunda on Camp Victory, to re-enlist and celebrate America’s Independence Day.

U.S. Army Gen. David Petraeus, commanding general, Multinational Force Iraq, reenlisted 1,215 U.S. servicemembers from all over Iraq July 4, 2008, during a ceremony in the Al Faw Palace rotunda at Camp Victrory in Baghdad. Photo by MNF-I Public Affairs  
(Click photo for screen-resolution image);high-resolution image available.

All 1,215 servicemembers celebrated by raising their right hand and pledging to continue defending the ‘land of the free’ in what is the largest re-enlistment ceremony since the all-volunteer force began in 1973, according to the Multi-National Force – Iraq Command Sergeant Major, Command Sgt, Maj. Marvin L. Hill.

“Volunteering to continue to serve our nation, while deployed – is both noble and inspiring,” said Gen. David Petraeus, commanding general, Multi-National Force – Iraq. “It is, as award citations often state, in keeping with the finest traditions of our military services.”

Petraeus presided over the ceremony and led the airmen, Marines, Sailors, and Soldiers in their oath to defend their country against all enemies both foreign and domestic on this day of celebration of America winning its independence.

"We recognize the sacrifices they make and the sacrifices their families and communities make as they serve in Iraq," Hill said. “These servicemembers know the cost of war and they are still re-enlisting.”

All together, the servicemembers pledged more than 5,500 years of additional service to their country.

“It makes me feel proud to serve this great nation,” said Spc. Zackary Cunningham, mechanic, 602nd Maintenance Battalion, Tactical Base Balad, who plans on making the Army a career.

The re-enlistees have every right to feel proud, according to Petraeus.

“You and your comrades here have been described as America’s new greatest generation, and, in my view, you have more than earned that description,” Petraeus said. “It is the greatest of honors to soldier here with you.”

[SandRat]

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[nuconvert]

Saw this on FOX yesterday!

[rabidralph]

Here's the video, below the 4th of July celebration in Iraq General reenlists the troops in Iraq

[mylife]

Salute!

[SandRat]

Has any of the other BlameStreamMedia reported it? Probably not.

[airborne]

The most patriotic news I’ve heard this holiday!

God bless each and every one of them!!

[Freedom'sWorthIt]

Saw this yesterday on the “Dose” thread! Tears then - tears now! What wonderful people we have serving this country in our military and in those wars! God bless them and their families and thank GOD for them all!

[Sigurdrifta]

A picture of this was in the Miami Herald this morning (7/5).

The caption read: “1,215 troops sign up for more” (IIRC).

I guess they just can’t help themselves.

[pissant]

Big BUMP for Petraeus and the all the warriors who re-upped.

[Salvation]

I don't remember who originally posted this, but I love it!

[FES0844]

takes my breath away!
Our military is awesome!!
May God bless & protect each & every one of them.

[Chgogal]

BTTT - Bookmark into Hero folder!

[ChiMark]

You’ll never see the drive-bys give any positive view of our military.

[Chode]

AGAIN...

[smoothsailing]

AWESOME!

[usmcobra]

I, state your name.....

I, state your name.....

[Publius6961]

Reading this thread reminded me that I missed not hearing God Bless the USA yesterday.
Sounds as good as ever...