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Veteran's Day Service

"I want to remind you that your families and friends will be thinking of you frequently throughout the day. As they go about their business, they will undoubtedly be reminded of your absence and, at times, they may become somber or overtaken by a deep feeling of pride, because every street they drive down today will carry an American flag and every store will bear a poster of thanks to you, their loved one, who is risking your life to bring democracy to the free and sovereign nation of Iraq. Each of you, along with every person who has worn the uniform, is being honored by over 240 (million) Americans." These were the words of Brigadier General Jimmy Welch, Commander of the 194th Engineer Brigade, Tennessee Army National Guard as he spoke during a Veteran's Day program.

The affair included members of the Brigade's Headquarters and Headquarters Company and took place at the Ziggurat in the ancient city of Ur near the 194th's base camp in southern Iraq.

Veteran's Day was first observed in 1919 to acknowledge the November 11, 1918 signing of an Armistice Agreement ending World War I. Today the citizens of the United States celebrate Veteran's Day by honoring those who have served in the Armed Services.

Recognizing that many Veterans will remember their time in service to their Nation on this day, Brigadier General Welch said, "Each day you have worn the uniform since you swore oath of allegiance, is a day you have protected America. Many of those days were performed in sacrifice from your homes, families, loved ones and the safe haven of our own nation. And it is during the times of despair, when you are fatigued, dirty, hungry and cold that you carry-on without faltering, because in your subconscious, since your first day in the military, you carry with you dedication to your nation that produces a painful stomach-wrenching satisfaction in knowing our fellow Americans and your families depend on you. Let this resolve lift up your spirits in times of weakness; let it guide you through the turmoil which surrounds you in moments of duress."

The 194th Engineer Brigade mobilized in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom 04-06 in October 2004 and deployed to Iraq in December 2004. The Headquarters Company is from Jackson, Tennessee.

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Story and photos by SFC Pete Quinton, S-5/PAO,
194th Engineer Brigade (TA)
Tennessee Army National Guard
Tallil, AB, Iraq