10th Mountain Division Soldiers receive combat patch
2nd Lt. Daphney Black
2-15 Field Artillery Battalion
AL ASAD AIR BASE, Iraq (Sept. 3, 2023) – Soldiers assigned to 2nd Battalion, 15th Field Artillery Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division (LI), received their Shoulder Sleeve Insignia for Military Operations in Hostile Conditions, also known as the combat patch, during a ceremony here Sept. 3.
Command Sgt. Maj. John Folger, 2-15 FA senior enlisted adviser, encouraged the Soldiers, saying, “This patch is yours now. No one can take it away from you. It doesn’t matter what role you serve. Whether you are on the staff planning operations, manning the guard towers or entry control point, or conducting patrols as a part of the quick reaction force.”
Folger also acknowledged the changing landscape of combat deployments and urged the Soldiers to embrace their role as the torchbearers of the next generation.
“You are the only Soldiers serving in the only brigade combat team currently deployed to a combat zone, and every other Soldier back home is jealous,” he said. “Over the next five to 10 years, combat deployments will be fewer and farther between, and the next generation of Soldiers will look up to you with an admiration I had for my leaders before 9/11 who had served in Desert Shield / Storm. Be proud of the patch and be proud of the sacrifice you are making to further freedom across the world.”
During this ceremony, Soldiers of 2-15 FA, also known as Task Force Redleg, formally received their division patch, which carries historical significance. The "powder keg" patch, characterized by its gunpowder keg-shaped base, symbolizes the explosive power of the division. The blue background and bayonets represent infantry, and the crossed bayonets form an X, resembling the organization's numerical designation.
Wearing a combat patch on the right sleeve, just below the U.S. flag, signifies a Soldier's service in a combat zone. This ceremony serves to connect Soldiers to the division's history and instill a deep sense of pride and purpose. It's more than just an addition to their uniform; it's a connection to those who have served before them.
Lt. Col. Russell Lemler, 2-15 FA commander, highlighted the historical context.
“In World War II, before the concept of combat patching, Soldiers who transferred between units started moving the patch of their previous unit to the right sleeve,” he explained. “This was a form of remembrance for fallen Soldiers, and to demonstrate that the wearer was a combat veteran, not an inexperienced replacement.”
The heartfelt sentiment was echoed by one Soldier, Pfc. Joshua Moore, who said, "I am so happy to finally wear the patch.”
Moore is a cannon crewmember assigned to B Battery, 2-15 FA. His sentiments reflected the significance of the deployment ceremony. For him and many others, this ceremony held immense significance as it marked their first deployment.
Several junior enlisted Soldiers from the formation had the honor of presenting the patch to Lemler, Folger, and Maj. Anthony Padalino, deputy commanding officer. These leaders then passed on the patch to the battery commanders and the chaplain, underscoring the unity and shared mission of the team.
As Task Force Redleg continues to serve as a force assisting allies and partners in support of Combined Joint Task Force-Operation Inherent Resolve (CJTF-OIR), the symbolism of the patch carries tremendous weight and significance.
Lemler expressed the collective pride in the Soldiers, reaffirming their commitment to their mission and the broader world community.
“What you have earned today is unique, and I know you will wear it proudly,” he said. “It is also something that nobody will ever be able to take away from you. So, look at your new 10th Mountain patch with pride and continue to earn it every day through, showing courage in the face of mortal danger, steadfastness, and loyalty.”
In separate, more personal ceremonies, Lemler, Padalino, Folger, and A Battery leadership took the time to individually present the patches to each Soldier on duty. Their words of pride and encouragement resonated deeply with the Soldiers, fostering a sense of unity and purpose as they continue to assist allies and partners in diverse environments.