By Miriam Rodriguez
WSMR Public Affairs
White Sands Missile Range celebrated the Army’s 247th Birthday June 14 in front of Headquarters.
WSMR celebrates 247th Army Birthday
White Sands Missile Range celebrated the Army’s 247th Birthday June 14 in front of Headquarters.
Garrison Commander Col. David Mitchell and Garrison Command Sgt. Maj. Devin Winnegan welcomed the WSMR community to the event.
“What a great day to be in the Army. It is a huge honor to be part of this team. Thank you for being here today and celebrate this day with us,” Mitchell said.
This year the U.S. Army celebrates 247 years of 24/7 global readiness and the service of the people who make that capability possible. The U.S. Army honors all who have answered the call since the Army’s founding in 1775.
People are the Army’s greatest strength and greatest weapon system.
Master of Ceremonies Jason Pingo said the mornings ceremony is a tribute to the over 1 million United States Soldiers who fought and died while answering their nations call to arms.
“The Army’s heritage is a tapestry of rich design deeply hued with the blood of patriots, embroidered with the deeds of bravery, service and sacrifice,” Pingo said.
“This year we also celebrate the 77th anniversary of the founding of the White Sands Proving Ground on July 9, 1945. An installation that soon became the birthplace of America’s space and missile activity and the 77th anniversary of the Trinity Site, where the first atomic bomb was tested on July 16, 1945, an event which ushered the world into the atomic age.”
Since its establishment in 1775, U.S. Army Soldiers, Families and Civilians have supported our nation and its Constitution.
Defending America 24/7 means equipping Soldiers with the world-class skills it takes to perform over 200 Army jobs. WSMR is in line with the Army’s priorities.
American Soldiers stand ready to defend our nation through any challenge, foreign or domestic. Defending America 24/7 means building cohesive teams that are trained, disciplined, and fit, and remain ready to fight and win our nation’s wars.
The ceremony ended with the cutting of the birthday cake by Mitchell, Winnegan, the youngest Soldier at WSMR and the most seasoned Soldier, followed by the singing of the Army Song.
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