SHAW AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. –
It has been said that there is no greater love than to lay down one’s life for another. U.S. Army Central Soldiers, civilians, friends, family members and community leaders gathered in the hall of flags at Patton Hall to pay tribute to the brave souls who have made the ultimate sacrifice in support of our great nation.
Lt. Gen. Michael X. Garrett, USARCENT commanding general and Col. Joey T. Byrd, USARCENT chaplain laid a wreath to honor the service members who've died while assigned to USARCENT and its units over the past 100 years.
30,000 USARCENT/Third Army service members have given their lives in support of something greater than themselves and during the 100 days of honor phase of the units centennial campaign the chaplains decided it would be appropriate to honor the fallen. Wreath laying's are a ritual that occur around the world and are understood in every culture. Wreaths represent a circle of eternal life. The red, white and blue flowers represent life and resurrection.
“Today we honor all the men and women of Third Army who have fallen in combat. We honor their commitment to our country and their legacy of patriotism and sacrifice,” said Garrett. The wreath laying ceremony gave time to remember the sacrifice of every Soldier who has given all in support of the country and honor them for their selfless service and the families who also bear the burden of their sacrifice.
“Part of the role of the chaplain is to provide religious support out in the field with the Soldiers caring for them, nurture the living, care for the wounded and honor the dead. That’s what we’ve done with this ceremony is honor the dead [with a wreath laying],” said Byrd.
The ceremony was solemn as Lt. Gen. Garrett reminded the audience that General George S. Patton once said, “It is foolish and wrong to mourn the men who died. Rather we should thank God that such men lived.”