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Patriots team up to celebrate lineage, esprit de corps

  • Published
  • By Capt. Antonia Greene
  • 174th Infantry Brigade Public Affairs
JOINT BASE MCGUIRE-DIX-LAKEHURST, N.J. --  More than 400 Soldiers, family members and colleagues of the 174th Infantry Brigade, First Army Division East stationed at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, N.J., gathered June 22 at Celebrations in Bensalem, Pa., to spend an evening of spirited camaraderie.

Col. Craig A. Osborne, 174th IN BDE, commander, stressed the importance of Soldiers bonding together.

"Our mission is demanding, preparing Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Coast Guardsmen for deployment in support of overseas contingency operations," said Osborne. "It is all the more important to take time to build esprit de corps and strengthen our personal relationships with one another."

Congressman Jon Runyan, represents the 3rd District of New Jersey and was present at the event.

"Connecting on a personal level adds to the success of any organization," said Jon Runyan. "Events like this are what's missing in much of the business world."

Runyan, a 14-year NFL veteran who played for the Philadelphia Eagles as an offensive lineman from 2000 to 2008, addressed all those in attendance. He spoke about team building and how the military and professional sports have much in common.

"What many of you may not know is that athletes look to you for inspiration and motivation," said Runyan. "It's always about the people on your left and right and no one exudes brotherhood like our armed forces."

Both Osborne and Runyan credited military families for their service and sacrifice, love and support.

"The people in this room represent what's best about our nation," said Runyan. "About once a week someone stops me and thanks me for what I do, but I'm here tonight to thank all of you."

Many Soldiers were escorted by their spouses or significant others. Additionally, several Soldiers invited their parents to experience and share in the pageantry and solidarity distinctive of an Army ball. Marine, Navy and Air Force senior service members and friends of the brigade also dined and danced, showing their support for their fellow joint base Patriots.

"This was the best military ball I've ever been to and I've been to many," said Sgt. 1st Class Kathleen Khan, brigade medical NCO in charge. "The venue was beautiful, the entertainment was great and the relaxed environment made for real quality time with peers and family. I hope we do it just the same next year."