e.t. 28:48
(The following is an Encore presentation of Talkback…originally broadcast on Sunday, May 28th, 2023.)
It’s Sunday of Memorial Day Weekend, America’s most solemn holiday, dedicated to the memory of those veterans who died in service of our nation. On Friday, June 2nd, Fort Bragg will become Fort Liberty – the only U.S. Army post in the country named for an ideal instead of a remembered famous soldier.
Colonel John Wilcox and Command Sergeant Major Gregory Seymour discuss the renaming of Fort Bragg to Fort Liberty and how and why the new name is perhaps the most fitting way to pay tribute to the pride, valor and sacrifice of the soldiers that have served there since 1918. Also how and why the tradition of the largest military post (by population) in the U.S. will be represented from the past and present to carry on into the future.
Colonel Wilcox and Command Sergeant Major Seymour also explained the special significance of the Sunset Liberty March – to be held in perpetuity very night at sunset – inspired by a similar ceremonial march over a bridge in Nijmegen, Holland honoring a World War II battle fought by 82nd Airborne Troops over the Waal River nearly 80 years ago. 48 members of the 82nd Airborne lost their lives. The Dutch have never forgotten the valiance and persistence of our troops in this costly but ultimately victorious effort!
Colonel Wilcox and Command Sergeant Major Seymour also spoke of the importance of our individual troops and squads as the backbone of the U.S. Army. They offered the response, relocation and reconstruction of the Fort’s Smoke Bomb Hill barracks and residence facilities as proof of Fort Liberty’s and the Army’s commitment to their well-being.
In closing, we offered all our prayers and hope for all our listeners a safe and meaningful Memorial Day weekend!
(The preceding has been an Encore presentation of Talkback…originally broadcast on Sunday, May 28th, 2023)