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Soldiers and spouses from the 10th Army Air and Missile Air Defense Command and the 19th Battlefield Coordination Detachment were invited March 15 to enjoy the St. Barbara’s Day Ball at the Ramstein Officers’ Club.
The St. Barbara’s Ball is an annual tradition celebrated Army wide by Field Artillery and Air Defense Artillery Soldiers.
For many young Soldiers and their spouses, it was their first time attending a military ball, so it was important for them to have fun and enjoy the evening.
“It is important to take time and honor those who have served our country and branch admirably,” said Sgt. Maj. Manuel Mirabal.
When asked why the event was important, Mirabal said, “It is important to maintain the heritage and traditions of the Field Artillery and Air Defense Artillery for future Soldiers.”
The focal point of the evening was inducting Soldiers and family members who have demonstrated exemplary performance into the Honorable Order of St. Barbara and the Honorable Order of Molly Pitcher.
Molly Pitcher’s legacy can be traced to the American Revolutionary War. The name itself was a
nickname given to Mary Ludwig Hays for her efforts to support Soldiers engaged in battle.
Today, the Molly Pitcher Award is presented to women who have
selflessly volunteered and made great contributions to air defenders and artillerymen around the
world.
Among the nominees was
Lori Sweazey, the 10th AAMDC Family Readiness Support
assistant.
“It was surreal for me,” she said. “I do what I do because of what our Soldiers do for me on a daily basis.”
A rare treat at formal events, both the German and U.S. national anthems were sung live by Maj. Scott Hollander, 10th AAMDC assistant chief of staff, G1.
Maj. Gen. James C. Boozer, the deputy commanding general/chief of staff of U.S. Army Europe, congratulated the Soldiers and family members for their hard work while serving within the command.
“It is really exciting to see here tonight two distinct branches coming together,” Boozer said. “One of the first things that absolutely knocked me out of my seat was the partnership that we have with our Air Force brothers. It is unlike anything I have ever seen in my 32 years of service.”
The planning took several months, said 1st Lt. Matthew Cole, a unit movement officer.
“It was challenging, but at the end when you see everything
flow together as planned, when you see Soldiers and spouses having a great time, for me that’s how you know you have accomplished your mission,” he said.
