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An early spring storm soaked the Panzer Parade Field here March 26, but it did not dampen the spirits of the Soldiers and civilians who attended the 21st Theater Sustainment Command’s first retreat and retirement ceremony of the year.
A retreat ceremony traditionally signals the end of the duty day. At Panzer Kaserne, the national colors of the U.S. and Germany are ceremoniously lowered and retired each day as a sign of respect to both countries and to their national colors.
The theme of the retreat and retirement ceremony was “Service to Our Nation.” It was also the first retreat and retirement ceremony held since Command Sgt. Maj. James Spencer became the command sergeant major of the 21st TSC.
“Nothing illustrates a Soldier’s commitment to service than a Soldier working hard day in and day out,” said Command Sergeant Major Spencer, who was also the guest speaker. “Today’s Army is the best trained, best led and most capable Army in our history. We continue to take on the many challenges that we face today with extraordinary skill and devotion.”
Command Sergeant Major Spencer recognized the service of Maryland native Sgt. 1st Class Lamont Gilliam, the non-commissioned officer in charge of the 21st TSC’s Netherlands Law Center, who is retiring after more than 20 years of service. Command Sergeant Major Spencer thanked Sergeant Gilliam for his service to the nation.
Sergeant Gilliam received a Meritorious Service Medal from Maj. Gen. Patricia E. McQuistion, commanding general of 21st TSC, during the ceremony along with the U.S. colors, a retirement lapel pin, a certificate of retirement and a certificate of appreciation signed by President Barack Obama.
“It feels wonderful. It’s a happy and sad feeling at the same time. Happy because I’m moving on and sad because I’m leaving the Army family that I’ve had for 20 years,” Sergeant Gilliam said.
Sergeant Gilliam said he will be returning to the Army family after he receives his doctorate in clinical psychology. He plans to work for the Armed Forces as a civilian military psychologist to help those struggling with post traumatic stress disorder.
