Each December, Fort Leonard Wood in Missouri experiences an exodus of nearly biblical proportions, as thousands of troops, most in some phase of basic training, depart the base and head home for holiday leave.
They conduct a peaceful invasion of Lambert St Louis International Airport, as they begin to scatter around the country and beyond as they travel home.
It has been my privilege for each of the last 5 years to spend some time at the airport with these troops, showing support, expressing thanks, and documenting the event.
Jamie Allman, a local radio personality (you may have heard of him, as he occasionally fills in for Laura Ingraham) also serves as a board member of the James S. McDonnell USO at the airport. He’s broadcast his morning radio program from just outside the USO at the Exodus each of the last 5 years, and was in attendance once again - paying tribute to the troops for 4 hours on the air.
As I mentioned, most of the soldiers are in Basic Training. Some are just a few weeks in, and some are approaching the completion of their training and looking forward to their first assignments as soldiers. I talked to a number of soldiers and was impressed by these young men and women who, not all that long ago, volunteered and put their name on that line that says they can be called upon to put their lives on the line.
One young man from Maine was heading home after only a few weeks of training. He told me Boot Camp was hard, but he says he’s learning a lot and has done a lot of growing up. He expressed excitement at seeing his family – but he said he’s looking forward to serving, wherever it takes him – even though that may mean not seeing his family for some time.
Another young man was returning to his home in Puerto Rico. He teased about being on the beach while the Midwest is about to be gripped by winter.
Circulating through the crowd of young recruits were Drill Sergeants and Platoon Sergeants keeping track of their charges and enforcing the disciplines. Even though they’re heading home, while they’re in uniform they’re expected to groom themselves, and comport themselves, as solders. These NCOs will issue corrections if they find an unkempt uniform or a minor breach in decorum. Still, the soldiers speak of their Sergeants with affection and appreciation.
The troops were treated to Pizza, Monster and Red Bull drinks etc, and could have their pictures taken with Hooters girls etc. There was no lack of people showing their support. The Patriot Guard Riders provided 2 members who served as a color guard.
Former Iran Hostage, Rocky Sickmann, current Director of Military Sales for Anheuser Busch, is an ambassador for Budweiser’s programs that support the men and women of the armed forces. The recent renovations of the USO at Lambert were dedicated in his honor. Rocky has been a participant in the Exodus event for several years. He tells me that we need to express our appreciation for these young people who volunteer to serve and to protect us and our way of life, and we should never forget their dedication and sacrifice. After more than 30 years since his ordeal, he still feels the desire to give back to those who serve.
Along with a sea of Privates and their shepherding NCOs, there was enough brass in attendance to set off every metal detector in the airport! And to a man, they all expressed their admiration for, appreciation of and respect for the young men they command. I had opportunity to speak to Major General Leonard, commander of the Military Surface Deployment and Distribution Command at Scott AFB. A very humble and unassuming man for one who has attained such rank and responsibility, he expressed pride and affection for his troops. He is still awestruck by the young men and women of character who still volunteer to serve in this day of conflicts and uncertainty. After more than 30 years in the Army, he’s soon to retire from a lifetime of service – and yet he tips his hat to these young, raw recruits and their commitment to serve.
May these young men and women in green have a wonderful holiday season at home with their families. Soon enough, they will return from all directions to complete their training, and then be deployed to their various assignments. They go with our appreciation, our respect, and our best wishes.
See pictures from the event here: http://www.flickr.com/photos/39436131@N07/sets/72157628516349629/
Comments