AUSA Day 1 – Opening Ceremony
PRELUDE
3rd United States Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard) Fife & Drum Corps
The United States Army Band Pershing’s Own
OPENING REMARKS
GEN Carter F. Ham
United States Army, Retired
President & CEO
Association of the United States Army
INVOCATION
Chaplain (COL) Jay S. Johns III
United States Army
Military District of Washington
KEYNOTE SPEAKER
The Honorable Ryan D. McCarthy
Acting Secretary of the Army
AWARDS CEREMONY
General Creighton W. Abrams Medal
Elaine Rogers
Major General Anthony J. Drexel Biddle Medal
COL Hugh McLeod III
United States Army, Retired
Lieutenant General Raymond S. McLain Medal
MG John L. Gronski
United States Army, Retired
Major General James Earl Rudder Medal
COL Olin Finley Brewster
United States Army, Retired
Sergeant Major of the Army William G. Bainbridge Medal
CSM Frank Minosky
United States Army, Retired
The Joseph P. Cribbins Award
Army Civilian of the Year
Craig Hannum
The AUSA Volunteer Family of the Year
The Ellwein Family
SGM Dianne Ellwein, United States Army National Guard
CW4 Fredrick Ellwein, United States Army, Retired
1LT Kaitlin M. Ellwein, United States Air Force
Tyler Ellwein
Austin Ellwein
The AUSA National Service Award
Team Rubicon
Chapter and Division/Command Awards
Transcript
[Announcer] Ladies and gentlemen, the Army leadership! (inspirational music) Ladies and gentlemen, please rise for the presentation of the colors and the singing of the National Anthem by the United States Army Band and Chorus, Pershing’s Own, conducted this morning by their leader and commander, Colonel Andrew Esch. Please remain standing for the invocation by Chaplain Colonel JS Johns the Third. The US Army Military District of Washington’s Command Chaplain, followed by the retiring of the colors. (traditional fife and drum music)
Halt! Halt three and four! Oh say can you see By the dawn’s early light What so proudly we hailed At the twilight’s last gleaming Whose broad stripes and bright stars Through the perilous night O’er the ramparts we watched Were so gallantly streaming And the rockets’ red glare The bombs bursting in air Gave proof through the night That our flag was still there Oh say does that star spangled banner yet wave O’er the land of the free And the home of the brave
Good morning ladies and gentlemen. Please join me in prayer. Eternal God, lord of time and eternity, giver of liberty, and sustainer of those that have the courage to fight for freedom. Gathered here today are strong and noble men and women who are dedicated to America’s Army. Each seeks to ensure readiness now. Each seeks to bring all available resources and talent to bear on investing in the future. As the association of the United States Army engages in collaboration and creative thinking this week. May each participant be encouraged, each organization meaningfully connected, and the entire Army enterprise strengthened as a result of these meetings. Thank you for the privilege of serving. Bless our warriors who are, even as we speak, standing bravely on our behalf in dangerous places across the globe. For the sake of our freedom and for our country do we pray, amen.
Amen. (Color Guard captain shouting) (traditional fife and drum music)
[Announcer] Please be seated. Ladies and gentlemen, the President of the Association of the United States Army, General Carter F Ham, United States Army retired. (audience applauds) (marching band music)
Good morning!
Good morning!
How ’bout a good hoo-ah?
Hoo-ah!
There we go all right! Chaplain Johns, thank you very much for getting us off to a good start. I don’t know how many times you or I have heard our national anthem performed. No one, no one does it better or more inspirationally than the United States Army Band and Chorus. Colonel Esch and team, thank you very very much. (audience applauds) I’ll have to confess that’s my favorite song. So Secretary McCarthy, General Ms McConnel, General Mrs. Lingyel, Mr. McFearson, General Mrs. Martin, SMA and Mrs. Gristen, thank you for joining us and to all, welcome to the 2019 annual meeting of your association, the Association of the United States Army where we never forget why we’re here. And that is to support America’s Army and its soldiers. Regular Army, Army National Guard, Army Reserve, their families, dedicated Army civilians. Your association supports retirees, veterans, and the incredible businesses large and small who provide the materiel and services that make the United States Army so great. For over 244 years, American soldiers have fulfilled their oaths in the service of our nation and for the past 69 years, the Association of the United States Army has been privileged to support the greatest land force on the planet today. Today in our audience, there are many soldiers and veterans who have served in harm’s way defending America’s freedom. We are honored, truly honored, to have each and every one of these brave women and men among us. I would though take my prerogative and single out two, two extraordinary heroes. Medal of Honor recipients Master Sergeant Leroy Petrie and Staff Sergeant David Bellavia. (audience applauds) (General Ham applauds) If you ever had any question in your mind what does Army strong look like, spend a minute with each of those two and you’ll clearly understand it. This room is full of giants this morning and I could spend the next couple of hours talking about each and every one so you’ll forgive me if I won’t do that. But these giants, these are the giants in whose footsteps we all have followed and so to recognize a couple. The 32nd Chief of Staff of the United States Army, General Gordon Sullivan. (audience applauds) And unless you’ve been under a rock, he has a minor affiliation with this association. (audience laughs) The 33rd Chief of Staff of the United States Army and a trustee in the AUSA Council Dennis Rimer. (audience applauds) SMA, I don’t know if they’re checking up on you or whatever but we’ve got the 13th, the 14th, and the 15th Sergeant Majors of the Army. Sergeant Major Jim Preston, Ray Chandler, and Dan Daly. (audience applauds) Secretary McCarthy’s got a big portfolio so he’s got a big team helping him. The civilian aides to the Secretary of the Army are assembled here tonight, ladies and gentlemen, thank you for what you do. (audience applauds) General Lengyel and others remind us that the Army always fights as a critical member of the joint force and we’re pleased this morning to welcome our brothers and sisters from the United States Marine Corps, the Navy, the Air Force, and the Coast Guard. Please stand and let us thank you for joining us this morning, well done, thank you. (audience applauds) (General Ham applauds) And America’s Army has since the very beginning relied on trusted allies in partner nations. Would all of the representatives of the more than 90 nations assembled here, the Army’s international partners, would you please rise and let us thank you for your partnership, your trustworthiness, and your service together. (audience applauds) So I was a little tempted, the Secretary’s speechbook is here, I could save you some time if you want. (audience laughs) We’ll save that for a moment but for now, please pay your attention, give attention, and listen and learn from the soldiers of the Military District of Washington. (marching band music) Call on heroes to carry the nation Soldiers to stand and lead Thank you for giving your lives for us Our warriors (upbeat rock music) Don’t give up Don’t be afraid Be afraid There’s a world out there that needs you You’re the brave The chosen few Chosen few Got your back We’ll make it through Hold on Heroes to carry the nation Soldiers to stand and lead Thank you for giving your lives for us Our warriors (upbeat rock music) Let’s stand up We’ll make a change Make a change It’s the thing we share We bleed too You’re the brave I’ll fight for you Fight for you Got your back on the battleground Hold on Heroes to carry the nation Soldiers to stand and lead Thank you for giving your lives for us Our warriors Hold on Heroes to carry the nation Soldiers to stand and lead Thank you for giving your lives for us Our warriors (upbeat rock music) Hold on Heroes to carry the nation Soldiers who stand and lead Thank you for giving your lives for us Our warriors (audience applauds)
Good morning, my name is Specialist Mark Ramirez from Houston, Texas.
I am Sergeant First Class Robert Canaly from Riverside, California.
I’m First Lieutenant Kelly Jeffries from Miami Florida. The Army of 2028 will be ready to deploy, fight, and win decisively against any adversary any time and anywhere.
We are transforming the Army to win in today’s great power competition. Our modernization will not just be about new equipment. We are also modernizing how we fight, what we fight with, and who we are. We cannot be an industrial age Army in the information age.
To stay at the forefront of a changing environment, the Army’s priorities remain readiness, modernization, and reform.
Persistent modernization must include delivering the six modernization priorities and implementing a 21st century talent management system.
The Army is developing a data rich information based approach to how it acquires, develops, deploys, and retains the right talent. Talent management enhances Army readiness by maximizing the talents of every person. The Army is people, people are the Army’s greatest strength and most important weapons system. People means soldiers in the regular Army, National Guard and Reserve, civilians, families, retirees, and veterans.
We would like to introduce you to seven outstanding soldiers who represent the talent, the leadership, and the strength of the over one million soldiers in uniform today. Please welcome them to the stage. (audience applauds) (inspirational music)
I’m Captain Travis Roland from Conrow Texas. I joined the Army because I was inspired by the service of my brothers. Like them I had a strong desire to defend our country and preserve the freedoms we continue to enjoy today. I’m honored to serve in the infantry and be the heart of the fight wherever and whenever. I’m proud to carry America’s faith and honor against her enemies and ensure mission success through close combat. As the Executive Officer of an infantry company in Kuwait I was responsible for logistics planning. My job was to ensure our 130 soldiers, 15 Bradley fighting vehicles, and 22 Humvees were ready to go at a moment’s notice. I’ve completed Ranger School, EIB, Airborne, and been selected to represent the infantry in live fire demonstrations for foreign dignitaries. Like those who’ve gone before me, I’ll assure my unit is ready to answer our nation’s call. (audience applauds and cheers)
My name is Staff Sergeant April Shocker from Guam. Coming from a family of patriots and as a Native American Pacific Islander from Guam, I am proud to be serving my country. My high school Junior ROTC program prepared me to sign up for the National Guard. After enlisting as a Signal Support Systems Specialist, I had the opportunity to become an Aviation Operations Sergeant. My daily mission in the operation support airlift activity is to provide support for Army fixed wing operations for all states and territories. My job has taken me to Honduras, Guatemala, Columbia, and the Philippines. I’m currently on a Title 10 Active Guard tour. The favorite part of my job was working for Army cells beyond the horizon humanitarian assistance program. In my spare time I am pursuing a degree in criminal justice. It wasn’t easy making the decision to leave Guam but it is an honor to serve my country and my island. (audience applauds)
I’m First Lieutenant William James from Pensacola Florida. I serve as a charge nurse at Walter Reid. My job is to supervise and support the nursing staff of one of our inpatient wards. They primarily care for general surgery, orthopedics, and our nation’s wounded warriors. The people I admire the most in my profession are the family members of all of our soldiers. They stand by them during the most trying times with unwavering support. My greatest supporter is my wife Maria James. She mentors me, advises me, and helps me keep my head up during tough times. As many of you may know, Walter Reid is a teaching hospital. This has given me the opportunity to teach and educate our new soldiers. In the future, I see myself working in the emergency room, being on the front line in the battle against injury and illness. I love to care for our Army’s number one priority, our men and women in uniform. (audience applauds)
My name is Sergeant First Class Chelsea Porterfield and I’m from Amarillo, Texas. I’ve accomplished many things in my 17-year Army career. Four deployments to Iraq, Afghanistan, and Israel. I’ve been assigned to Germany, Korea, and Hawaii. But my most rewarding assignment was a United States Army Drill Sergeant at Ft. Leonard Wood, Missouri. I got it, nobody likes a drill sergeant. But it’s my responsibility to mold soldiers and give them the tools and training that they need to fight and win. I live the Army values and instilled what it takes to live the Soldier’s Creed. No one is more professional than I. I am a soldier for life and I look forward to my next challenge and continuing to shape the Army of the future. (audience applauds and cheers)
My name is Sergeant Brendan Miller from Highland, New York. After 10 years of being a heavy equipment mechanic, I knew I needed a change. I loved hard work and getting dirty, but I wanted a career, not a job. In 2015 I volunteered for the Army and began that career. Today I’m a squad leader, supervising eight soldiers while training with the 911 search and rescue. We train in five areas: confined space, structural collapse, ropes, trench, and subterranean. We work with local search and rescue teams within the national capital region as well as the Mine University in Arizona, the Mine Safety and Health Administration in West Virginia and the regional All Climate Training Center in Wisconsin. With the support of my leadership, wife, and loving son, I’m pursuing a degree in construction management. I look forward to continuing to grow in my area of specialty. (audience applauds)
My name is Staff Sergeant Dora Sempio from Los Angeles, California, and this is my military working dog Eros. I am the older brother following my younger brother’s footsteps. He went to a recruiter and came home with some information that got me fired up. So my two best friends and I signed up and joined the Army. I have the best job in the Army, I get to handle dogs. I’ve been a military working dog handler for eight years now. I have been a trainer as well as an instructor at Joint Base San Antonio Lackland. I work dogs, I train in obedience, obstacles, controlled aggression, and detection in narcotics and explosives. I hope to be a recruiter and then a kennel master one day. The reward of seeing a dog with no training to a well-trained soldier in 120 days is amazing. My first kennel master and squad leader showed me how to prepare and continue to stay connected within my career. I have him to thank for this fulfilling and important job. (audience applauds)
My name is Sergeant Major Crystal Rheams from Raleigh, North Carolina. (audience applauds) You may recognize me as a musician with the United States Army Band Pershing’s Own or from a little TV show called America’s Got Talent. But what you might not know is I began as a logistics management specialist. I loved my job, but I also loved to sing. Five years into my career I was giving the opportunity to audition from Pershing’s Own. I had incredible support from my command group and they encouraged me to give it a shot. I’ve been a vocalist with the Army Band for 22 years. I also serve as group leader for the band Down Range. I travel the world representing the soldiers that fight for us every single day. I’ve also attained skills that would’ve been unattainable as a civilian. Each one of us represent the many jobs that are available in the Army. Whether it’s a culinary artist, engineer, cyberanalyst, journalist, or even a member of the First Armored Division. Each one of us are always first and foremost American soldiers. (audience applauds) (inspirational music) I’m just trying to be a mother Raise a daughter and a son Be a lover to their father Everything to everyone Up and at ’em bright and early I’m all business in my suit Hey I’m dressed up for success From my head down to my boots I don’t do it for the money There’s bills that I can’t pay I don’t do it for the glory Just do it anyway Providing for our future My responsibility Hey I’m real good under pressure Being all that I can be And I can’t call in sick on Monday When the weekend’s been too strong I just work straight through the holiday Sometimes all night long And you can bet that I stand ready When the wolf growls at the door Hey I’m solid Hey I’m steady Hey I’m true down to the core And I will always do my duty No matter what the price I’ve counted up the costs I know the sacrifice I don’t wanna die for you But if dying’s asked of me I’ll bear that cross with honor ‘Cause freedom don’t come free I’m an American soldier An American Beside my brothers and my sisters I’ll proudly take a stand When liberty’s in jeopardy I will always do what’s right Oh I’m out here on the front lines Sleep in peace tonight American soldier I’m an American soldier (upbeat rock music) Yeah an American soldier An American Beside my brothers and my sisters I’ll proudly take a stand When liberty’s in jeopardy I will always do what’s right Oh I’m out here on the front lines Sleep in peace tonight American soldier I’m an American An American An American soldier (inspirational music) An American soldier (audience applauds and cheers)
This is an exciting time for the Army. With new leadership, new technology, new systems, and new soldiers, we are truly ready now and investing in the future.
These young Americans standing before you today represent everything that is great about our amazing country. They come from all walks of life and all backgrounds and today, together, they will raise their hands and swear to support and defend the Constitution and join our great Army. Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome our Army senior leaders to the stage to administer the oath. (audience applauds)
Attention!
Please raise your right hand and repeat after me. I state your name. (soldiers murmuring) Do solemnly swear.
Do solemnly swear.
That I will support and defend.
[Unison] That I will support and defend.
The Constitution of the United States.
[Unison] The Constitution of the United States.
Of America.
Of America.
Against all enemies, foreign and domestic.
[Unison] Against all enemies, foreign and domestic.
And that I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same.
And that I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same.
And I will obey the orders of the President of the United States.
[Unison] And I will obey the orders of the President of the United States.
And the orders of the officers appointed over me.
[Unison] And the orders of the officers appointed over me.
According to regulations and Uniform Code of Military Justice.
[Unison] According to regulations and Uniform Code of Military Justice.
So help me God.
So help me God.
Congratulations, welcome to the Army. (audience applauds) (inspirational music) (audience applauds)
Wow, heroes to carry the nation. You may not recognize it, but just now we all witnessed the United States Army. We all witnessed the United States of America get stronger. (audience applauds) And I think Chief, I would recommend that maybe Eros is due for a good conduct medal. He did pretty good up here. (audience applauds) One more time ladies and gentlemen, great soldiers, thank you very much. Troops dismissed! (audience applauds) (upbeat rock music) (audience applauds) Not bad for your average Monday morning in Washington DC. (audience laughs) Not bad at all, special thanks to Major General Omar Jones, the commanding general of the Military District of Washington. Command Star Major Woodring, the soldiers of the old guard, our nation’s oldest regular Army regiment and the women and men of the United States Army Band and Chorus, you are each incredible. But you are collectively inspiring. Thank you very, very much, well done. (audience applauds) So ladies and gentlemen, it’s now my great honor and privilege to welcome the honorable Ryan McCarthy, the 24th Secretary of the Army here to join us at AUSA. He was sworn is as our Secretary just two weeks ago today so some of you might think that he’s new to the job. Not. (audience laughs) He was unanimously confirmed by the United States Senate as Undersecretary of the Army on August 1st, 2017 and immediately became Acting Secretary. Earlier this year he once again became Acting Secretary as Dr. Esper moved on to become the Secretary of Defense. He’s been immersed in Army matters for a long while and has been along with the Chief the driving force for change in our Army. He knows soldiers, he has the heart of a ranger. His genuine love of Army families shines through in everything that he does. But as much as it pains me, he’s not perfect. He comes from the Windy City. He’s a lifelong Chicago Cubs, Bears, and Blackhawks fan. (audience laughs) But we still love him, please give a warm Army welcome to the 24th Secretary of the Army, the honorable Ryan McCarthy. (audience applauds)
Good morning, General Ham, thank you for reminding me just how painful sports has been this year for Chicago. (audience laughs) If I could only go back three years ago. Very sincere thank you though to you and the AUSA team. Every year you outdo yourselves. So I’d like to extend a welcome and introduce the 40th Chief of Staff of the Army, General James C McConville, my wingman over the last– (audience applauds)
Yeah. (claps) My wingman over the last two years has been a steady hand on the E-Ring for the Army. It’s been 26 months, it’s been great. This includes thousands of repititions together making this time of significant transition smooth. And speaking of teams I’d be remiss not to mention Acting Undersecretary Jim McFearson, our Vice Chief of Staff General Joe Martin, and Sergeant Major Grinston. Gentlemen you’re enormously– (audience applauds) Yeah, thank you. (audience applauds) Enormously talented leaders that inspire me each and every day along with the million, over one million soldiers in our Army. We have two Medal of Honor recipients today, Sergeant Bellavie and Sergeant Petrie. Gentlemen, it’s an honor to have you here. (audience applauds) Additionally, please join me in welcoming the spouses and gold star families here today. (audience applauds) Your sacrifices are not lost on us and our country is forever in your debt. 18 years ago this week, the war in Afghanistan began. And almost two decades since, our men and women have been on the march facing the adversaries of our country. Every day we’ve been fighting the enemy and advising and assisting our partners all in defense of our nation and our way of life. All the while, Russia and China are investing billions to rapidly modernize their armies, increase their weapons systems’ lethality, and thus eroding US overmatch. Right this minute, Iran is purchasing and testing weapons systems from missiles to drones, threatening the surrounding shaky peace in the region. Violent extremist organizations in Afghanistan and Iraq continue to put pressure on the populace. Attacking, blending in, reconstituting, and then repeating. Our adversaries are investing in tomorrow, today. Unconstrained by a continuing resolution and singularly focused on shifting the current balance of power. The Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. said quote, “We are now faced with the fact “that tomorrow is today. “We are confronted with the fierce urgency of now.” In this unfolding conundrum of life and history, there is such a thing as being too late. This is no time for apathy or complacency. This is a time for vigorous and positive action. Tomorrow is in fact today. For the past two years, we’ve restored readiness across the force with over half of our BCTs at the highest levels of readiness. And as a nation at war, we will continue to keep these units ready for the foreseeable future. We have built the foundation to shift the Army’s modernization efforts and began the process of replacing the legacy systems that have served us well for the last 40 years. We have primed the modernization pump, drastically reducing the requirements’ timelines to 18 months or less and moving quickly from prototype to operational test. So we can prepare for low rate initial production. To fully realize the modernization strategy, we must have the FY 20 and 21 budget deal approved in order to have sustained investment necessary for pushing through prototype testing of systems to begin procurement of electronic capabilities to scale our formations. And we must invest in the cloud architecture. The Army will stay the course and our priorities of readiness, modernization, and reform are not changing. We are here to finish what we collectively started. First, the Army must invest as much in strategic readiness as we do in tactical unit level readiness. Because our NDO concept is going to dramatically change and we must address how we fight. The last 18 years of conflict built muscle memory in counter-insurgency, tested our leadership, and has heartened the force. With this focus came atrophy in other areas. We are now reengaging these muscle groups. Essentially, we can’t skip leg day. Going forward, we must put equal effort into proving our strategic readiness which is our Army’s capability to rapidly mobilize and deploy forces anywhere in the world and sustain the joint force. Multidomain operations is our fighting concept and it serves as the foundation of our Army modernization strategy. The MDO is how the Army supports the joint force and the rapid and continuous integration across all domains: land, sea, air, space and cyberspace. To ultimately deter and win the fight should deterrence fail. We began our multidomain efforts under the expert direction of General Rob Brown in the Indo PACOM Theater but we are challenged by the tyranny of distance and a gap of air and sea lift capabilities. Building off of last year’s historic integration of the task force in the Rim of the Pacific Exercise, multidomain capabilities have continued to be tested and validated through additional exercises and experimentation. A year ago, at Joint Base Lewis McCord, we activated the first intelligence information cyber electronic warfare and space detachment known as the I2Qs which serves as the core of the multidomain task force capability. We will continue to experiment with multidomain task forces in both European and Indopacific theaters to inform our future force development and ensure we are developing the right capability mix for each theater. The MDTF participate in exercise Orient Shield in September with the Japanese Ground Self Defense Force operating in the East China Sea. With its headquarters in Japan, the task force elements were distributed south across the Senkaku Islands, serving as an important validation of capabilities as we build the multidomain formations of the future. This exercise, know as Pacific Pathways, has evolved to a 2.0 version, adopting a hub and spoke model by deploying task forces to single locations for a longer period of time and executing dynamic force employment of task force elements to spoke locations. For example, in May, we deployed a company from a hub location in the Philippines to Palau. This was the first time United States Army forces had been in Palau in 37 years. We aren’t just training in these areas and departing with lessons learned. We have a presence in the region, strengthened by partnerships and tested through tough, realistic and habitual training. In Europe, this year Three Corps and First Armored Division conducted a no-notice emergency deployment readiness exercise. Demonstrating the Army’s flexible global projection. Less than two weeks’ time passed from the moment a soldier at Fort Bliss received a phone call to the moment they placed their weapon on fire alongside NATO counterparts at the Drawsko Pomorskie training area in Poland. In FY 20, the Army will conduct Defender 2020 to exercise, rehearse, and validate how we respond to a European crisis. This will be the largest exercise in 25 years. These forces will draw prepositioned stocks and establish communications on continent. 9C17s will fill the skies with waves of paratroopers demonstrating joint forcible entry, linking up with special operations forces and conventional host nation ground forces. Finally, in terms of readiness, we rely on Army installations. Army installations provide infrastructure for home station training as well as projection platform to mobilize, ship equipment, and deploy forces. We leverage our partners’ infrastructure as well. For instance, the Defender exercise prompted the Lithuanian government to invest in dual gauge rail cars, one example of our push for interoperability and driving European infrastructure investments towards a common goal. Second, the Army must invest in what we fight with or we risk losing the next war. The Wright brothers, pioneers of aviation, built three iterations of a glider while conducting hundreds of tests and modifications in the pursuit of flight. Six years passed from their initial glider design to a practical flying machine. Their success took patience of learning. Through testing and capitalizing on knowledge gained in each iteration. In the Army, innovation and industry are inextricably linked. Major General Benjamin Foulois, then a Lieutenant, flew the first military airplanes purchased from the Wright brothers. Six miles from this very building, the initial flight took place and ended in a crash. 10 months later, after the Wright brothers improved the engineering of the Right Military Flyer, Foulois achieved sustained flight. The Army purchased this airplane and named it Signal Corps Number One. From there the Army would invest in the large scale production of airplanes from the Wright brothers, developed training for pilots and mechanics, and created an organization capable of managing this new technology. The Army is one year into our new organizational culture that will help us manage our operating model to MDO. Pick the next weapons systems and it is yielding results. Under the strong leadership of General Mike Murray coupled with the partnership with Dr. Bruce Jette, our Assistant Secretary of the Army, for acquisitions, assistance, and technology, Army Futures Command has empowered the requirements community, brought precision to our research and development program, and have developed a modernization strategy with 31 signature systems. We are developing advanced systems and hypersonics. Directed energy and other tools to provide the Commander flexibility in MDO operations. Our new Army modernization strategy outlines our comprehensive approach. By combining the application of the MDO operating model, the Army can generate options for commanders and increase complexity for adversarial forces. US adversaries are operating largely uncontested in space and cyberspace. Recently in Afghanistan, I watched MDO information operations in action. I watched our joint and partner forces counter and defeat Taliban’s online operation in an attempt to create chaos. The adversaries claims of a tactical victory and towns under siege were quickly disproven through timely, truthful, and targeted messaging. The public could see for themselves local officials and partner leaders walking through the village square in realtime all via social media. A swift calm ensued in neighboring towns. The enemy, defeated in both reality and in their online narrative, fell silent again. The right message at the right time to the right people was the crux of MDO information operations and it is yielding results at the street level in Afghanistan like we have not seen in 18 years. If low tech adversaries are able to execute offensive operations in the virtual domain, imagine what great power competitors are able to launch against us. MDO allows commanders to rapidly build joint formations that are strategically positioned in order to fight and win across all domains including space and cyberspace. Big data and network security become the next battlefield. If we do not have a system in place, access to data becomes our No Man’s Land. A team equipped with integrated visual augmentation system, or IVAS as it is know, is currently in prototype and testing can turn hundreds of repetitions rehearsing kinetic operations at a safe and removed location. A system such as this, on target, has the ability to rapidly identify a target, call in air support, deconflict air space, and neutralize a threat precisely in seconds. Systems like this mitigate threat to our forces and integrates the joint force where every member is seeing the same site picture. Data moving rapidly paired with AI algorithms reduces the time span of decisions from minutes down to seconds and seconds in a firefight feels like an eternity. Seamless access to data in the cloud is the foundation for the entire Army modernization effort. Headquarters may know how much ammunition is in the inventory but those in the foxhole only understand how many rounds they are firing and how many they’re receiving. The intent is to move from the industrial age processes to the information age leveraging data as a strategic asset and utilizing private sector technology. The cloud serves as a system of systems moving at speed. It’s scalable and brings computational power into the hands of our soldiers. We will manage big data, employ AI-enabled tools in earnest without sacrificing security or cyber resilience. We intend to invest over $700 million across the FY ’21 to ’25 fitup. We now invest or face the delta between capability and threat in which our forces must close the distance at the cost of blood and treasure. Third, in order to maintain readiness and enable our ambitious modernization agenda in a flat fiscal environment, the Army must ruthlessly prioritize our resources to achieve our modernization goals. The 31 signature systems across all domains of combat and our Army priorities represent the future weapons systems of our future formations. We are in various stages of experimentation that are yielding results along the development continuum and we will scale them in our formations over the next five years. It will require more funding, that is why Army leadership will realign 10 billion across the Palm 21 in order to finance our ambition and be in a position to support national objectives for years to come. The only way the Army can accomplish this aggressive approach is through teamwork. The Chief, the Under, the Vice, Sar Major Nine operate as a team. Some could argue we’re the oldest and greatest squad in the Army. But make no mistake, we are a team. And building teams takes time, energy, and patience. We put down our phones and we look at one another in the face. We eat together, use each other as sounding boards, as a place to vent, to share good news, and help each other deal with adversity. We know each others’ families and we know each others’ aspirations. No one has to walk this journey alone from the most junior soldier to the most senior leaders. We will devote resources and energy towards combating the suicide epidemic as it is plaguing our ranks. Let’s be clear: we’re not gonna solve these problems from standing behind a podium. We need grassroots organic solutions ’cause one suicide is too many. I’m not sure who needs to hear this, but tomorrow wouldn’t be the same without you. We need every member of this team. If you have ideas, if you possess solutions, we are listening. We will build cohesive and professional teams at every level, we sill stand shoulder to shoulder against sexual harassment and sexual assault. These issues tear at the fabric of our organization, we will and must do better. The Army is also prioritizing five essential quality of life programs for families. Families are the bedrock of our teams. My teammate, General McConville, will talk more on people and the Army’s quality of life programs tomorrow at the family forum. In closing, the Army will stay the course and our priorities of readiness, modernization, and reform aren’t changing. We will collectively finish what we started. Please do take advantage of the leadership assembled here this week at AUSA. ‘Cause where else can you hear the Army’s senior-most leaders tell you firsthand their priorities, free from the shackles of PowerPoint slides. (audience laughs) Talk with our industry partners. Learn more about what America’s doing to remain ready now and investing in the future as we continue to be the most lethal ground force in the world. To industry, I ask that you take new approaches. Challenge the way in which people approach problem sets while remaining confident that our modernization priorities will remain constant. We are in the midst of a paradigm shift. Be open to change and the investment opportunities it holds. To Congress, I ask that you continue to support the Army divestment of legacy systems and push for a budget deal to help us maintain readiness and ensure that our modernization effort is successful. To the force, I ask that you build good teams and be good teammates. Know the people to your left and right. Help create and manage teams at every level. Know their families and motivations so that we may all realize our potential. To the families, thank you for your continued support and resiliency, you are the bedrock in this 245 year old experiment. All time great football coach Vince Lombardi said quote, “Winning is not a sometime thing, it’s an all time thing. “You don’t win once in a while. “You don’t do things right once in a while. “You do them right all the time.” Winning is a habit, and unfortunately so is losing. The world is complex and dangerous and in times of peril, the nation looks to the US Army and expects us to win. And win we shall. Thank you all for the great week and beat Navy. (audience applauds)
Thank you, Mr. Secretary. Hey folks unless you were sleeping, the Secretary has called us to action. And as your Secretary Chief SMA, this association, your association is on your team. We’re ready to do our part. Thanks for your leadership, thanks for a clear message this morning, we look forward to great years ahead for the United States Army. Thank you. (audience applauds) We’d like now to take a few moments to recognize excellence in our Army and in the Association of the United States Army.
[Announcer] To assist in presentation of AUSA’s National Awards, Lieutenant General Patricia McQuistion, United States Army Retired, Chair of the annual meeting, will join General Ham on the stage. Would Elaine Rogers please join us on the stage? (audience applauds) The General Creighton W Abrams Medal is presented to Elaine Rogers for her exceptional service to the United States Army. A tireless advocate for military members and their families, Elaine Rogers has dedicated herself to making a difference in their lives since she began her work with USO of Metropolitan Washington Baltimore in 1976. Throughout her tenure as president and CEO, USO Metro has grown exponentially and is now the USO’s largest global affiliate. The groups dedicated corps of volunteers has grown from 50 to more than 1200 people, serving a region with more than 300,000 troops and family members. She has expanded USO’s needs based programs and services. Providing emergency housing and food assistance and therapeutic and morale-building programs at area military hospitals. USO Metro also provides six recreational family centers and four airport lounges and is responsible for Operation USO Care Package, a global program that has delivered more than two million care packages to deployed troops. Her work continues as USO Metro is opening additional facilities for recovering service members, their families, and caregivers. In grateful recognition of her exceptional, steadfast, and dedicated service to the members of the US military and their families, we proudly present the General Creighton W Abrams Medal to Elaine Rogers! (audience applauds) He co-led a major study that focused on the future of the Association, replicating the characteristics of its most successful chapters. His extensive knowledge and connections within the community continue to provide tremendous benefits to AUSA’s mission. In recognition of his innovation and selfless service to AUSA’s mission, we proudly present the Major General Anthony J Drexel Biddle Medal to Colonel Hugh Sandy McCloud III! US Army Retired. (audience applauds) As the United States Army Europe Deputy Commanding General for the Army National Guard, he built positive relationships and set the standard for seamless integrated forces throughout Europe. His presence and personal involvement promoted readiness, increased operability, and enhanced the bonds among all components of the United States Army, our allies, and partner militaries. His tireless communication and outreach strengthened leaders’ understanding of and their confidence in United States Army’s ability to operate within a unified, multi component Army. Major General Gronski continues to play an integral role as a senior mentor for the Army’s mission command training program. It is with sincere gratitude and the highest regard for his service and dedication to his nation and the Army National Guard that we proudly present the Lieutenant General Raymond S McClain Medal to Major General John L Gronski, US Army Retired. (audience applauds) Would Colonel Brewster please join us on the stage? (audience applauds) The Major General James Earl Rudder Medal is presented to Colonel Owlin Findley Brewster, United States Army Retired, for his outstanding contributions to the advancement of the Association of the United States Army’s goal of a seamless multi component Army. As a United States Army Reserve Ambassador since 2006, Colonel Findley Brewster has made enduring contributions to the success of the Army and the Army Reserve. His dedication to soldiers began in 1966 when he was commissioned as part of the corps of cadets at Texas A and M University, where the president was retired Major General James Rudder for whom this award is named. Colonel Brewster served for 29 years in the regular Army and the Army Reserve leading soldiers as the Commander of the 587th General Supply Company and the 519th Maintenance Battalion and as Chief of Staff of the 90th Army Reserve Command. Upon retiring from uniformed and Army civilian service, Colonel Brewster volunteered for military and civilian support programs, identifying deserving youth for ROTC scholarships and federal grants and funding to help more than 500,000 Americans living in poverty within the Rio Grande Valley in southern Texas. Colonel Brewster is a charter member and past chairman of the San Antonio Community Action Committee that assists Army recruiting battalions. His work with his hometown recruiters helped propel the San Antonio Battalion into one of the Army’s top recruiting battalions. He also works with Our Community Salutes, a national nonprofit organization that supports high school seniors who enlist in the military. So far this year, they have recognized more than 1000 graduating seniors who enlisted in the military. In appreciation of his outstanding service and dedication we proudly present the Major General James Earl Rudder Medal to Colonel Olin Findley Brewster, US Army Retired. (audience applauds) Will Command Sergeant Major Minosky please join us on stage? (audience applauds) The Sergeant Major of the Army William G Bainbridge Medal is presented to Command Sergeant Major Frank Minosky, United States Army Retired, for his exceptional service to the noncommissioned officer corps. From the time he enlisted in the Army almost five decades ago, Command Sergeant Major Frank Minosky has selflessly served soldiers and their families. His service began as a paratrooper in the 82nd Airborne Division; he was promoted into the noncommissioned officer ranks in 1975. Throughout his career, Command Sergeant Major Minosky served in South Korea, Fort Bragg North Carolina and Hawaii. And ultimately as the Command Sergeant Major of the Third Brigade Combat Team, First Cavalry Division, Fort Hood Texas. Retirement didn’t end Command Sergeant Major Minosky’s mission of serving troops and their families. For 20 years, he has been a business development specialist with Workforce Solutions of Central Texas, which helps find jobs for veterans. He also conducts newcomers’ briefings at Fort Hood and developed an Adopt a Unit Program that has increased community partnerships. He helped build a team of volunteers with the Fort Hood Veterans Treatment Court, a mentoring program for veterans that gives 2000 hours annually in support of veterans with mental health challenges. His passion and advocacy for the program led to similar programs being developed across the country. In grateful recognition of his selflessness and commitment to advocating for the defenders of our nation and their families, we proudly present the Sergeant Major of the Army William G Bainbridge Medal to Command Sergeant Major Frank Minosky, United States Army Retired. (audience applauds) Would Craig Hanam please join us on stage? (audience applauds) The Joseph P Cribbins Medal is presented to Craig Hanam for his exemplary service to the United States Army. After serving as a military policeman for 20 years, Craig Hanam joined the Soldier and Family Readiness Center at Fort Huachuca, Arizona, where he serves the local community in a multidimensional job including suicide prevention, intervention, mitigation training and response and as employee assistance program coordinator. His work includes providing guidance and information to command teams at Fort Huachuca. His innovative methods have resulted in soldiers and commanders receiving support the accomplish their missions, a reduction of suicide attempts, and improved suicide prevention awareness. Mr. Hanam partners with area schools to educate their teachers and staff on suicide prevention and ways to detect signs of suicidal thoughts among students. He works with the Canyon Vista Medical Center in Sierra Vista and created the first suicide survivor outreach program, offering counseling and support to people who have lost loved ones to suicide. Mr. Hanam also works tirelessly to prevent and prepare for active shooter incidents. In 2009, he created an active shooter training program for the installation, worked with the Cochise County Sheriff to expand the program to the community, and tailored it to help train students beginning in the fourth grade. Through this program he has provided active shooter training, written emergency action plans, and created the installation emergency management plan for Fort Huachuca’s active shooter response team. He has made a lasting impact on the local community and the Fort Huachuca Soldier and Family Readiness Center. It is with profound gratitude and appreciation that we proudly present the Cribbins Award to Craig Hanam, a distinguished Army civilian. (audience applauds) Would the Elwine family please join us on stage? (audience applauds) The AUSA Volunteer Family of the Year Award for outstanding efforts to promote the wellbeing of soldiers and families is presented to the the Elwine family. The Elwine family spends their free time giving back and participating in activities that promote the wellbeing of soldiers and families. Over the past year, the family of five amassed thousands of hours volunteering in scouting, church, and civic causes. Meet the Elwine family, Sergeant Major Diane Elwine, United States Army National Guard. Chief Warrant Office Four Frederick Elwine, United States Army Retired, and their children. Kaitlin who is a US Air Force First Lieutenant, Tyler and Austin, they embody the spirit of volunteerism. Providing exceptional service to the Visboden military community. Sergeant Major Elwine serves as president of the United States Army Europe Sergeant Morales Club, supporting programs such as Angel Trees and Toys for Tots and offering mentorship programs and scholarships for local students. She also volunteers with Garrison Chapel Services, the Visboden High School community, and as a leader for Boy Scouts of America. Mr. Elwine is another exemplary leader in the Visboden community. He volunteered as the jazz band teacher for the Visboden High School when the students were left without a teacher. Dedicated to his students, he overcame physical challenges so the high school band could perform musical concerts for the community. Every member of the Elwine family has shown a willingness to go above and beyond to help others. It is with sincere gratitude and appreciation that we proudly present our volunteer family of the year award to this remarkable Army family. (audience applauds) Would Team Rubicon please join us on stage? (audience applauds) The Association of the United States Army’s National Service Award is presented to Team Rubicon for exemplary service and demonstrated enduring support to the soldier and the global community. Team Rubicon is an organization with international impact, giving veterans opportunities to use their skills and expertise in significant work. With its motto, “Built to Serve,” the nonprofit demonstrates its commitment to people. Responding to disasters and humanitarian crises around the globe, Team Rubicon’s first mission occurred in January 2010. Jake Wood and William McNelty, former marines, sprang to action, gathering supplies and volunteers, veterans, first responders, and medical professionals, and went to Haiti. As they crossed the Artibonite River, they called themselves Team Rubicon, inspired by Julius Caesar’s crossing of the Rubicon. They were committed to helping those in need. Relying on their military training, they helped thousands of survivors. Team Rubicon has grown to more than 100,000 volunteers. It is certified by the World Health Organization, the first North American nongovernmental organization designated as having a Type One Medical Emergency Team, indicating it can deploy on short notice to supply lifesaving care under austere conditions. Team Rubicon also responds here at home. When Clay Hunt, one of the team’s original members, lost his battle with post-traumatic stress, the group created the Clay Hunt Fellows Program to provide ways for veterans to heal and challenge themselves through continued service. It is with profound gratitude and appreciation that we present the National Service Award to Team Rubicon for its dedicated service to those who need it most. (audience applauds) (audience applauds) Next, it gives us great pleasure to present AUSA chapter awards. Ladies and gentlemen, the AUSA award for the largest membership for the 2018 2019 operating year goes to the Central Texas Fort Hood chapter. (audience applauds) Accepting the award for the Central Texas Fort Hood Chapter are Colonel Larry Phelps, United States Army Retired. Chapter President Major General Scott Elfland, the Deputy Commanding General Three Corps. And Command Sergeant Major Adam Nash, Command Sergeant Major Task Force Phantom. (audience applauds) We would now like to recognize our Army’s divisions for their outstanding membership accomplishments this past year. This year, the active duty division award for the largest active duty membership goes to the First Cavalry Division, Fort Hood Texas. (audience applauds) Accepting the award for the First Cavalry Division is Major General Jeffrey Broadwater, Commanding General First Cavalry Division. Command Sergeant Major Thomas Kenney, Command Sergeant Major First Cavalry Division. And Colonel Larry Phelps, United States Army Retired, Chapter President. (audience applauds) We have two awards to honor reserve components that through their participation and membership have been outstanding in support of the association’s mission of keeping America’s Army strong. The award for the National Guard division with the most AUSA members goes to the 42nd Infantry Rainbow Division, New York and New Jersey. (audience applauds) Accepting the award is Colonel Christopher Kronan, Rear Detachment Commander 42nd Infantry Division. The award to the major US Army Reserve command with the greatest support to AUSA, as measured by membership and active support to and from the chapters within the command’s footprint goes to the 80th Training Command Richmond Virginia. Accepting the award (audience applauds) is Brigadier General Aaron Walters, Commanding General 100th Training Division. (audience applauds) And now, presentation of the best chapter awards. These awards recognize those chapters who outstanding service to their members, their communities, and the Army, earn them the distinction of best in their class this past year. Their successes represent a team effort by the chapter and their local military and business leaders. We categorize our best chapter competition based upon size, individuals accepting the award will please do so on stage. The AUSA Council of Trustees Awards that recognize the best chapters overall from all categories go to the following chapters. For first place in the largest category, chapters which began the year with over 1000 individual, life, and community partner members, the winner is the George Washington Chapter! (audience applauds) Accepting for the George Washington Chapter is Colonel Retired Glen Yarbrough, Chapter President, accompanied by Major General Omar Jones IV, Commanding General Joint Force Headquarters National Capital Region, Military District of Washington. And Joint Force Headquarters Command Sergeant Major, Command Sergeant Major Richard A Woodring. (audience applauds) In the category of chapters with between 600 and 999 members, the winner is the Major General Harry Green Aberdeen Chapter! (audience applauds) Accepting for the Major General Harry Green Aberdeen Chapter are Colonel Retired Jim Costigan Chapter President, accompanied by Major General Mitch Gilgo, Commanding General US Army Communications Electronics Command and Aberdeen Proving Ground and Command Sergeant Major Frank Gutierrez, Command Sergeant Major US Army CCOM. (audience applauds) In our category of chapters with between 350 and 599 members, the winner is the Columbia River Chapter! (audience applauds) Accepting for the Columbia River Chapter are Sergeant Major Retired Jerry Glesman, Chapter President, accompanied by Brigadier General William J Prendergrast, Land Component Commander Oregon National Guard. Major General Retired Fred Reese, Retried Oregon Adjutant General. And Sergeant Major Scott Stimpson, Recruiting and Retention Operations Sergeant Major, Oregon Army National Guard. (audience applauds) In the category of chapters starting the year with between 200 and 349 individual, life, and community partner members, the winner is the Texas Capital Area Chapter. (audience applauds) Accepting the award is Major General Retired Robert Halverson, Chapter President. General John Murray, Commanding General US Army Futures Command, and Colonel Retired Gary Patterson, Chapter Executive Vice President. (audience applauds) In our category for chapters with less than 200 members the winner is the Charleston Chapter. Accepting for the Charleston Chapter is Colonel Retired Joe Trez, Chapter President. And Lieutenant General Retired Roger Thompson, Chairman Charleston Chapter Board of Directors. (audience applauds) In the best overseas chapter category, the winner is the General Creighton Abrams Chapter! (audience applauds) Accepting for the General Abrams Chapter is Colonel Retired Dave Fulton, Chapter President, Lieutenant General Christopher Cavoli, Commanding General US Army Europe. Command Sergeant Major Robert Abernathy, Command Sergeant Major US Army Europe. And Ms. Gemma McGowan, Chapter Vice President. (audience applauds) Would the representatives from the following chapters who were selected as runners up for best chapter awards please stand and be recognized? Fairfax Lee, Monmouth, Greater Augusta Fort Gordon, Rock Island Arsenal, Robert E Lee, Las Vegas, John C Freemont, Anne Stutgart.
Warning, 10 minutes. (audience applauds) This concludes our awards presentations. Please give them a warm hand! (audience applauds)
Yeah what an amazing group of leaders. That’s really pretty spectacular so thank you, thanks for all the national award winners and for our AUSA winners. Well done certainly across the board in supporting the Army. Well as many of you remember yesterday, which seems like a long time ago now, runners from around the world competed in the annual Army 10 Miler, hosted by the United States Army’s Military District of Washington celebrating the 10 Miler’s 35th running. And each year that race has grown in numbers of runners and of teams. It has become certainly a tradition of excellence. Your association, the race’s founding sponsor, was again the race’s lead sponsor along with KBR and AUSA national partner. This year’s run had over 35,000 registered runners in over 600 teams competing. Runners from all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and athletes and teams from many foreign countries. For those who were not able to either run or be a spectator yesterday, we have a special video to highlight the Army’s annual premiere athletic event. The 35th Army 10 Miler! (inspirational orchestral music)
Warriors, set! (gunshot bangs) (announcer drowned out by crowd cheering)
Runners set! (inspirational music) (crowd cheering) (inspirational music) (announcer drowned out by inspirational music) (crowd cheering) (inspirational music)
Let’s go, 2.5! (crowd cheering) (inspirational music) (crowd cheering)
[Announcer] He’s giving the crowds high fives, he’s smiling! (announcer drowned out by crowd cheering) (inspirational music) (crowd cheering) (crowd cheering) (inspirational music) (speaker drowned out by inspirational music) (audience applauds) (inspirational music) (audience applauds)
How ’bout that? (claps) How ’bout that, what a great day! A special thanks to Enzinga Curry and Pete Murphy, the video’s executive producers and the great team that put that together. You can get a copy of that video after one o’clock this afternoon at the 10 Miler kiosk at the AUSA Pavilion in Exhibit Hall A this afternoon. Some real excellence yesterday. The winner of the 10 Miler in the male category with the overall fastest time of 48 minutes, 38 seconds, I can’t drive it that fast. (audience laughs) 48 minutes, 38 seconds, Specialist Laui Lalang. (audience applauds) The winner in the women’s category is Specialist Elvin Kibai with a time of 54 minutes, five seconds. (audience applauds) To no one in this audience’s surprise, both winners are members of the All Army Team. Well done, well done, congratulations. (audience applauds) The top US military men’s team and the winner of the Commander’s Cup for 2019, the Mountain Postmen! (audience applauds) The top US military women’s team and the winner of the Commander’s Cup, the Fort Bragg Women! (audience applauds) Through excellence in everything that they do. Well ladies and gentlemen we’ve got an exciting and busy annual meeting for you this year. A number of new and exciting things in this year’s event. If you haven’t downloaded the app, you’re wrong, just download the app. It’ll tell you where everything is and who’s where and go to the Association of the United States Army in the App Store or on Google Play. Back by popular demand, Gary Sinease and the Lieutenant Dan Band (audience applauds) will be performing a free, operative word free, concert on Tuesday night right here, 7:30 to 9:30 and everyone who has a badge for the annual meeting is welcome to attend. It’s free, all right? (audience laughs) That’s not bad, 650 plus exhibits, military and industry booths, we have a full slate of events over the next couple of days. Make sure you go see the Army Esports Team and the Warrior Fitness Team demonstrating the Army’s excellence in brain power and in muscle power. The Army Exhibit is the showcase of the Army’s ideas for current and future force, for leader development, and the Army profession, spend some time at the Army booth and Warrior’s Corner in Hall B. Army Futures Command and Assault have a joint assembly area in Hall E. Installations Command Assembly Area is also in Hall B. The Joint Training and Doctrine Command and Army Materiel Command Assembly Area in Hall A. And for our veterans, the Department of Veterans Affairs once again has a pavilion in the exhibit floor, also in Hall A. Visit, learn, reconnect, be inspired. We’re glad that you are here. Have a wonderful couple of days here with your Army family, go Army, beat Navy. This concludes our Army opening ceremony. (audience applauds)