3CAB cases colors for deployment

3CAB cases colors for deployment

Reported By SGT D.McKenzie September 21, 2019

Col. Michael McFadden, left, and Command Sgt. Maj. Rob Armstrong, the command team for 3rd Combat Aviation Brigade, roll and prepare to case the brigade’s colors, signifying 3CAB’s transition into theater operations in support of the U.S. Army Europe mission and representing a new chapter in the unit history.

3CAB cases colors for deployment

Marne Air Soldiers from the 3rd Combat Aviation Brigade, 3rd Infantry Division, cased their brigade and battalion colors Sept. 13 at Hunter Army Airfield in preparation for their upcoming deployment to Europe.

The cased colors signify the brigade’s transition into theater operations and represents the start of a new chapter to be etched in the unit history.

“In today’s environment - more than ever - it is critical that we are ready to answer our nation’s call,” said Maj. Gen. Antonio Aguto, commander, 3rd ID. “Whether it’s our nation’s enemies, natural disasters, training, support or whenever they are needed, our CAB answers the call.”

The brigade will train throughout countries in Europe, including Germany, Romania, Turkey, Greece, Latvia, Lithuania, and Estonia; conducting multinational exercises focused on improving interoperability with their North Atlantic Treaty Organization allies and partners, Aguto said

“They are Europe’s decisive arm, a deterrent to any aggression and an integral part of NATO and our Allies plans,” Aguto said.

Chief Warrant Officer 5 Brent Melland, command chief warrant officer for 3rd CAB, gave the latest history that led up to the newest chapter in the Falcon Brigade’s history.

“We started with the division warfighter exercise in August through November; and we supported Hurricane Florence relief efforts for North and South Carolina by providing UH-60 Blackhawk command and control platforms,” Melland said.

While Marne Air Soldiers supported border support efforts forward in late 2018, rear elements assisted the 48th Infantry Brigade Combat Team complete training in preparation for their deployment.

“Throughout all the accomplishments, late hours of work, and time away from home during these busy 14 months, this all could not have happened without the love and support of our Families,” Melland said. “The 3rd Combat Aviation Brigade is trained, prepared and ready to conduct any mission regardless of when or where.”