The Iowa National Guard threw a bash to celebrate the upcoming 250th birthday of the U.S. Army at Camp Dodge in Johnston on Thursday. The soldiers and airmen of the Iowa National Guard came together for the festivity, complete with a bit of pomp, a touch of circumstance, and of course, cake. Adjutant General Stephen Osborn took the stage to shed light on the importance of this milestone, emphasizing how the Army has stood tall for a whopping quarter of a Millennium as one of the nation’s oldest and most enduring institutions. Osborn proudly pointed out that the Iowa National Guard’s roots date back to 1636, even before the inception of the Army itself, highlighting the deep connection between the two. He also made sure to mention the Air Force siblings, who share a proud lineage stemming from the Army’s early air power days and eventually branching out on their own in 1947.
Major General Osborn delved into the changes that the Army and the military as a whole have undergone over the past 250 years. He stressed the crucial lesson learned about prioritizing the well-being of soldiers and their families, emphasizing that readiness starts with taking care of people. Osborn drew parallels between the current Army and its historical counterpart, noting how both have embraced change to adapt to new challenges and threats that have emerged over time. He underscored the importance of continuing this evolution to uphold the trust that the state and the nation place in the military, urging a proactive approach to navigating the evolving operational environment. Osborn emphasized the necessity of seeking innovative ways to enhance readiness and meet the expectations set by civilian leaders, emphasizing the real-world implications of concepts like transformation and modernization.
The U.S. Army officially came into existence on June 14th, 1775, marking the beginning of a storied journey that has spanned over two centuries. As the Iowa National Guard commemorated this significant milestone, the event served as a reminder of the enduring legacy of the Army and the pivotal role it plays in safeguarding the nation’s security. The celebration at Camp Dodge encapsulated the spirit of camaraderie and shared history that binds the soldiers and airmen of the Iowa National Guard to their predecessors in the Army, highlighting the seamless transition and continuous evolution of the military over the years. With a nod to the past and a vision for the future, General Osborn’s remarks echoed the sentiment of resilience and adaptability that has defined the Army’s legacy, underscoring the need to embrace change and innovation in order to meet the demands of an ever-evolving landscape.
