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In the May-June 2003 issue of ARMOR, we were gearing up for Armor Conference 2003. For those of you who attended this year's conference, I hope it met your expectations. For those of you who could not attend, I have included some of the conference's highlights.
Our roster of keynote speakers was impressive in any discussion, and included Chief of Staff of the Army, General Eric Shinseki; Commanding General, U.S. Army Training and Doctrine Command, General Kevin Byrnes; Commanding General, United States Army Europe (USAREUR), General B.B. Bell; Commander III Corps, Lieutenant General Tom Metz; U.S. Army G3, Lieutenant General Richard Cody; and Sergeant Major of the Army, Jack Tilley. Retired Lieutenant General Paul Funk hosted the Armor Association Banquet and Lieutenant General Larry Jordan spoke during the Chief of Armor Luncheon.
General Shinseki reported that Global War on Terrorism operations have proven that our soldiers can fight and adapt while conducting simultaneous operations across the spectrum. In concurrent, synchronized operations, U.S. soldiers and Marines, along with our Allies, were engaged in a close combat fight and humanitarian operations, while rebuilding facilities and services throughout Iraq. In addressing the Objective Force, the Chief told us that the Army is on track, and he challenges every single member of the force to be engaged and excited about the future.
This was our Chief's last visit to Fort Knox in uniform. After 38 years of service as a cavalryman and tanker, he steps down and leaves a Transforming Army with irreversible momentum. He concluded with, "it has been a privilege to be your Chief, but more importantly, it has been a privilege to be a soldier." Well, we in the Mounted Force say, "Thanks Chief, it has been our privilege to serve with you and follow your lead!"
General Kevin Byrnes, U.S. Army...