On behalf of our Regiment, I want to thank the people of Eindhoven and all of Holland for
remembering the 506th Currahees. Our unit is very proud of the accomplishment of the Currahee
veterans and of our recently resumed place in the 101st Airborne Division.
We are currently deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. The disciplined, professional
performance of our soldiers has been a highlight of our mission in Iraq. It reflects our legacy.
We are fortunate to have a great example to follow from the Currahees who helped liberate Eindhoven.
For example, when the Samarra mosque bombing took place back in February, our soldiers patrolled
with Iraqi security forces and kept our part in Baghdad, east Baghdad, secure when the tensions were the highest.
Our memory of the soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice in Holland gives us strength, inspiration
and the willingness to fight hard for our allies. Our troops understand how much of a difference they
are making for these formerly oppressed people. From our past, Currahees show us the value of freedom
in France, Holland and Germany.
As part of an Army initiative, we have benefitted from transforming into a life-cycle managed
unit - which trained together and stays together for 3 years. Our non commissioned officers and
junior soldiers have strengthened the bonds of the regiment by their depth of experience, commeraderie
for each other and commitment to the cause of freedom.
I'm so proud of all of the soldiers and their families. They have done an incredible job.
Also our veterans continue to watch over our wounded Currahees and support our army families in
so many ways. I thank the families for their patience and support as we help to bring freedom to
Iraq., fight the global war on terrorism and protect each other.
Again, thanks to Eindhoven for remembering and honoring the original Currahees. May you live in
peace, prosperity and freedom for ever.
Colonel Tom Vail
Regimental Commander
506 Regimental Combat Team
Baghdad, Iraq
dated 7 september 2006
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