KANDAHAR AIRFIELD, Afghanistan — Task Force Provider soldiers showed support for their fellow comrades June 25 during a ceremony celebrating the U.S. Army Chemical Corps’ birthday at Kandahar Airfield in Afghanistan.
The birthday celebration, which was hosted by Capt. Kathy Chavarria, the 3rd Sustainment brigade’s chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear officer, included participation from the unit’s CBRN specialists, Sgt. 1st Class Frankie Rodriguez, a native of Puerto Rico, and Sgt. Manuel Torres, a native of Bronx, N.Y.
During the celebration, Chavarria narrated excerpts of the Chemical Corps’ history, which dates back to June 28, 1918. The ceremony also included a video highlighting CBRN soldiers on-the-job experiences, followed by a cake-cutting ceremony.
“I think it’s important to render observation to the history and achievements of our branches so we may better educate others on how each are connected and needed,” Chavarria said.
Rodriguez, who agreed, said that celebrating his branch’s birthday while deployed is significant because it brings together soldiers and provides an opportunity to share an occupational specialty’s contributions to the Army.