Casing of the Colors

For the first time in the history of the 115^th Signal Battalion the colors of the battalion where covered. The ceremony was completed with silence and pause. The soldiers of the 115^th knew the colors would be cased until they reached their final destination in Iraq.  The event marked the beginning of a year long mission. 

The ceremony took place at Fort Campbell, KY just prior to the soldiers boarding the plane leaving for Kuwait.

 On the 29^th of February 2004, at 1626 hours, the colors where cased.  LTC Cottles told the troops “This is a first for the 115^th.  Never have the colors or the soldiers of the 115^th ever been called to do what they are about to do.” LTC Cottles commented on the hardships the soldiers and their families where about to encounter.  LTC Cottles remarked he was very proud of each and every one of them.

 CSM Boatwright called the troops to “Attention to colors”. At that time LTC Cottles and CSM Boatwright slowly rolled the colors on their staff and cased them. Afterwards, Chaplain Thornton gave the benediction. Soon afterwards the soldiers of the 115^th boarded the aircraft for Kuwait.

 Left to right Sgt Brandon Straight, Lt Col Cottles, Sgt Helstrom, Sgt Kelsey, and CSM Boatwright.