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At events like these, we are simply never disappointed.
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Once again a heart thumping ceremony opened our 2009 meeting
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America's Old Guard Fifes and Drums
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As the colors departed, it was time for a formal Welcome.
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We first heard from Gen. (Ret.) Gordon R. Sullivan, as our national President
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… followed by Secretary of the Army John McHugh, who, in turn
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introduced Secretary of Defense Robert Gates. His remarks are available at www.ausa.org.
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The program moved to the presentation of National Awards
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Our delegation - nearly 300 strong - waited.
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Ron Taylor and III Corps CSM Arthur Coleman were invited center stage
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to accept a trophy as AUSA's largest chapter - thereby unseating Braxton Bragg.
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Ron Taylor returned minutes later to accept, on behalf of the 4ID, the trophy for the greatest growth in membership.
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The honor was earned at Fort Hood, and both Forts Carson and Hood were invited stage to accept.
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Then came the Association's top award - BEST CHAPTER.
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BEST CHAPTER - a single banner . But Oh what it represents
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And in a fitting conclusion to this Year of the Noncommissioned Officer
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AUSA presented its SMA Bainbridge Noncommissioned Officer Medal
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to "The NCO." A Soldier from the 101st Airborne Division (Airmobile) accepted on behalf of all NCOs everywhere.
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