Retired Col. Theodore Purdom and retired Master Sgt. Alonzo Rollins were recently named Honorary Colonel of the Regiment and Honorary Sergeant Major of the Regiment respectively during a regimental induction ceremony conducted by Soldiers of 502nd Infantry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division.
Distinguished member inductees included Command Sgt. Maj. John A. Brady, Maj. Michael Haith, Wayne Dugger, Jorge Otero and J.R. Martinez.
The regiment’s honorary members were Sgt. 1st Class Bryan K. Hardy, Darlene Castillo, Kelli Caldwell and Paul McConville.
Colonel Brett G. Sylvia, commander of Strike brigade, began the ceremony by recognizing the contributions of each of the inductees.
“In this ceremony we attempt, in some small way, to recognize the individual contributions that comprise this regiment,” Sylvia said. “In many ways, it is the tenacity of the individuals within this outfit over the past 74 plus years that defines this regiment, this brigade combat team, and who we all aspire to be as Strike Soldiers.”
Sylvia went on to talk about the history of the regiment.
“This summer we will celebrate 75 years since this regiment was established. And it was almost that long ago that it was determined that we would wear hearts on our helmets,” Sylvia said. “When we seek to encourage, to motivate, to endure, we tell people to have heart. It is the heart that compels us into action, shores up our courage, and drives us to never quit.”
That never quit attitude not only inspires Soldiers but also the civilians who worked within the regiment.
Kelli Cardwell, a family readiness support assistant, was overjoyed when she found out that she would be inducted into the regiment.
“It was a complete honor and I was taken back to all those who were inducted before me,” Cardwell said. “I didn’t think I was in the league of those who served before me. I’ve only known of two civilians who were inducted prior to me so this indeed is a great honor.”
Cardwell was assigned to 1st Battalion, 502nd Infantry Regiment in July 2007, and provided more than eight years of selfless service as a civilian employee.
Sylvia closed by thanking the newest honorary and distinguished members of the regiment.
“It is you who built upon the character of those who have gone before us. It is you who solidified the foundation with your service and sacrifice. You who gave this regiment the reputation it enjoys today. And you whose shoulders upon which we stand daily,” Sylvia said. “We are proud to be in your company, proud to call you brother and sister, and proud to carry forward the inheritance you purchased with your own blood, sweat and tears.”