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The Global War on Terrorism is an excellent exhibit. There are large photo and visual displays provided by the excellent Fayetteville Observer reporters and photographers who accompanied the 325th, 82nd ABN DIV into war in Iraq. One photo shows Johnny looking at an image of MAJ GEN. Swannack (former 82nd ABN commander) and COL. Arnold Bray (325th commander) walking past a mural on a school wall in Ar Rumaythah, Iraq (2 above, left). COL Bray is a Catholic and Johnny a Eucharistic Minister who served COL Bray frequently during the heat of the battle in Iraq. Amy also knew and was very fond of COL Bray and his family.
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These photos were taken inside of a replica of a WWII C-47, from which 82nd ABN DIV paratroopers jumped into war. Johnny walked us all through the "jump master process".... red light, green light, "Ten Minutes!" There was a sense of camaraderie between the SFC the jump master and the paratroopers in the black and white mural that was quite enjoyable.
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Remember Haiti in 1994? We do! SFC Proctor was PFC (Pvt. 1st Class, E-3) and promoted in Haiti to SPC (Specialist, E-4) after being in the Army for a year and a half. He was with 4th ID in Ft. Carson, CO. We talked about the 82nd ABN on their way to Haiti and were impressed with how their very anticipated presence on the way prevented a very messy situation. We loved the 82nd even then and hoped to be a part of them eventually.
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The sounds of the 82nd ABN Chorus can be heard throughout the last phase of the museum. Their chants and cadences are the same that the soldiers of the 82nd use today for PT (physical training) and for inspiration in general. The "Entrance Chant" and "Exit Chant", "American the Beautiful", "Airborne Medley".... are all so worth having. We own a copy... you can, too! Click on the "82nd ABN Chorus" above and check it out for yourself.
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A stone outside of the Airborne & Special Ops Museum in Fayetteville, NC, dedicated to the 325th INF REG (Johnny's unit). We're so proud to have been a part of such a wonderful group of soldiers. ALL THE WAY!!
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Airborne & Special Operations Museum
