In my last communiqué, I announced that I was pleased with the way 2019 was progressing for the Organization, as measured by benefits provided to the Military Intelligence Corps. The MICA website is working well as the tool of choice for Chapter communications, MICA Events, Awards Processing, and Online Shopping. Speaking of shopping, I encourage you to visit the Military Intelligence Museum and MICA Gift Store when you visit Fort Huachuca.
This edition of The Vanguard captures MI Corps events over the past six months including MI Hall of Fame activities, the MI Corps Change of Command, Education Scholarship Awards, and the recent commemoration and Knowlton awards ceremony that the 259th Expeditionary MI Brigade (E-MIB) hosted in Washington State. It also includes two book reviews and highlights key events in MI History.
This paragraph is a repeat of the one in the last edition. MICA still has a healthy inventory of the 504th MI Brigade painting “In Truth Lies Victory” and is offering them for sale. MICA was honored to participate in the historic unveiling of the 504th “Always Ready” Brigade painting in February. The Brigade has left its footprint on the path of American History since the formation of the 137th Signal Radio Intelligence Company just months after the Japanese bombed Pearl Harbor. The painting depicts the “Always Ready” Brigade’s rich history through the graphic illustration of three major conflicts the Brigade fought in: World War II, the Vietnam War and Operation FREEDOM’s SENTINEL. The artist James Dietz is a master at capturing the mood, setting, machinery, and the people in his original oil paintings. Each event portrayed is meticulously researched to ensure accuracy and historical detail. If you served in the 504th, the wall in your home or office is not complete until you have this historic MI painting hanging there. I served in the 504th and I have the painting. Go to your MICA website and check it out.
MICA is hosting the third annual
Fort Huachuca Ball on 1 May 2020, at the Westin La Paloma Resort in Tucson, Arizona. Planning is ongoing; please check the MICA website for current information and dates for registration. The theme this year is “The United States Army – 245 Years and Counting – Honoring the Past and Building to the Future”. Our Vice President Mike Roberts is leading the planning and execution of the Ball again this year. We expect to reach the full capacity of one thousand guests participating at the Ball. Please make it a priority to register early.
I would like to thank all of you for making 2019 a very productive year for MICA. A special thanks to all of the Corporate and Individual donors that provide direct support to MICA and our Soldiers. Without your support, MICA could not provide the benefits we provide to our soldiers and the Army Intelligence Community.
Respectfully,
Charles Atkins,
National President
Military Intelligence Corps Association
