Unit Based Near IMS Departing For Europe; Could See Duty In Iraq
By Eric Powell
indy500.com
Friday, December 20, 2002
The Indianapolis-based 21st Theatre Support Command of the United States Army Reserves recently selected the Indianapolis Motor Speedway's world-famous "Wing and Wheel" logo to be on its "Coin of Excellence." A copy of the coin was presented to the Hulman-George family and IMS during ceremonies on Dec. 18. According to Brigadier General George W. Wells Jr., of the 21st Theatre Support Command, the Speedway's wing and wheel logo was selected to be part of the "Coin of Excellence" - which is presented to a select few soldiers from the unit for an act or accomplishment of significance - due to the Speedway's "shared experience in supporting America's military." During the 21st Theatre Support Command's tour of duty during Operation Desert Shield/Desert Storm, one of the highlights of the group's tour was listening to the broadcast of the 1991 Indianapolis 500-Mile Race. The unit also has close geographical ties to IMS, as it is headquartered less than three miles from the Speedway. The Indianapolis Motor Speedway has honored the United States Armed Forces for decades, going as far as to name the second day of qualifications for the Indianapolis 500 "Armed Forces Day." Thousands of armed forces personnel around the world listen to the Indianapolis 500 broadcast each year, thanks to the American Forces Radio and Television Network. The 21st Theatre Support Command shipped out Wednesday, following the ceremonies that included presentation of the "Coin of Excellence," for active duty. The unit will be stationed in Fort Knox, Ky., until January and will then depart for Germany for possible responsibilities in the event of a conflict with Iraq.
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