For the past 12 months, the Soldiers of Wings of Destiny have completed lifesaving missions, advancements in training, deployments and much more.

The Soldiers of 101st Combat Aviation Brigade, 101st Airborne Division, supported multiple training exercises and air assault operations across the division, saw the return of 2nd Squadron, 17th Cavalry Regiment, and bade farewell to the remainder of the brigade as they deployed to Afghanistan.

From welcoming back Soldiers to completing a rotation at the Joint Readiness Training Center at Fort Polk, Louisiana, the Soldiers of the 101st CAB trained and executed their mission tirelessly to continue the legacy of excellence of the Wings of Destiny Brigade.

The year kicked off with a joint training exercise with the 3rd Brigade Combat Team Rakkasans. Wings of Destiny Soldiers demonstrated excellent teamwork and showcased their skills in air assault operations, despite adverse weather conditions.

During the early months of the year, the brigade welcomed home Soldiers assigned to the 2-17th Cav. Regt., 101st CAB, who deployed to Southwest Asia in support of Operation Spartan Shield to promote regional self-reliance, increased security and building partner capacity in the Middle East.

In March, Soldiers of the 101st CAB continued the relationship built in 2016 with the Murray, Kentucky, community as they visited the Murray State University football and softball teams. During the visit, senior leaders spoke with players about leadership, overcoming adversity, mental toughness and working together toward a common goal.

The spring and early summer months of 2018 included training and readiness exercises for the Destiny Brigade, as the Headquarters prepared for a deployment to Afghanistan. Soldiers conducted forward arming refueling point training, chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear training, honed marksmanship skills, took part in survival, evasion, resistance and escape training, and received rapid fielding initiative gear in preparation for deployment.

“We’ve been training relentlessly to outthink, outwill and outfight the enemy and now the time has come to do just that,” said Col. Craig Alia, the brigade commander, as he spoke to Wings of Destiny Soldiers. “Command Sgt. Maj. [Reginald] Thomas and I are both humbled and honored to serve beside each and every one of you.”

In June, the brigade landed in Afghanistan and transformed into Task Force Destiny, providing aviation support to the entire Combined Joint Operational Area-Afghanistan in support of the NATO-led Resolute Support mission and U.S. Forces-Afghanistan.

During an Aug. 25 change of command ceremony at Bagram Airfield, Afghanistan, the unit bade farewell to Alia, and welcomed Col. Matthew J. Weinshel. Alia served as Destiny’s commander from February 2016 to August 2018 and was a vital part in the creation of the 101st CAB and Murray, Kentucky, relationship.

Weinshel said he is proud and honored in taking the responsibility of commanding the Destiny Soldiers in combat.

“I pledge to provide the appropriate guidance intent and resources that enable you to execute the mission,” Weinshel said as he took command.

In September, Soldiers assigned to Task Force Destiny had the opportunity to attain the German Proficiency Marksmanship Badge, known as the Schutzenschnur.

“It was fun once I was over my nerves as a first time pistol shooter,” said Spc. Ana Luisa Ramolete, paralegal assigned to Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 101st CAB, 101st Abn. Div. “It means a lot to have the opportunity because not many people get to earn it even being stationed in Germany, earning the badge felt awesome.”

Attention to readiness remained a top priority for the brigade throughout the year as Soldiers continued to hone their marksmanship skills, medical and physical readiness, and even trained on air assault operations while deployed. Junior Soldiers also had the opportunity to attend the Basic Leader Course to further their careers and military education. By year’s end more than 100 Task Force Destiny Soldiers graduated from the Bagram Airfield BLC.

During November, 1st Battalion, 101st Aviation Regiment, 101st CAB, welcomed Lt. Col. Matthew Fix as he assumed command of Task Force No Mercy.

“I am truly honored to be a part of this team,” Fix said. “There is no place I would rather be, than here with you today on this frontier of freedom.”

The deployment did not dampen the Destiny Soldiers’ spirits as the brigade took pause to enjoy the holiday season and talk to loved ones in their spare time. During this time, several senior leaders and command teams visited Task Force Destiny Soldiers and enjoyed holiday meals with them.

Additionally, the Murray-Calloway County Hospital donated hundreds of care packages throughout the deployment for 101st CAB Soldiers in Afghanistan, further bringing the two communities together.

As the year ends and deployment continues into 2019, Soldiers continue to uphold the standards of excellence that the Wings of Destiny Brigade is known for. By staying motivated, resilient and dedicated, Soldiers continue to grow in their careers and as the future of the U.S. Army.