FORT HOOD, TX — From an evening landing on Fort Hood, to a spirited morning discussion, Vice President Mike Pence's visit of the Great Place was packed.
Quickly getting the heart of our nation’s chief news, he addressed an ISIS raid in Syria carried out by American troops.
He further confirmed the administration’s commitment to defeating terrorism.
"This past Sunday was a great day for America. Thanks to the courage and professionalism of our special forces, and thanks to the decisiveness of your commander in chief, the world’s number one terrorist leader was brought to justice. Abu Bakr Al-Baghdadi is dead," said Vice President Pence.
He continued to discuss the efforts made by Fort Hood.
"III Corps is playing a leading role in our 76 nation coalition to defeat ISIS. In fact, III Corps was there when, by March of this year, our armed forces claimed the last inch of territory under the black flag of ISIS," said Vice President Pence.
While successes have brought triumph, the pangs of tragedy are not forgotten.
As the anniversary of the Fort Hood shooting nears, Vice President Pence reflected on the sacrifices.
"The heroes of Fort Hood have, throughout the history of this institution, also paid the last full measure of devotion on foreign fields of battle, and as the nation will pause to remember next week, ten years ago on November 5th, terror struck at the heart of this base," reflected Vice President Pence
With all the pomp and circumstance fitting of a vice-presidential visit, Fort Hood rolled out all the stops to welcome one of our nation’s top leaders.
A special address to Fort Hood soldiers aimed to resound in the hearts of our troops. He had a mission to show gratitude for all those who serve our country.
“It is great to be back in Texas, and it is great to be at the Great Place," said Vice President Pence.
More than one thousand people listened intently.
"We’re proud of all of you. American people are more grateful for you than you will ever know. You come from the rest of us, but make no mistake about it. You are the best of us," said Vice President Pence.
Those entering the Army life called the vice president's message an inspiration.
"Having that opportunity to have the troopers interact with the vice president was huge too. Big morale booster for them. Once in a lifetime opportunity," said Command Sergeant Major James Light.
But Vice President Pence also wanted to speak directly with those exiting army life. The vice president held a special meeting with transitioning soldiers about how to best serve their needs.
"Out of Fort Hood, Texas, there are 10,000 troopers. 80% of them would just like to stay here, in Fort Hood, in Texas," said Colonel Mike Schoenfeldt.
The post offers programming to help those veteran, but it is still a challenging life change.
The vice president said he is one of the chief supporters of our armed forces, and soldiers 25 News spoke to said they feel the embrace.
"We’re ready if the nation needs us. We’re ready right now to be committed," explained Col. Schoenfeldt.
From Fort Hood, Vice President Pence headed to Austin for a luncheon, and then departed back to Washington, D.C.
