Story and Photos by Spc. Andrew Orillion, 1st Armored Division Public Affairs
Photo by Sgt. Samuel Smith, 1st Armored Division Public Affairs November 3, 2006
Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer once boasted that it had more stars than in the heavens. The 1st Armored Division may give MGM a run for its money, having just added another star to its roster, the newly pinned Brig. Gen. Michael A. Ryan, assistant division commander (Maneuver). Ryan was promoted to the rank of brigadier general during a ceremony at Wiesbaden Army Airfield Nov. 3.
Robinson continued, by mentioning a few of Ryan’s many accomplishments as ADCM. Ryan has held this position since July 2005.
"As ADCM, Ryan concentrated his efforts on reconstituting, training and building leaders throughout the division, making sure that they are all prepared for battle in this global war on terror,"
Robinson said. "I have never met an officer with greater dogged determination to insure the readiness of units." Robinson concluded his remarks by reaffirming his faith in the
leadership abilities of his newest one star. "I know of no officer more deserving of this than you, there is no doubt that you will continue to make a difference for every Soldier in this division," Robinson said.
After being officially pinned by Robinson, and being given his new kevlar and pistol belt, Ryan took the podium and spoke about his new rank and what it meant to him.
"Promotions are thought by some to be a very personal recognition which then triggers a very long and torturous monologue using every permutation of the personal pronoun and an excruciating trip down memory lane," Ryan said. "We are going to avoid some of this."
Ryan’s self-effacing sense of humor eventually gave way when he spoke about the responsibilities that come with any promotion.
"With every promotion there is a greater opportunity to train and care for our Soldiers, to fight bureaucracy and apply common sense to challenges," Ryan said. "If you accept a promotion with the intent of doing everything in your power to make a positive impact on the unit and its Soldiers, then I suspect that you will never be disappointed."
Ryan concluded his speech by thanking God, his family and all the troopers he served with over the years. He also offered a last bit of reflection on a career spent in service to his country.
