Lee Erwin Reporting
lerwin@clarksvillenow.com
CLARKSVILLE, Tenn. – The Clarksville Rotary Club welcomed Colonel Jimmy Blackmon, Commander of the 159th Combat Aviation Brigade of the 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault) as guest speaker at their weekly meeting Wednesday, January 7.
Blackmon spent most of his time speaking about the soldiers at Fort Campbell and sharing stories about their combat experiences during deployments. He also talked about his new book, “Task Force Pale Horse, Hunting Terrorists and Commanding Heroes with the 101st Airborne Division”.
“I think it’s important that you know a little bit more about our soldiers since you live among them,” Blackmon said. Colonel Blackmon also thanked the Rotarians and the local community for their support of the soldiers and families at Fort Campbell.
The 159th Combat Aviation Brigade at Fort Campbell is one of the units scheduled to be deactivated later this year by the Department of Defense. The deactivation involves around 2,400 soldiers who will be reassigned.
At the meeting the Rotary Club also announced plans for their 50th Annual Auction and Dinner set for Valentine’s Day, February 14 from 5-10 p.m. at the Wilma Rudolph Event Center. Along with the dinner, both a silent and live auction is planned which will raise funds to aid local charities.