"Volunteering to continue to serve our nation, while deployed - is both noble and inspiring," said Gen. David Petraeus, commanding general, Multi-National Forces - Iraq. "It is, as award citations often state, in keeping with the finest traditions of our military services."

Petraeus presided over the ceremony and led the airmen, Marines, sailors, and Soldiers in their oath to defend their country against all enemies both foreign and domestic on this day of celebration of America winning its independence.
"We recognize the sacrifices they make and the sacrifices their families and communities make as they serve in Iraq," Hill said. "These servicemembers know the cost of war and they are still reenlisting."

Accumulatively servicemembers pledged more than 5,500 years of additional service to their country.

"It makes me feel proud to serve this great nation," said Spc. Zackary Cunningham, mechanic, 602nd Maintenance Battalion, Tactical Base Balad, who plans on making the Army a career.

The reenlistees have every right to feel proud according to Petraeus.

"You and your comrades here have been described as America's new greatest generation, and, in my view, you have more than earned that description," Petraeus said. "It is the greatest of honors to soldier here with you."

Servicemembers pay tribute to all 50 states during the reenlistment ceremony and 4th of July celebration. There were 1,215 servicemembers reenlisting and all 50 states had a servicemember reenlisting at the ceremony. Photo by Marine CPL Frances L. Goch

Source and credits :

http://www.army.mil/-news/2008/07/04/10642-1215-servicemembers-re-up-in-iraq/