On Thursday, April 11, 2002, with spectators and dignitaries from Ft. Stewart and the local area, and Cottonbaler Association members from near and far, the 7th Infantry Regiment was ceremoniously recognized as “New Orleans Own.”
In a ceremony hosted by 2nd Battalion Commander, LTC Scott Rutter, present “Colonel of the Regiment” and attended by such notables as MG Buford Blount, Commander of the 3rd Infantry Division, BG (Ret) Olin Smith, Honorary Colonel of the Regiment, and Maj. (Ret) Robert Boucart, of Belgium, member of the Korean War affiliated “Belgian Battalion,” Mr. Jim LeBlanc, representing the Mayor of New Orleans, read that city’s proclamation:
“Whereas the 7th Infantry Regiment ... has established its origin during the War of 1812, having fought in a distinguished fashion during the Battle of New Orleans...and ...
“Whereas the City of New Orleans would confirm its own history and the distinguished traditions of the 7th Infantry Regiment by so designating this unit as "New Orleans' Own"...
“Be it Resolved by the Council of the City of New Orleans that in recognizing the long and distinguished history of the 7th Infantry Regiment and confirming its origin during the Battle of New Orleans, does hereby authorize the 7th Infantry Regiment to be recognized as "New Orleans Own.”
Soldiers of the two currently active battalions stood in the ranks as their Regiment was honored. LTC Jack Kammerer, commander of 3rd Battalion, 7th Infantry was Commander of Troops. In the stands, were other well-wishers including fourteen members of the Seventh Infantry Regiment Association, who had come from as far away as California and Belgium to see this historic event.
Representing New Orleans was Mr. James LeBlanc, a distinguished American who served in the Army, Navy, and Air Force and serves on the City Military Council. Mr. LeBlanc pointed out that two of his ancestors had fought at the Battle of New Orleans, and he was honored to be able to represent the city.
LTC Scott Rutter accepted the recognition on behalf of the Regiment. LTC Rutter presented Mr. LeBlanc a framed replica of the Regimental Colors to take back to the city inscribed "To the people of New Orleans, from the Seventh Infantry Regiment, 'New Orleans' Own'."
COL Rick Rhoades, Association President, pointed out that this was an apt linkage, both the Seventh Regiment and New Orleans have great history, and are vibrant organizations headed into the 21st century.
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