Special Forces Tradition Continues with a Surprise

By SPC Brenda N. Thomas

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Pvt. Robert Carlisle takes the Oath of Enlistment given by his father Chief Warrant Officer 2 John Carlisle. Photo by Spc. Brenda N. Thomas.

MONTGOMERY, AL (04/18/2011)(readMedia)-- Private Robert Carlisle made a little piece of history last week when he raised his right hand to take the Oath of Enlistment into the Alabama Army National Guard. This was no ordinary swear-in ceremony at the Montgomery Military Entrance Processing Station (MEPS). After completing all of his processing, Carlisle walked into the ceremony room to find an unexpected visitor awaiting him. Standing at the podium delivering the Oath of Enlistment was his father, Chief Warrant Officer 2 John Carlisle who, unbeknownst to his son, returned from Afghanistan just in time to welcome him into the armed services. "I was just speechless," said Robert. "I didn't know he would be here."

This story goes deeper than just a surprise visit from a redeploying father. Private Robert Carlisle is a third generation Special Forces enlistment. Robert's grandfather, also named John Carlisle, retired from the 20th Special Forces Group. CW2 John Carlisle is currently serving with the 7th Special Forces Group out of Fort Bragg, N.C. "I've always wanted to do it," Robert said, "to follow in their footsteps."

John looked on as Robert signed his final paperwork and prepared to leave the MEPS. "I'm proud of him. That's what he's wanted to do for a while," John said. "I think it's good he's doing what he wanted. He just happens to be behind us."

Robert is a junior at Jackson High School and lives in Jackson, Ala. He leaves for Fort Benning, Ga., to begin Basic Combat Training in May.