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Although most attractions opened at noon, Col. Patrick Matlock, the brigade commander, and Command Sgt. Maj. Michael Grinston, the brigade command sergeant major, officially started the blowout at 5 p.m.
“Thanks for everybody being here, and we are very grateful to all of the people who worked on this event,” Matlock said. Matlock thanked Herbert Grimm, a Baumholder resident and supporter of the 170th IBCT, for his contribution to the celebration.
“Herr Grim has been a great part of this community for many years. He collected money in honor of his late wife and donated it to this event so the Soldiers could enjoy this welcome home,” Matlock said.
Matlock and Grinston unveiled a print that commemorates the brigade’s recent deployment. The print, titled “Transforming Afghanistan through Partnership: Shona Ba Shona,” was created by artist Jody Harmon specifically for the brigade.
After the unveiling, Grinston and Lt. Col. Mark Raschke, the brigade deputy commander, each tapped a beer keg to officially kick off the festivities.
During the evening, Nicole Frechette opened the concert by performing country and rock and roll classics. Headliners Taking Back Sunday took the stage shortly after 8 p.m. Members of the New York-based rock band have several connections to the military, including bassist Eddie Reyes’ brother who is a U.S. Army sergeant major.
“Just to have an opportunity to come out and hopefully offer some reprieve or a little taste of home is a really important thing to us,” said Adam Lazzara, the lead singer for Taking Back Sunday.
Frechette and Taking Back Sunday members signed autographs after the show to close out the nearly 12-hour celebration. The 170th Infantry Brigade Combat Team is scheduled for deactivation later this year.