Sue Henderson, DDE ’14
The 4th Sustainment Command (Expeditionary) is headquartered in Fort Sam Houston, Texas. The command is made up of Soldiers, Civilians, and their Families in units headquartered throughout Texas, New Mexico, Arkansas, Oklahoma, and Louisiana. As part of America’s Army Reserve, these units are trained, combat-ready, and equipped to provide military and logistical support in any corner of the globe. The 4th ESC’s robust logistics capability and its trained and ready team allow us to respond quickly in crisis situations like COVID-19.
We are always thinking about readiness, and this mission demonstrates why it is so important. It’s having equipment ready to roll, Soldiers trained and ready to do their jobs, and Army Families ready to have their loved ones away from home for a little while. That high level of readiness is why we were able to stand up and respond to this mission.
The 4th ESC’s personnel are providing logistical and sustainment support, the direct life support needed to keep the mission going. It is this work behind the scenes that allows the front line forces to focus on their missions. When troops on the front lines need supplies, we respond and provide that support. We bring a lot to the fight as Army Reserve Soldiers providing skill sets that make us unique for this mission.
Normally the 4th ESC would set up a shoulder-to-shoulder tactical operations center in one large room to bring the entire team together in one space, but that’s not a great idea right now. Instead, the unit has spread work-spaces throughout the reserve center and in tents and trailers around the building. Leaders are also leveraging telephonic and video conferences in place of face-to-face meetings. It can take a little adjustment at first, but that is one of attributes of an expeditionary organization, the ability to conduct operations in any environment.
It’s really incredible to see the team come together. This is a stressful time, but I see everyone working on their piece of the mission, I see how resilient they are and how much they care about getting this done right, and it really inspires me. It’s times like this that remind me why I put on the uniform.
BG Susan E. ‘Sue’ Henderson
Distance Class of 2014
Commanding General
4th Sustainment Command Expeditionary (4th ESC)
Fort Sam Houston, Texas
photos by Maj. Brandon Mace
