HANSCOM AIR FORCE BASE, Mass. — Members, colleagues, family and friends of the Quartermaster Corps of the Massachusetts National Guard attended the celebration of the 250th Quartermaster Birthday and the presentation of the Order of St. Martin at Joint Force Headquarters, June 16, 2025.
The 250th anniversary of the U.S. Army Quartermaster Corps is a momentous occasion, deserving far more than a simple acknowledgment. Established on June 16, 1775, this vital branch of the U.S. Army has been the silent, unwavering backbone of countless military operations for two and a half centuries.
Brig.Gen.(MA) (RET) Paul Smith addressed the group at the ceremony and spoke fondly of the QM Corps and the pride that they take in doing their jobs to support the Army.
“Thank you for supporting our brothers and sisters in uniform to make sure they have the beans, the bullets, the fuel, the ammunition to do what they need to do.
As per Army tradition, the oldest and youngest Soldiers in attendance at the ceremony cut the birthday cake — which was very likely to have been planned, ordered and delivered by someone from the Quartermaster Corps. The day’s oldest and youngest were Brig. Gen. (MA) (RET) Charles (Chuck) Maguire and First Lt. Sara Wulff, a quartermaster officer with F Co, 186th Brigade Support Battalion.
From providing essential supplies to Continental Army soldiers during the Revolutionary War, to managing the incredibly complex logistical challenges of modern warfare, the Quartermaster Corps has consistently demonstrated an unparalleled capacity for adaptation and innovation. Their dedication ensures that our troops are equipped, provisioned, and supported wherever they serve, a contribution often overlooked yet absolutely crucial to the success of any military endeavor.
This anniversary isn’t just about celebrating longevity; it’s about honoring the countless individuals who have dedicated their lives to selfless service within the Corps, ensuring the well-being and operational effectiveness of the U.S. Army. Their legacy of unwavering commitment to duty, resourcefulness, and logistical mastery is a testament to their skill and dedication. The enduring strength of the nation is, in no small part, a direct result of their tireless work.
During the birthday celebration, there was a presentation of the Order of St. Martin to four very deserving members of the Quartermaster Corps: Chief Warrant Officer Two Joshua Van Schouwen, Staff Sgt. Stephen Ware, Staff Sgt. Annie Lopez, and Ms. Amber Degrandpre.
The connection between the Quartermaster Corps’ anniversary and the Order of St. Martin, while perhaps initially unexpected, reveals a fascinating parallel. The Order, named for Saint Martin of Tours, a soldier-turned-bishop known for his compassion and generosity, embodies values of selfless service and humanitarian concern that mirror the dedication of the Quartermaster Corps. The act of providing for others, whether soldiers on the battlefield or those in need within a community, stems from the same spirit of altruism. Just as Saint Martin shared his cloak, the Quartermaster Corps shares its resources, ensuring the needs of our servicemen and women are met, often under the most challenging conditions. This shared spirit of service and sacrifice makes the juxtaposition of these two anniversaries all the more profound. It highlights the enduring importance of both military logistical expertise and the compassionate human spirit in the face of adversity.
“Thank you all, for the role you take in supporting victory,” said Smith. “The Quartermasters are the backbone, the unsung heroes, of the most powerful fighting force of the world, the United States Army. Take pride in that fact. Happy Quartermaster Birthday.”
Story by Col. Tonia Costa and Laura Berry with information from The U.S. Army Quartermaster Corps
