Joseph Baird Completes Basic Training SMITH POINT, November 30, 2004 - Joseph Brittan Baird has become Pvt. 2nd Class Joseph Baird of the United States Army. Pvt. Baird is the son of Michael and JoAnna Baird and has been a resident of Smith’s Point for the last eight years.

Baird is the Grandson of Jimmy Best of Smith Point, Mary Jo and Don Bean of Sam Rayburn, Ginger Best and H.L. Hamilton of Beaumont and Betty Baird of League City. Great-Grandparents are James Brittan (Jim) and Mattie Leigh Best formally of Daisetta and Joseph Bryan and Bessie Mary Hendricks formally of Hull.

Pvt. Baird graduated from Barbers Hill High School in May of 2002. As a man, he made the decision to join the United States Army taking Basic Training in Fort Sill, Oklahoma.

Fire Support Specialist Training, which is more individualized and intense, was also taught in Fort Sill. Therefore, Pvt. Baird remained in Fort Sill for fourteen weeks. On November 18, 2004 he graduated from Basic. His platoon (The Steel Dogs) ranked very high in the Physical Training division of testing.

Pvt. Baird received an expert in marksmanship and bonnet training. Baird’s family and friends were thankful and honored to have him with them for Thanksgiving.

On December 5th he departs from Houston for the sixteen-hour flight to Germany. His Battle Buddy from Fort Sill is also to be in Germany. Germany will be their Base for the next three years. Baird is looking forward to his experiences and the opportunity to serve our United States of America.

Just as all of the US Veterans past, present and future, this is a great example of unselfishness and bravery. As a community please keep Pvt. Baird and all of our Military Troops in your prayers.

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