The Best of The Best
Story by SSG Jeff Clayton
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The soldiers and airmen of the U.S. military are the most highly trained, most dedicated and most disciplined force the world has ever known. Each year, however, through an exhaustive process of testing, evaluation and review boards, the "best of the best" are chosen as examples of the finest this country has to offer.
We proudly present the Washington Army and Air National Guard's Soldier/Airman and Non-Commissioned Officer of The Year for 1997.
It's a long-standing tradition for every U.S. military organization worldwide: the competition for Soldier or Airman of the Year. Early on in the year, sergeants down to the lowest level begin to take a hard look at their soldiers or airmen. They know that only a truly exceptional individual will rise to the top in this competition. In order to even be considered, superior scores in things like physical fitness and rifle marksmanship are a given. Each candidate must live by a "can-do" ethic and display a high degree of military bearing. In short, each is already an example for his or her peers to emulate.
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Eventually the date of the first in a long and grueling series of boards is announced. A half dozen individuals, carefully chosen by junior leaders, are presented to the organization's senior NCO leadership. During a half-hour personal interview, conducted in dress uniform, in front of four or five experience-hardened senior NCO with nearly 100 years of military service between them, the first cuts take place. The questions are complex and specific, covering a wide range of military subjects and current events. Due to the high caliber of the participants, the decision must often be based on a single incorrect response or an improperly displayed award. The pressure is high. This first board however selects the individual that will represent the unit at further competitions. Now the candidate is the torchbearer for his or her buddies as well, and the process is far from over.
In the National Guard, these boards continue for another three levels, culminating months later in a state-level board, chaired by the State Command Sergeant Major for Army National Guard soldiers, or the State Chief Master Sergeant for Air National Guard airmen. When it's all over the "best of the best" have been chosen. Those that did not make it are winners as well, and are recognized by their units at each level.
The winners for 1997 were selected following the final, state-level boards in December. They are:
- Airman of The Year - Senior Airman Lorinda Ecklund, of the 141st Maintenance Squadron
- Soldier of The Year - Specialist Stacie L. Buettner, of Co C 181st Support Battalion
- Non-Commissioned Officers (Air) of The Year - Master Sergeant Mark Tormanen, of the Western Area Defense Sector, and Technical Sergeant Michael Brickert, of the 141st Security Forces Squadron
- Non-Commissioned Officer (Army) of The Year - Sergeant Kelly M. Pugh, of Company A, 181st Support Battalion
On the 26th of January 1998, the National Guard Association of Washington sponsored a breakfast for members of the Washington House of Representatives and Senate to recognize the Soldiers and Airmen of The Year. State Command Sergeant Major Jack and State Chief Master Sergeant King introduced their soldiers and airmen respectively. The State Adjutant General, Major General Barlow, recognized the winners of the Army National Guard on the 7th of February 1998 with their respective chain-of-command present. Each was awarded the Washington National Guard Commendation Medal. On the 10th of March 1998 the Washington House of Representatives issued House Resolution 98-4722 officially recognizing the achievements and excellence of these soldiers and airmen. The state Senate has issued a similar resolution, and on the 16th of April, the Deputy Commander of the 5th Army (West), Major General Edwards recognized the Army Guard winners in an official ceremony.
State Command Sergeant Major Marvin Jack said of this year's winners, "These soldiers are great examples of American citizens who are willing to take on the extra responsibility of protecting our way of life. They serve their community, state and nation as citizen soldiers. They have gone through a very through competition to be selected the best soldier and non-commissioned officer in the Washington Army National Guard. They are truly the best of the best."
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