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Soldier and NCO of the year announced
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The U.S. Army is a time-honored organization rich in tradition and history. Long considered members of the best military in the world, Soldiers of the 3rd Infantry Division carry out these traditions and play a part in writing its history.
Two Soldiers from earned their page in the 3rd Infantry Division history book after winning the titles of 2008 Noncommissioned Officer of the Year and Soldier of the Year.
Specialist Michael Holbrook, 3rd Inf. Div. Soldier of the Year 2008 winner, said ever since he won the Soldier of the Month award, it has been his mission to progress as far as possible. He is from 3rd Squadron, 7th Cavalry Regiment, attached to 2nd Brigade Combat Team.
Soldier and NCO of the Year titles go to those who perform above and beyond their call to duty. Each Soldier competing in the event is required to turn in a packet which includes a nomination worksheet signed by a brigade command sergeant major, and must compete in an oral board.
“I ended up learning a lot from being with 3rd ID,” said Staff Sgt. Joshua Ridge, 3rd Inf. Div. NCO of the Year 2008, from 1st Battalion, 76th Field Artillery, 4th BCT. “I am definitely proud of the fact that I won the title of NCO of the Year.”
The competition starts at company level then advances to battalion, brigade and division competitions. Division-level winners compete in the Forces Command NCO and Soldier of the Year, which takes place July 27 through August 1. The top Soldier and NCO in that event will then compete for at the whole Army level.
“They are considered to be the top Soldiers in the division and will represent the division on different levels,” said Staff Sgt. Ashanti Carter, executive assistant to division command sergeant major.
This competition improves the Soldiers’ morale while deployed and gives them a goal to achieve, Carter said.
“I worked for it, and I did everything I could to get to this position. The next step is the FORSCOM board, and I can’t wait to go there and perform my best,” Holbrook said.
