WASHINGTON — Throughout 2024, Spc. Jimena Salazar, a military police officer with the 276th Military Police Company, District of Columbia Army National Guard accepted the challenge to represent the best of her unit. The D.C. Army National Guard named Salazar the Soldier of the Year at the D.C. Armory on Sept. 15, 2024.
“It’s a huge accomplishment for my career, and I’m proud of what I was able to achieve,” Salazar said. “It's just one step closer to doing even bigger and greater things in my career that I know is just the beginning.”
The Soldier of the Year board recognizes and honors one individual annually who exemplifies excellence in knowledge, leadership, and service. Salazar's unit recommended her for the competition due to her exceptional professionalism and dedication to duty. Before competing for the title, she first had to win Soldier of the Quarter, which she did in March. Comparing the two stages, Salazar likened Soldier of the Quarter to a quiz and Soldier of the Year to a final exam. It was a rigorous test of her knowledge, presentation, and composure under pressure.
“Speaking in front of others has never come easily to me,” Salazar said. “But I used this competition as an opportunity to push myself. Over time, I gained confidence, and by the time I stood in front of the board, I was ready.”
Salazar identified personal courage as a key quality that helped her succeed in the competition. Despite her nerves, she confidently presented herself in front of the board, setting the tone for her performance. Her passion, pride, and conviction while reciting the Soldier’s Creed caught the attention of the board members.
Salazar plans to compete again after her promotion to noncommissioned officer. For her, winning Soldier of the Year is not only a personal accomplishment but also an opportunity to represent her unit, family, and community with pride.
Her family was her biggest source of motivation, and she credits three individuals in her military career for being instrumental in her development. Her cousin, Staff Sgt. Arlene Gudiel, who previously won Soldier of the Year, served as a key inspiration and mentor throughout the process. Salazar was also motivated by retired Staff Sgt. Henry Williams and her unit’s first sergeant, 1st Sgt, Tamara Richardson, both of whom pushed her to be the best version of herself. In addition to support from her family and unit, Salazar also received support in her full-time role as a counterdrug analyst in the D.C. National Guard Counterdrug Program.
When asked what advice she would give to future soldiers aspiring to earn this recognition, Salazar emphasized the importance of taking the leap, even if it feels daunting.
“If you even have an inkling or a fire in you that wants you to compete for Soldier of the Year, do it,” Salazar said. “I highly recommend you do it, because this is a huge opportunity, and it will motivate you. It will build your character mentally and help you get ready for future boards in your career.”
Her story serves as a reminder that success in the military is not only about individual effort but also about the people who support you along the way. It is a testament to the power of determination, mentorship, and the courage to face challenges head-on.
| Date Taken: | 10.06.2024 |
| Date Posted: | 10.07.2024 11:16 |
| Story ID: | 482620 |
| Location: | WASHINGTON, DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA, US |
| Web Views: | 89 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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