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    Outstanding soldier earns recognition

    274035

    Photo By Andreka Johnson | Col. Todd R. Wood (left), Commander of 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry...... read more read more

    FORT WAINWRIGHT, ALASKA, UNITED STATES

    10.25.2010

    Story by Andreka Johnson 

    United States Army Alaska

    FORT WAINWRIGHT, Alaska – Setting an example even when he thinks no one else is watching; striving to be the best no matter what the circumstances; completing all missions at hand while motivating others to aim for excellence.

    These are all characteristics used to describe Spc. Forrester Bazemore, the Top of the World Jackie McFarlane Outstanding Soldier Award winner. Fort Wainwright warrant officers presented Bazemore, a mechanic with the 539th Transportation Company, with the award Thursday, citing his outstanding performance on and off the battlefield.

    “Spc. Bazemore is an amazing soldier. He requires minimal guidance, remains highly motivated, and is a leader,” said Staff Sgt. Christopher Garrett with 539th Trans.
    Named after Chief Warrant Officer 2 Jackie Lewis McFarlane Jr., who died August 14, 2007 when his CH-47 Chinook helicopter crashed in Taqaddum, Iraq, the award is presented annually by members of the Top of the World Warrant Officer Association to recognize a soldier who possesses the same values McFarlane demonstrated throughout his military career.

    Chief Warrant Officer 3 (R) Mark Howdeshell, secretary of the TOW-WOA, said Bazemore epitomizes the spirit of the McFarlane award, because he “is a leader, technician, and a trainer who does not seek glory.”

    While deployed, Bazemore displayed his resourcefulness by creating a wiring plan to help control vehicle fires and decrease the amount of vehicle break downs.

    “Winning this award is an awesome feeling,” said Bazemore, a native of Fayetteville, N.C. “It lets me know that I’m appreciated and that means a lot to me.

    “I plan to remain proficient in everything I do and someday wear the rank of a Warrant Officer with pride.”

    Howdeshell told the crowd that since arriving at Fort Wainwright, Bazemore has proven to remain dependable while continuing to set the standard for others around him.

    “Spc. Bazemore has never shied away from any mission put in his path, from the deserts of the Middle East to the winters of Alaska, whether it was creating a wiring plan during deployment or motivating others to strive for excellence,” said Garret.“He deserves to be recognized ... He’s a natural born leader and a great asset to the United States Army.”

    NEWS INFO

    Date Taken: 10.25.2010
    Date Posted: 10.27.2010 18:55
    Story ID: 58947
    Location: FORT WAINWRIGHT, ALASKA, US

    Web Views: 223
    Downloads: 10

    PUBLIC DOMAIN