Photo By Sgt. Jordan Johnson | Staff. Sgt. Devin Allred (right), medical non-commissioned officer in charge,...... read more read more
By Cpl. Jordan Johnson
Third Army/ARCENT Public Affairs
CAMP ARIFJAN, Kuwait – As World War II was taking place, a young man from north Texas attempted to enlist into the Marines and the paratroopers, but was told by both he was too short and skinny. However, the Army was willing to give him a chance.
Once Audie Murphy finished his initial training, he was ordered overseas and became one of the most decorated soldiers in Army history. Murphy was tragically killed in a plane crash in 1971, but his name lives on by way of the Sergeant Audie Murphy Club.
“Audie Murphy was an outstanding soldier; the highest decorated soldier in American history,” said Staff Sgt. Devin Allred, medical non-commissioned officer in charge, Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 15th Engineer Battalion and Richfield, Utah native. “I’m honored to be inducted into an organization bearing his name.”
Allred, who was inducted into the club at a ceremony here Oct. 15, faced many obstacles in pursuit of membership. Despite the late night study sessions and nerve-wracking boards, the experience was worth the knowledge learnt, he said.
“One of the biggest reasons I wanted to be inducted was the learning experience I’d have, because of all the studying that would be required,” the newest SAMC inductee said. “I was able to learn more about the Army and how to lead soldiers. In essence, I became a better leader.”
Now part of the distinguished club, Allred will be able to look towards other SAMC members and continue to build his leadership skills.
“I will become a better leader by surrounding myself with other competent leaders,” stated Allred. “The best way to learn is by sharing the experience with everyone around you.”
Past, present and future leaders were all in attendance for the ceremony, including a former president of the club.
“As a SAMC member, you will be obligated to be an expert and a leader of values,” said Sgt. Maj. Ulysses Rayford, sergeant major, Headquarters and Headquarters Detachment, 54th Signal Company, 160th Signal Brigade and Columbus, Ga., native. “You must be faithful to your obligations to this country and service.”
Rayford, who was the guest speaker for the ceremony, said he not only wanted to recognize Allred, but also the SAMC in general. The newest member of the club agreed with Rayford’s sentiment.
“People don’t know a lot about the SAMC,” said Allred. “I’m glad to have this exposure to let my peers and soldiers know about this organization. Now, they can possibly better themselves and go down the same road I have.”
It’s quite possible many who were in attendance may attempt to join the SAMC, but the induction ceremony highlighted the soldier who had already taken the steps necessary to join the club. As his speech approached its conclusion, Rayford had a few final words for Allred.
“Always lead from the front,” stated Rayford. “No excuses, no shortcuts.”
Third Army is shaping the future by preparing its NCOs to be competent, trained and highly-skilled soldiers. Groups like the SAMC let soldiers surround themselves with strong leaders and gain invaluable knowledge and experience.
| Date Taken: | 10.15.2011 |
| Date Posted: | 10.18.2011 09:43 |
| Story ID: | 78660 |
| Location: | CAMP ARIFJAN, KW |
| Web Views: | 263 |
| Downloads: | 2 |
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