So Proud.

So Rick had his normal usual once a month drill this weekend. Needless to say his dedication is paying off. He received a promotion and is now the leader of his team. YEAH! He also will be attending WLC sometime in the future-meaning this year sometime. You can click on the WLC to read what WLC is all about. Also he will be attending Air Assault School he's hoping by March. I have also linked the info for that as well.
He also brought home a bronze level Extend to Defend award. Bronze level is given to National Guard members for their dedication to the Guard for 1-9 years of National Guard service. He also received a special coin as well. Here are some pics to share. He was one of two who was chosen within his unit who received this honor. I am so proud.

above: front cover of award

below: inside of award

The left side says: CERTIFICATE OF APPRECIATION. NATIONAL GUARD EXTEND TO DEFEND. BRONZE LEVEL. For 1-9 years of service. The leadership of the Army National Guard, wishes to express our sincere appreciation for your service in the National Guard. Securing and defending the freedom of our country is no small task and we recognize your honor, courage and duty. You are commended as a true American hero. SPC Theodore Bowden
The center says: National Guard I am an American Soldier. I am a warrior and a member of a team. I serve the people of the United States and live the Army values. I will always place the mission first. I will never accept defeat.Quit.Leave a fallen comrade. I am disciplined. Physically and mentally tough. Trained and proficient in my tasks and drills. I always maintain my arms, my equipment and myself. I am an expert and I am professional. I stand ready to deploy, engage, and destroy the enemies of the United States of America in close combat. I am a guardian of freedom and the American way of life. I AM THE ARMY NATIONAL GUARD.
The right says:CERTIFICATE OF APPRECIATION. NATIONAL GUARD EXTEND TO DEFEND. BRONZE LEVEL. For 1-9 years of service. The leadership of the Army National Guard, wishes to express our sincere appreciation for your support of your National Guard hero. No soldier serves alone. We thank you for your devotion to your soldier and for steadfast support of the Army National Guard.

The bronze coin the front says Army National Guard Extend to Defend, and the back says personal courage, duty, respect, selfless service, honor, integrity.

Needless to say I am proud of Rick, he truly enjoys being part of something so amazing. I have realized it takes a special person to be called to serve our country. It is no small task and takes a lot of dedication and discipline.

Justed wanted to share with everyone!!