Eighth U.S. Army recognizes MacArthur nominees

By Pvt. Kim Kyu-ho, 8th U.S. Army Public AffairsDecember 9, 2009

YONGSAN GARRISON, South Korea - The Eighth United States Army representatives for the 2009 Department of the Army General Douglas MacArthur Leadership Award Competition were recognized Dec. 4 at the 8th Army headquarters.

Eighth Army Commander Lt. Gen. Joseph F. Fil, Jr., appauled the nominees - eight company grade officers and four warrant officers.

"Each one of them has shined through their own leadership style and work ethic, thus earning their place as a nominee in this prestigious competition," said Fil.

"I challenge all of you, especially the officers who competed magnificently today, to keep striving for success and to lead by example every day, just like General MacArthur did, throughout his legendary career," the general said.

After Fil's remarks, each nominee received a letter of commendation and a signed copy of a "MacArthur" DVD.

Family members and fellow Soldiers were there to cheer on the nominees.

From the nominees, Capt. Michael A. Kotich from the 2nd Infantry Division and Warrant Officer 1 Magnus O. Thorpe from the 19th Expeditionary Sustainment Command were selected to represent the 8th U.S. Army in Washington, D.C., against 34 company grade officers and 26 warrant officers from the other major commands around the world.

"It was a great honor for my name to be associated with such a great Soldier as General MacArthur," said Thorpe. "I dedicate my winning to my former leaders that mentored me and to the Soldiers that have allowed me to be a better leader."

The MacArthur Foundation, in coordination with the Department of the Army, established the Gen. Douglas MacArthur Leadership Award to recognize company grade officers and warrant officers who demonstrate duty, honor and country - the ideals MacArthur stood for. The award also promotes and sustains leadership in the United States Army.

Related Links:

8th U.S. Army Web site