FORT KNOX, Ky. (Oct. 1, 2010) - Sgt. Maj. Duane K. Nunnally, Master Sgt. Michael A. Williams and Master Sgt. Lerissa D. Wilson, officially marked the end of their Army careers during the Fort Knox Retirement Ceremony here Friday, September 24 at the Leaders Club.
With careers totaling 77 years, the noncommissioned officers officially hung up their boots to pursue other endeavors.
Hosted by Col. Christopher R. Toner, commander of the 3rd Brigade, 1st Infantry Division, Brigade Combat Team and his senior enlisted leader, Command Sgt. Maj. Drew E. Pumarejo, the ceremony celebrated the accomplishments of the retiring Soldiers' time in service.
"It's great to be a part of a great event in which some of our great Soldiers are retiring. These Soldiers all served during a critical time in our Army's history," said Toner. "To our Family members, you are the backbone of our Soldiers. Our nation owes these Soldiers and Families a huge debt of gratitude."
Nunnally, a Savannah, Ga. native, was the support operations munitions sergeant major for the 3d Sustainment Command (Expeditionary) at the time of his retirement.
He credits the Army for allowing himself to see the world and develop an understanding that there is more to life than what he experienced in Savannah as a child. Growing up in a single parent household with 5 siblings, Nunnally credits his mother for much that he has accomplished.
"We were never rich, but my mother helped me become the man that I am today," he said.
Now that he is officially retired, Nunnally said he plans to take some time off before rejoining the work force. He advises all young Soldiers to be all they can be and to take advantage of everything the Army has to offer.
"Now that I'm retired, I plan to take all of my lessons learned from the Army and help build a better community, better society and ultimately, a better nation," said Nunnally.
Nunnally was presented the Legion of Merit for his meritorious service from August 31, 2000 to September 1, 2010. He and his Family will make Radcliff, Ky. their home after retirement.
Wilson, the 3d ESC's master chaplain assistant at the time of her retirement, said that she plans to re-enter the work force as soon as possible because of her motivation and relative youthfulness.
A native of Lynchburg, Va., Wilson said that she accomplished everything she sought to while serving her country. While a Soldier, Wilson earned a college degree in human resource management, and looks to gain employment in this field upon retirement.
Wilson said the highlight of her career was serving overseas in Korea as an instructor for chaplains and their assistants. This experience gave her the opportunity to meet lots of people throughout the years and network with others outside of her career field.
"I have truly been blessed. Really, the Army has truly been a blessing to me," said Wilson. "When I look back at my career, there is nothing that I would change. Now that I have met all of my objectives, it's time to move on."
Wilson was presented the Meritorious Service Medal for her service from February 1, 2000 to February 1, 2010. Wilson will make Elizabethtown, Ky. her home after retirement.
Williams' sentiment nearly mirrors that of Wilson in that he plans to immediately re-enter the work force. The host nations support NCO during his time with the 3d ESC, Williams said that he still considers himself young and energetic.
He said that he and his Family plan to make their home in Arkansas, and looks forward to a new beginning.
"When I look back at my 25 years in the Army, I feel that everything I dealt with or have been through was well worth it," Williams said.
Williams was presented the Meritorious Service Medal for his service from September 30, 2000 to October 1, 2010.
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