BMACH welcomes new CSM

FORT BENNING, Ga., (July 1, 2015) -- The Fort Benning U.S. Army Medical Department Activity and Martin Army Community Hospital bade farewell to its senior NCO Command Sgt. Maj. Napoleon Noguerapayan during a change of responsibility ceremony June 22 at McGinnis-Wickam Hall's Marshall Auditorium.

Noguerapayan, who has served the Army for 26 years and BMACH since July 12, 2013, was awarded the Military Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal and the Legion of Merit.

Praised by BMACH commander Col. Scott B. Avery for his "relentless pursuit of excellence at BMACH," Noguerapayan was recognized for his professionalism, determination and dedication to Soldiers and civilians.

"I could never have imagined a better command sergeant major," Avery said.

Noguerapayan said the transition to the new hospital and ongoing growth of the facility is the result of hard work and dedication of all staff members serving the best customers in the world.

"It surely makes a difference when we work together as a team. No one person can do it alone," Noguerapayan said. "Goodness comes when we work as a team, when we treat each other with dignity and with respect and when we create an environment that allows others to thrive and improve on their performance."

Incoming Command Sgt. Maj. Leon Johnson hails from Peoria, Ill. He holds a bachelor's degree in Health Care Management from Trident University, Cypress, California. Johnson's Army career began in 1990 and his last assignment was the 61st Multifunctional Medical Battalion Command Sergeant Major at Fort Hood, Texas.

He thanked Avery and Noguerapayan for the warm welcome and said he looks forward to taking the organization to the next level of greatness.

"I truly understand the importance of taking care of Soldiers, civilians and the Families. I look forward to working with the team of professionals that will also share the same vision while providing our beneficiaries that ultimate patient experience," Johnson said.