3rd ID names Top NCO, Soldier

FORT STEWART, Ga. </B>- Joining the United States Army to serve the nation, Sgt. Jeffrey Bush, C Troop, 3rd Squadron, 7th Cavalry Regiment, and Cpl. Joseph Casarez, B Troop, 6th Squadron, 8th Cavalry Regiment, were recognized for their capability, bearing and professional attitude at Division Headquarters, Oct. 13.

Earning the Army Commendation Medal as well as Noncommissioned Officer of the Year and Soldier of the Year, respectively, Sgt. Bush and Cpl. Casarez were awarded the titles by the 3rd Infantry Division Command Team, Maj. Gen. Tony Cucolo, and Command Sergeant Major Jesse Andrews.

"You are an example of achievable standards," Maj. Gen. Cucolo said among his remarks to Sgt. Bush and Cpl. Casarez, noting their superior performance in front of the Soldiers co-workers, friends and Family.

Command Sergeant Major Andrews let them both know that he hoped to introduce them both in as ambassadors and standards of excellence in various venues throughout the year.

Sergeant Bush received the honor as Top 3rd ID NCO in front of his wife Katherine and daughters Jasah, 2, and Jordyn, 3-months.

He said he wanted to join the Army for his Family and friends, to keep them safe and noted back when he was in high school Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps, he developed a desire to lead and train Soldiers.

The three-year veteran, who previously served in Iraq for 15 months, spoke of his many military experiences.

"You can't be perfect, but you can always strive for it," Sgt. Bush said.

Corporal Casarez, recognized as 3rd ID's Top Soldier, is a testament to that same effort.

He joined the Army to serve the country like his two uncles in the Navy, and like his brother, Spc. Mike Mason, who served the Army in Afghanistan in 2001.

From Springfield, Ore., Cpl. Casarez said he knew he would deploy overseas when he joined the Army two-and-a-half years ago, and he has since spent most of his time in service overseas.

He shared his own thoughts to Soldiers.

"As long as you put your mind to it and stay motivated, you can achieve it," Cpl. Casarez said.

That motivation to achieve was also recognized by a local business, which presented its thanks Soldiers for their service.

Representatives from Navy Federal Credit Union extended their thanks to Sgt. Bush and Cpl. Casarez and all the Soldiers of the 3rd ID.