USAMU Soldier awarded for leadership

FORT BENNING, Ga. -- A noncommissioned officer from the U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit was awarded the prestigious U.S. Army Accessions Command Leadership Legacy Award Aug. 30 at the Patton Roundhouse on Hook Range.

Sgt. 1st Class Kyle Ward was presented the award by Command Sgt. Maj. Israel Talamantez, USAAC. It is given to one NCO from USAAC who demonstrates selfless service, dedication to duty, uncompromising loyalty to country, inspiration, and exemplary leadership within their respective organizations in support of their organization's mission.

"My reaction when I was notified of being the recipient of the award was an overwhelming feeling of gratitude towards the USAMU leadership for considering and recommending me for this award," said Ward. "I felt gratitude for all of the members of the Service Rifle platoon for their dedication and hard work towards mission accomplishment and striving to exceed expectations on a daily basis, and gratitude towards the members of the USAMU, civilian and military alike, that have mentored and advised me throughout my career."

Ward is currently the unit's operations NCO after several years as the Service Rifle section's noncommissioned officer-in-charge. Prior to that, Ward was a service rifle instructor/shooter. He has distinguished himself on the shooting range and as a leader in a very demanding job. He was also named the Texas State Rifle Association Coach of the Year for his profound and positive impact on our youth.

"Any NCO that wins this award can be described as the ultimate servant leader, someone that we all should aspire to be," said Talamentez. "Sgt. 1st Class Ward is that type of leader; one who puts others before himself."

The award was created to honor Lieutenant General John M. Schofield. Schofield devoted 46 years of service to the country he loved dearly. An 1853 West Point graduate, he accepted a volunteer appointment at the outbreak of the Civil War and was awarded the Medal of Honor for actions at the Battle of Wilson's Creek, Missouri (1861).

He served as Secretary of War in the final years of President Andrew Johnson's administration and he established a school of Light Artillery at Fort Riley, Kansas. Moving on to the Division of the Pacific in 1870, he recognized the strategic importance of Hawaii, especially Pearl Harbor, and urged the establishment of a base there. His appointment as Commanding General of the Army was the culmination of a dedicated and innovative career.

"I believe that there are many traits that make up a good leader, but loyalty and selfless service are key," concluded Ward. "Being loyal to the unit, and the chain of command, instills confidence in your superiors that they can rely on you to get the job done right the first time. Loyalty to your subordinates develops trust and confidence that you have their best interest in mind at all times."

Besides an NCO, a Soldier and civilian assigned to USAAC are also selected for a leadership award. Due to the scheduled inactivation of USAAC, this will be the last time the award is given to deserving candidates.