ROCK ISLAND ARSENAL, Ill. -- A First Army Department of the Army civilian employee was recognized for her meritorious service in Iraq during a ceremony Oct. 1 in First Army headquarters.
Lt. Gen. Michael S. Tucker, First Army commanding general, presented Connie Decker with the prestigious Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Meritorious Service Award.
The Department of Defense bestowed the award on Decker for her stellar accomplishments while serving as executive secretary to the Office of Security Cooperation-Iraq. From July 2013 to July 2014, Decker was at the U.S. Embassy in Baghdad, where she worked directly for former First Army Commanding General, Lt. Gen. Mick Bednarek.
During the ceremony, Bednarek spoke via teleconference about what Decker had done to merit the award.
"This recognizes the magnitude and complexity of the work that Connie did every day," Bednarek said. "Connie, your administrative excellence, and what you've done and continue to do, served not only me, but the entire U.S. Embassy. Connie's attention to detail is unparalleled. This award is for all that you have done and continue to do. It speaks volumes about what you mean for all of us across the Department of Defense. Thank you for being the incredible, consummate professional
that you are."
Bednarek noted that Decker stayed on top of difficult, potentially sensitive issues in a variety of situations. Further, he said, she always handled those situations with calm professionalism and a positive outlook.
"In the coalition environment, it's all about building trust and cultivating relationships, and Connie Decker is a master of it all, from protocol, to Iraqi leader engagement, to key leader engagements," Bednarek said. "Connie is the consummate protocol and morale officer. Having somebody who is always upbeat, cheerful and effervescent, and who lifts people's spirits, is a godsend. Connie, your service to us all was simply masterful."
Decker thanked Bednarek for taking time out of his schedule to participate in the ceremony.
"It means a lot to me," she said. "You're an amazing leader, a phenomenal mentor and a great friend."
Decker said she was surprised and excited to receive the award, since she knew of many nominations for the award that were disapproved.
The type of work Decker performed in Baghdad varied widely, she said, as it was driven by the mission and situation. "It was never the same day twice," she said. "I liked working with the Department of State, which is a different agency than what I normally work with, and I enjoyed working with the Joint Chiefs staff. The work was very challenging, yet very rewarding. I'd do it again in a heartbeat."
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