Fort Carson, Colo. – Capt. Nicole M. Fuss of the 4th Security Force Assistance Brigade (4SFAB) made history on Nov. 6, 2024, as the first Nurse Corps officer to receive the General Douglas MacArthur Leadership Award. She was also the only officer stationed at Fort Carson to receive the award this year. The ceremony was held at the National Capital Region in Arlington, Virginia, and U.S. Army Chief of Staff General Randy George presented the honor.
Established in 1987, the General Douglas MacArthur Leadership Award recognizes company-grade officers and junior warrant officers who embody the Army values of duty, honor, and country. Named for the famed World War II leader and West Point graduate, the award celebrates individuals whose leadership reflects the ethos championed by Gen. MacArthur throughout his career.
“Receiving the General Douglas MacArthur Leadership Award is a tremendous honor, and I am deeply humbled to be recognized among such exceptional leaders,” said Fuss. “This recognition is not solely mine but a reflection of the outstanding soldiers and teams I have had the privilege to serve alongside.”
Currently serving as the Brigade Medical Plans and Operations Officer and Brigade Nurse for 4SFAB, Fuss was nominated by her brigade Col. Johnny Casiano, 4th SFAB’s brigade commander, Maj. Zach Jones and Maj. Jeff Johnson. Her nomination highlighted her exceptional contributions to fostering partnerships across the EUCOM area of responsibility, particularly in civil-military and military-to-military cooperation. Her initiatives have impacted policy and law changes within allied nations, underscoring her pivotal role in the Advise, Assist, and Deter mission.
“Fuss is an extraordinarily talented and dedicated officer whose ability to extend her influence beyond her organization and her specified role as a company-grade nurse is nothing short of exemplary,” said Lt. Col. Michael Needham, Brigade Surgeon. “Fuss is a tenacious trailblazer who has had a real positive impact on the U.S. Army’s partnerships in Europe, and this is why she was the first Nurse Corps officer to receive this award.”
“Our partners and allies are truly remarkable, and their talent and dedication have been vital to every success we’ve achieved together,” Fuss said. “This award holds even greater meaning to me because it reflects the efforts, strength and impact of our shared commitment. I’m deeply grateful they are a significant part of this journey and this recognition.”
CPT Fuss’s recognition as the first Nurse Corps officer to receive the General Douglas MacArthur Leadership Award highlights the growing impact of Army nurses in leadership roles. As the only officer from Fort Carson honored this year, her achievement resonates across the installation, inspiring Soldiers and leaders alike.
For over three decades, the General Douglas MacArthur Leadership Award has celebrated the Army’s most promising leaders, inspiring future generations to exemplify the values of duty, honor, and country.
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