VICENZA, Italy - Stocking supplies may not be the most glamorous job the Army offers.
But when done well, it deserves recognition.
That's why U.S. Army Europe recognized supply Soldiers from U.S. Army Africa's Headquarters Support Company - selecting the unit for the 2010 Supply Excellence Award (SEA). The Soldiers will receive the USAREUR award in March.
Before that, they face a Department of the Army evaluation team from Fort Lee, VA, who will conduct a stringent inspection in mid-December for Army-level award consideration.
Soldiers have put in long hours preparing for the competition, said Staff Sgt. Tasha Ramos, 23, of Houston, Texas, who leads the supply office team.
"At the end of the day, this job is about helping Soldiers get what they need to get their missions done," Ramos said. "That's what motivates us."
Much of their work preparing for DA inspectors was dressing up what was already a neat and organized supply room, said Sgt. Joseph Hernandez, as he straightened a dry-erase board listing pre-inspection tasks ahead. Command involvement has set the pace in the months leading up to the inspections, he said.
"That keeps us on our toes, Hernandez said.
Inspectors often look for demonstrated success in supervisory and managerial responsibilities, plus compliance with Army supply policies and procedures. They may also look at the company's ability to manage supply distribution and its efforts to improve performance.
For supply troops, the SEA is a mark of excellence for professional development, during evaluations, promotions or warrant officer selection, said Sgt. 1st Class Jeremy Newman, who oversees maintenance and supply for the company.
"In the logistics world, it's the one award that distinguishes Soldiers from their peers," Newman said.
Winners get trophies next year at the annual Army Supply Excellence Award ceremony in Washington D.C.
Being selected is a sign of excellence, said Chief Warrant Officer 4 Jessica Lee, a quartermaster expert from the USARAF G-4 supply and logistics division. Lee and other USARAF supply professionals offered guidance and mentorship to the supply Soldiers. Lee is proud of their efforts, she said.
"The company's supply operations have been tremendously improved in recent years. It is a result of the team's hard work," Lee said. "Through this recognition, Soldiers gain competence and pride in their profession."
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