Container inspector embodies 'Warrior Pride'

By 1st Lt. Richard Paradiso, 159th Seaport Operations CompanyMarch 8, 2010

JOINT BASE BALAD, Iraq - Spc. Roy Hickman, a container inspector with the 159th Seaport Operations Company, 80th Ordnance Battalion, 15th Sustainment Brigade, 13th Sustainment Command (Expeditionary), and Richmond, Va., native, truly embodies the spirit of the "Warrior Pride" family.

Hickman is an outstanding Soldier who continuously goes above and beyond his duties as a container inspector in the company's container repair yard.

"I love what I do; it gives me an opportunity to interact with the Iraqi people on a daily basis. I have a truly unique experience here. Other Soldiers may interact with Iraqi's on occasion but I have the pleasure of seeing their diligence and efforts every single day," said Hickman.

"Specialist Hickman continuously works at maximum effort here in the container repair yard," said Sgt. 1st Class Andre Wills, the container repair yard noncommissioned officer in charge and Indianapolis, Ind., native. "If we ever have an issue with any container or local national, specialist Hickman is always on call to resolve it, ready to get his hands dirty at a moment's notice"

"He is a highly valued member of our team," Wills added.

Recently, Hickman was recognized as the 159th SOC's Warrior of the Month.

"His efforts are recognized by everyone in the Company, whether it's a small job or making a workout plan, or even something as large as meeting a monthly deadline of 2,000 containers inspected monthly, Hickman is always prepared for the task at hand," stated Capt. Philip McDowell, the company commander and Charlottesville, Va., native.

"I get my motivation from my family and my leaders," Hickman said. "I try to do my best in everything that I do so I can provide the best life for my wife and children. I couldn't get half the work done that I do without the help of my teammates, and sergeant first class Wills is great to work for, our motivation is never low."

"[Hickman] ensures that all of our containers are deemed seaworthy, while at the same time maintaining a strictly professional working relationship with the local national contract employees," said McDowell. "He truly represents Warrior Pride".