Airborne combat medic inducted into prestigious club

By Sgt. 1st Class Christopher FinchamJuly 29, 2011

Airborne combat medic inducted into prestigious club
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MIESAU, Germany -- An airborne combat medic from the 67th Forward Surgical Team (Airborne) was inducted into the Sergeant Audie Murphy Club (SAMC) during an award ceremony at the Yellow Ribbon Room here July 28.

Sgt. 1st Class Andrew Ruff, the 67th FST (ABN) detachment sergeant, was formally inducted into the prestigious organization, and was awarded an Army Commendation medal for his demonstrated excellence in leadership and professionalism.

According to the guest speaker of the ceremony, Sgt. Maj. Diamond Hough, who is also an SAMC member, Ruff exemplifies leadership and consistently demonstrates personal concern for the needs, training, development, and welfare of Soldiers.

“I knew Pfc. Ruff, and there was a time in his career that he might not have wanted to stay in the army when he faced adversity. But when I saw him when I arrived here in Germany, as a sergeant first class, tabbed-out, in charge of an airborne FST, and now being inducted into the Audie Murphy Club … truly helps me remember what it’s all about to be an American Soldier. I challenge each and every one of you to remember that today " because that’s what the Audie Murphy Club is about,” Hough said.

Ruff was proud to be inducted into the club and looks forward to continuing to coach, mentor and teach Soldiers, while working to live up to the example set by Audie Murphy.

“It is an honor for me to be accepted into this prestigious group of outstanding leaders,” he said. “The things that Audie Murphy accomplished are amazing and I hope that I can continue to be an example for my Soldiers as a member of the Sergeant Audie Murphy Club.”

Proclaimed as one of the greatest combat Soldiers in the more than 200-year history of the United States, Audie Murphy is recognized by many as a great American war hero and legend in his own time.

Through Murphy’s persistence, courage and leadership, he became the highest decorated Soldier in American military history. His very essence and prowess set the standard for NCOs who aspire to go above and beyond their basic leadership role.

In his honor, SAMC was established to recognize and pay tribute to Murphy and NCOs who exemplify and demonstrate “Audie Murphy-like” characteristics and abilities " setting the standards for excellence.

“It’s not just a board " it’s an indicator that demonstrates your dedication to leadership. It’s an indicator that demonstrates your dedication to your Soldiers. It’s an indicator that demonstrates your dedication to the service and your profession,” said Hough.

Story compiled by Sgt. 1st Class Christopher Fincham, 30th MEDCOM Public Affairs NCOIC. For more information please contact him at 30thmed.pao@us.army.mil.

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