Marne youth, little 'Raider' pens award-winning story

By Staff Sgt. Christopher. Blakeslee, 1HBCT Public AffairsApril 13, 2012

Little Raider
Dominique Clark (left), Sgt. Bonnie Clark , a human resources specialist assigned to HHC, 1HBCT, 3rd ID, (center) and DeMonte Clark (right), proudly display the Good Writers Certificate which Dominique won for his story "Sam and the Three Hats." Domi... (Photo Credit: U.S. Army) VIEW ORIGINAL

FORT STEWART, Ga. - Dominique Clark, a young award-winning author, a standout first-grade student, and the son of Sgt. Bonnie Clark, a human resources specialist assigned to Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 1st Heavy Brigade Combat Team, Third Infantry Division, heads off to another day at school where he has developed a sound reputation as being an aspiring author.

Dominique recently won a prestigious award at Button Gwinnett Elementary School, located in Hinesville, Ga. for his story, "Sam and the Three Hats."

Much to the surprise of his proud mother, Dominique was chosen as a first place finalist in the Young Georgia's Author Competition at his school for his well composed a"I didn't think he would take it this far," said a beaming Sgt. Clark. "I mean, I know he is really smart and his teacher told me she was going to put him in for the award, but this just caught me by surprise and blew me away."

While it may have been a surprise to Sgt. Clark that Dominique could win, to Dominique it's just another day at the office, or in his case, the classroom.

"I wrote "Sam and the Three Hats" because it was really fun and I like to write stories," said a confidant Dominique. "I knew I was going to win, because I like to write, and mommy makes me study real hard."

As he finishes his statement, he appears to not really like the studying part.

Dominique's story has been sent to the state level for review. If "Sam and the Three Hats" is chosen as a finalist, he may be required to make an appearance in person at the state competition.

"If we go to the state, I'm fine with that," said Sgt. Clark. "He worked his butt off for this competition, and I support him in all he does. I'm just so, so proud of him."

Some people may wonder what story telling endeavor is next for this award-winning author.

"I don't plan on writing too many more stories. I really want to become a race track driver, so I think I need to work on that, or maybe becoming a pro basketball player."

Whether writing award-winning stories, racing cars around a speedway or playing basketball, one thing is certain, this little Raider appears to be able to accomplish much with his positive attitude, confidence in all he does, and the support of a loving mother who just happens to wear combat boots for a living.