In my three enlisted years of serving in the United States Army Reserve, I’ve had the pleasure of working with units in different areas of Alabama.

My first, the 75th Combat Support Hospital, a Tuscaloosa, AL unit under ARMEDCOM, welcomed me after basic training (Fort Jackson, SC) & advanced individual training (AIT) at Fort Gordon’s Signal Center, Augusta, GA.

However, after approaching my two year mark as a Signal Support specialist, I felt the need to broaden my soldier skills & take on a second military occupational specialty (MOS).

It couldn’t have been a better choice!

My journey quickly landed me a Public Affairs slot with the Regional Support Group- East of Hoover, AL.

Much like the new kid arriving on that first day at school, I was anxious but observant when MSG Charles Blackshear called to interview me for the job.

Even though I had gleaned my interview skills in grade school at West Lowndes High in Mississippi, I was convinced that this was the Master Sergeant I needed to impress. Indeed, he did the just that.

MSG Blackshear has been by far the most impressive non-commisioned officer I’ve ever come in contact with & one of the very reasons I’ve gathered the strength & courage to step up to the call of deployment.

He epitomizes the role of the NCO by always standing ready for his soldiers. If ever I needed advice or simply questions answered, I knew I could run to him.

He’s had years of elite presidential service so even his record stands at best. Motivation was his key & military discipline were his words. For these and countless other reasons, I strive to be the best NCO I can be now & throughout my career.

I am not deploying with MSG Blackshear by my side, for now, I ready to battle with the warriors of the 314th PAOC. I am forever grateful & will continue to carry not only the NCO examples, but the entire spirit of the RSG-E as I safely deploy to serve our country.

To all RSG-E, especially Colonel Roper, 1st SGT Player, Major Fells, Mrs. Gavin, MSG Sanders, SFC Rommett, SFC Clark, SFC Mitchell, Mrs. Robinson-Johnson, Ms. Hedgemon, Lt. Col. Magee-Elliott, SSG Gladney, and others, but especially MSG Blackshear,  thanks for everything; I salute you & I’ll see you when I return!