I think both PFC Bernat (l) and LTC Perez are enjoying this moment.

One of the best things about being the commander of a military unit is being able to recognize Soldiers for their achievements.  My boss, LTC Ignacio Perez, would definitely agree.  He relishes the moments when he can bring a smile to a Soldier’s face by presenting them with an award.  Today, he was able to do that for our most junior Soldier.

For those of you who follow our blog, you likely will recognize PFC Christine Bernat.  She is a “renaissance woman” — able to draw wonderful anime art, solve complex computer problems as our assistant Information Management Officer, create rich multi-layered graphics with Photoshop, put together musical presentations with her photographs, and shoot the heck out of anything with a variety of weapons.  Now you can add one more skill — poetry.

Last week you were able to read one of her poems on this blog in an entry titled, “How I Cope”.  If you have not read it yet, I encourage you to take a couple minutes and learn more about the challenges we all face – and how she insightfully describes it through her words and emotions.   The poem was recently sent to various military publications with words of encouragement — so look for it elsewhere in the near future.

Today, LTC Perez added his own stamp of approval by presenting PFC Bernat with a Certificate of Achievement as part of the 314th Public Affairs Excellence Program.  Her poem took 1st place in the “Special Products” category. 

Besides the kudos from the commander, and the smile on her face (as evidenced in the picture), PFC Bernat also earns 5 points in future promotion boards.

If you want to see more of PFC Bernat’s work, check out her previous blog entries.