Five Illinois Army National Guard Soldiers received the Meritorious Service Medal on Nov. 16 for their top U.S. finish in the Command Sgt. Maj. William Gainey Cup competition for the best scout squad.
Lt. Gen. Jon Jensen, the Director of the Army National Guard at National Guard Bureau congratulated the 2nd Squadron, 106th Cavalry Regiment Soldiers at the Illinois Army National Guard Commander’s Guidance Seminar at the Bank of Springfield Center, Springfield, Illinois. The team placed first among U.S. teams in the May 1-5 competition at Fort Moore, Georgia. The competition “showcases the competence, physical and mental stamina, and competitive spirit of Cavalry Scout Troopers serving in formations that perform Reconnaissance and Security,” according to the U.S. Cavalry and Armor Association. The Illinois Army National Guard Soldiers were barely edged out of the top international finish by a team from the Netherlands in the competition, which is held every two years.
Maj. Gen. Rodney Boyd, the Assistant Adjutant General – Army of the Illinois National Guard and Commander of the Illinois Army National Guard presented the Meritorious Service Medals to:
Spc. Jacob Bentle of Barrington, Illinois
Sgt. Conor Mahoney of Wheaton, Illinois
Spc. Evan Quinn of Ashton, Illinois
Spc. William Pitney of Dekalb, Illinois
1st Lt. C.J. Hardy of Elmhurst, Illinois
The Meritorious Service Medal is presented by the United States Armed Forces to recognize superior and exceptional non-combat service. It is rare for enlisted Soldiers or officers to earn the medal early in their careers.