FORT EUSTIS, Va. - –
U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Rachel Underwood, 1st Battalion, 222nd Aviation Regiment instructor, was named the 128th Avn. Brigade's Advanced Individual Training Platoon Sergeant of the Year during a ceremony at Fort Eustis, April 3.
Platoon sergeants from across the brigade competed in February for the Title of AIT PSOY. The competition tested Soldiers in a variety of military skills and disciplines, physical fitness, land navigation and weapons qualifications.
"The competition was tough, but it's a motivator because you compete against the best of the best within the brigade," said Underwood. "I had to keep a 'go, go, go' mindset to stay motivated and push myself."
Col. Julius Rigole, 128th Avn. Bde. commander, emphasized the importance of the role platoon sergeants play in teaching AIT Soldiers.
"I hope the platoon sergeants realize not only the importance of their role as instructors and educators," said Rigole. "[But also] the magnificence of making a difference in the lives of Soldiers [they] teach every day."
Underwood said she holds "high expectations" for herself and her fellow platoon sergeants.
"I learned a lot about myself and my abilities as a leader during the competition," said Underwood. "I know the other platoon sergeants and I will maintain the highest standards so we can train the best AIT Soldiers in the Army."
Underwood will move on to compete in the U.S. Army Training and Doctrine Command AIT PSOY competition later this year.