FORT EUSTIS, Va. –
According to the Bureau of Labor and Statistics, less than half of 1 percent of the entire nation currently works as an active duty military member. Also, statistics show the average Service member is smarter, stronger and healthier than the average American.
For two U.S. Army Soldiers at Fort Eustis, being a member of this elite group of citizens was only the first step. They were determined to be the best of the best.
After many hours studying, dedicating years to the Army and minds set on success, Sgt. Anna Leverenz, U.S. Army Training and Doctrine Command Band member, and Sgt. Seongbok Park, 7th Sustainment Brigade, 11th Transportation Battalion cargo specialist, were named the Fort Eustis Soldier and Non-Commissioned Officer of the Year, respectively.
"The Army's strength comes from America's strongest people," said Command Sgt. Maj. Dennis Woods, TRADOC Initial Military Training command sergeant major. "Only 2.8 percent of Americans can even apply for the military, and far fewer [actually] apply. Today, we have the opportunity to recognize some outstanding Americans, and the privilege of acknowledging the greatest among them."
While the two winners were dedicated to earn chance at the title, they knew it would be a challenge. Newly-promoted Leverenz looked toward her peers for guidance, including her competition.
"So many Soldiers are worthy of praise for the work they do," said Leverenz. "I learned a lot about being an NCO while preparing for the contest. I quickly discovered there is no shame in asking for help from anyone, because everyone has something unique to them that could "make-or-break" a submission package."
Park shared similar sentiments, emphasizing how hard work was the key to success no matter what endeavors Service members undertake.
"I am older and I managed to come away with this honor," said Park. "I know sacrificing free time, which I could spend with my family, was the only way to compete. There is no easy way to win. I hope other Soldiers see me and think, 'He won, and he is 40. If he can do it, so can I.'"
While many may see such awards as unobtainable, Leverenz and Park overcame shortcomings that were hindering their success in the past.
"For me, physical fitness had always been a challenge," said Leverenz. "I had to change my mindset and my attitude if I was going to succeed in the Army. Once [I] succeeded, I knew I could go even further."
Park, who is not native to the United States, struggled with his speech and accent, but learned to adapt and overcome adversity to be a better Soldier.
"English is not my first language, and that is obvious when someone meets me," said Park. "I have a lot of trouble speaking and finding my words, but the more I practice, the better I sound. It is always about practice."
Woods commended both Soldiers on their dedication, and said their triumph goes beyond Fort Eustis.
"These individuals are members of professional organizations, attend school, go to the gym and, in all categories, shine above their peers," said Woods. "They are more than the best Soldiers we have to offer, they are examples of the best citizens of our generation."