Guam Army Guard recognizes soldier, NCO of the year

Staff Sgt. Roman Ayuyu, from the 94th Civil Support Team, left, and Specialist Daniel Mendiola, from C Company, 1st-294th Infantry Regiment, pose with the awards they received after being selected as the Guam Army National Guard’s Noncommissioned Officer f the Year and Soldier of the Year, respectively, during the recent Enlisted Awards Banquet. (Maj. Josephine Blas/Guam National Guard)

Soldiers and NCOs from each Army Guard unit competed in various events to test their physical, mental and academic capabilities for about six months, which meant the soldiers had to remain at their peak and continuously train for the duration of the competition.

Emerging as the top soldier and NCO respectively were Specialist Daniel Mendiola, from C Company, 1st-294th Infantry Regiment, and Staff Sgt. Roman Ayuyu Jr., from the 94th Civil Support Team. For their achievements, they were presented with the Army Commendation Medal, an engraved plaque and a variety gifts courtesy of the Armed Forces Committee of the Guam Chamber of Commerce.

Among the events that tested the competitors’ physical capabilities were 6-mile road marches, which were held in three different months and diagnostic Army Physical Fitness Tests that were held monthly. Other competitive events focused on Warrior Tasks such as evaluating a casualty, identifying unexploded ordnance, 9-line medical evacuation procedures, and day and night land navigation.

“The hardest part of the competition was staying focused while being physically and mentally exhausted,” said Ayuyu. “It took everything I had, but I wasn’t going to quit.”

The soldiers’ academic and mental capacities were also tested through a 50-question board examination and the Sergeant Majors board. The SGMs board is the last event where the soldiers go before five SGMs who ask them questions about a wide range of topics, including warrior tasks and current events.

“This competition is not easy and it took a great amount of effort to get to where you are at. You are the example that I want all our enlisted soldiers to strive to be”, said Command Sgt. Maj. Melchor Hennegan, the Senior Enlisted Adviser for the Guam National Guard. “You are the best of the best and should be very proud of your accomplishments. Thank you for all you’ve done!”

Recognized as runners-up were SFC Czyz Leonen, from the 105th Troop Command, and Specialist Jameishalynn Iglesias, from H Company, 29th BSB, 29th IBCT. For their accomplishment, Leonen and Iglesias were presented with the Army Achievement Medal and gift certificates, courtesy of the Guam Chamber of Commerce.

“The backbone of the Army is the noncommissioned officer. They spend time training and mentoring our younger soldiers” said Maj. Gen. Benny M. Paulino, The Adjutant General of the Guam National Guard. “Staff Sgt Ayuyu, you have no doubt proven yourself physically and mentally. As you move forward, do not forget your warrior ethos—they will serve you well. Congratulations!”

“I congratulate you Specialist Mendiola, on your accomplishments, and I challenge you to continue on the path of excellence as you continue your career,” said Paulino.

Ayuyu and Mendiola also represented Guam at the 2014 Region 7 Best Warrior Challenge in Utah recently. They competed against the best soldiers from Arizona, California, Colorado, Hawaii, New Mexico, and Utah. (GUARNG)