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Barrett-Weber, a Guardsman since 2019, is a HIMARS crewmember. He has deployed to Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Bahrain, the United Arab Emirates and some undisclosed locations to support Operation Spartan Shield and Operation Inherent Resolve. Asked what being in the Best of the Guard spotlight means to him, he said: "I feel honored that anyone would really have an interest in what I have to say. But for real though, it’s something my parents will be proud to brag about, that no one really understands or cares about. And maybe my kids will think it’s neat if/when they ever see this in the future while going through all my old military stuff."
Bayko, a Guardsman since 2016, deployed to the Middle East for Operaton Inherent Resolve and Operation Spartan Shield. "My first deployment has been my favorite part of serving so far. It took me from an area of extreme comfort and forced me to grow as a person as I had become so content with life. I no longer worked solo and began working for a team and serving others which caused me to network and develop more as an adult. ... I am hoping to spread my story of how the National Guard has enhanced my life through the opportunities I took advantage of."
Bundy, a C-130 Hercules crew chief, joined the Guard in 2018. He loves to travel. "It’s incredible to be able to explore new cultures, meet people from all walks of life, and gain perspectives that truly broaden your understanding of the world." He says the Best of the Guard spotlight serves as an example for future Airmen. "It can show them what is possible for them in their careers and demonstrates that their hard work and accomplishments can lead to meaningful recognition. It’s an opportunity to inspire others to set goals, stay motivated, and strive for excellence in their own journeys."
Cotton has served since 2019 and is deployed to Kuwait. The highlight of her service is the friendships she has made and the place she's traveled, including Latvia. "Being a part of this spotlight empowers me to do more. I hope with this recognition it impacts the next generation."
Dodge joined the Guard in 2010. He has deployed to Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, and is serving in Iraq. "I was raised with a heart to serve and defend what I love and believe in. Growing up, I always found it impossible to be silent whenever I saw an injustice or something I knew was wrong and I remain that way to this day." He says joining the Army was the best decision he ever made. "I love what I do, who I do it with, and who I do it for. It is an honor to be a part of this spotlight as a significant contributor to the successes of the Michigan Army National Guard and the U.S. Army in 2024."
Acevedo Duran has served since 2020 and is pursuing a degree in computer science. His unit delivers cyber capabilities in austere and mobile environments. During a 2023 deployment to Djibouti, Africa, he helped provide cyber capabilities to the 776th Expeditionary Air Base Squadron. "I would not be who I am if not for my mentors and colleagues who guided me through serving with purpose. To be considered (for the Best of the Guard spotlight) is already a big opportunity and highly motivates me to keep doing what I love. I want this spotlight to continue to motivate our Airmen to give everything we got to impact this institution for the better."
Edwards, a critical care flight paramedic, joined the Guard in 2019 to pay for her education. She was part of State Partnership Program exchanges in St. Lucia and Barbados. "As cliche as it sounds, but being part of this spotlight means being able to show others that there are opportunities to make a difference and to encourage those with new ideas to come forward to help pave the way for those coming after."
Gancer, a Guardsman since 2016, is deployed to Iraq. "I have always had the desire to serve, and the Michigan Army National Guard provided me with the opportunity to do so with the unique opportunity to serve in the local community, state and federal level. Both of my parents served time in the Active-Duty Army, so that contributed to my desire to serve as well."
Grounds is the third generation of his family to serve in the 188th Wing, joining in 2022 after an active duty stint. He says the military has taken him to 15 countries and taught him more about life than any school or job could have. "I have had more experiences in my 8 years in the military that normal people just don’t get to have. ... Yes, it is always a challenge to learn something new and put yourself out there. However, if we aren’t challenging ourselves to have new experiences, what are we doing?"
Iana, a medic, joined the Guard in 2010 for the education benefits and the chance to gain leadership skills, discipline and a sense of purpose. She participated in State Partnership Program exchanges in St. Kitts, St. Lucia, Barbados and Grenada. The Best of the Guard spotlight is "a chance to share my journey and the experiences that have shaped me during my service. It’s also an opportunity to represent the hard work and dedication of my fellow service members, as none of what I’ve achieved would have been possible without their support and camaraderie. This recognition inspires me to continue striving for excellence and contributing to the mission in meaningful ways."
Moncrieffe fulfilled a childhood dream by joining the Guard in 1995. He deployed to Afghanistan in 2003. The highlight of his service was assisting Montenegro, Maine's State Partnership Program partner, during a devastating cyber attack. "As a soldier from Maine, I never thought that I would have the opportunity to make a positive impact on a country on the other side of the world. But in that moment, I realized that our work was not just about serving our own country, but about serving the global community and making the world a safer and more secure place."
Moore has served since 2002. He has deployed to Kuwait, Iraq and Poland and is in Iraq. "Being part of this spotlight is an incredible honor. It allows me to share my journey and experiences, and I hope my story inspires someone to consider joining the military. If my words can encourage just one person to step forward and serve, then it will have been worth it."
Otero Perez joined the Guard in 2020 to have a better future for her family. She played professional volleyball in Puerto Rico and overseas, as well as on the Army team. "I’m happy and deeply honored to be considered for one of the Best of 2024! This recognition means the world to me, and I’m truly grateful for the opportunity to be highlighted among so many talented and inspiring individuals. Thank you to everyone who has supported and believed in me along the way this moment is as much yours as it is mine."
The 9/11 attack cemented Poulin's intent to service, and he joined the Guard in 2005. He has deployed to Qatar, Germany, Albania, Greece and Montenegro and has been involved in the State Partnership Program with Montenegro for 10 years. "My favorite part of my career has been serving the people of the country and the state of Maine. We are given a unique opportunity to be at the front line of events like elections and natural disasters when communities need support. Serving as an example of American capability and partnership through overseas missions with U.S. allies has also been a highlight."
Robinson enlisted in 2020, continuing a family legacy of service. "I was drawn to the abundance of training opportunities the military provides, such as Airborne and Ranger School." A strength and conditioning coach in civilian life, Robinson participated in annual training in Belize as part of the State Partnership Program and is preparing to deploy for Operation Enduring Freedom. "I am incredibly honored to be part of this spotlight. Highlighting the successes of our Soldiers is vital. It sets a standard of excellence and serves as motivation for others to strive toward their goals."
Rose, a Guardsman since 2015, has deployed to the Middle East for Operation Inherent Resolve, Operation Spartan Shield and is serving in Iraq. "During my deployment to Kosovo, I had the opportunity to volunteer with a local school to create a library using books that my teaching colleagues back home donated and mailed to me. That library is now used to teach children and young adults to read English, which has had a direct impact on countering radicalization of adolescents in Kosovo." Rose says he hopes his experiences will influence others to join the Michigan Army National Guard and pursue the same benefits and adventures he has had.
Topper has served for 11 years and is in the Middle East for Operation Inherent Resolve. She participated in a State Partnership Program mission in Liberia in 2016, building schools. Topper says the Best of the Guard spotlight this month "is a great way to show what being a part of the National Guard really means and all the opportunities it can provide if you let it."
Vargas, a judge advocate officer, has served since 2009. She deployed to Afghanistan as a medic in 2014 and has participated in State Partnership Program exchanges in Guyana, Barbados and Dominica. "Being a part of this spotlight is incredibly humbling. I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to represent both Florida and the Army, and I feel honored to be recognized in this way. It serves as a reminder of the importance of the work we do, and the trust placed in us to uphold the values and mission of our organization."
Varghese joined the Guard in 2024. As a chaplain, he loves serving veterans and their families. He also participated in a State Partnership Program exchange, working with schoolchildren in Timor-Leste. "This opportunity to build connections, foster resilience, and contribute to the well-being of others is a profound responsibility that I approach with great humility and dedication."