Photo By 1st Sgt. Scott Raymond | State Command Chief Warrant Officer Dean Stoops presents the Warrant Officer Jess...... read more read more
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FRANKFORT Ky. – Throughout his military career, Jess Willard viewed warrant officers as the most professional experts in their field. What was once a dream has now become a career move for one Kentucky Guardsmen.
Newly commissioned Warrant Officer Willard, graduated Warrant Officer Candidate School at the State Capitol in Frankfort, Sept. 27.
Willard has deployed three times during his 15 years in the military. He has deployed in support of Operation Enduring Freedom, Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation New Dawn. He hopes to pull from his experience on those deployments and use those lessons as he progresses as a warrant officer.
“The experience has taught be to be a better leader and trainer,” said Willard. “I can use my knowledge from the past about warrior tasks and battle drills and prepare my Soldiers for the modern aspect of what they’ll be facing in the future.”
During the graduation, Willard was awarded the Association of the U.S. Army Plaque for demonstrating the highest standards of leadership throughout the course.
“My goal wasn’t to graduate with all of the honors in one portion of the school,” said Willard. “I wanted to be proficient in every aspect of the class from start to finish. I succeeded in that, and it showed. It was a high honor to receive that award.”
He contributes his success to the leaders that came before him, and wishes to thank them. However, his wife, Heather contributes it to his diligence during his schooling.
“He spent a lot of time at his desk studying,” said Heather. “I was very supportive in his dream because I knew that he’d succeed. All of his hard work paid off and I’m very proud to call him my husband.”
As he transitions into his new role as a leader, Willard hopes to help his Soldiers succeed by molding them to be the best versions of themselves that they can be.
“To be successful in this organization, you need to put forth maximum effort at all times,” said Willard. “To be the best, you need to focus on the big picture, not just one. Stay up on your physical fitness, always show growth in your knowledge, and be an expert in your field.”
| Date Taken: | 09.27.2014 |
| Date Posted: | 09.28.2014 14:21 |
| Story ID: | 143516 |
| Location: | FRANKFORT, KY, US |
| Web Views: | 37 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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