Story by: Sgt. 1st Class Cedric P. Mize

DIYALA PROVINCE, Iraq - Spc. Adam T. Slack, of Marysville, Ohio, was acknowledged for exemplary performance and awarded the 37th Engineer Battalion Soldier of the Year Award for 2009 this February.

The Engineer Soldier of the Year, or the Super Sapper, award was conceived and initiated in 2001 by BEA Systems, an aerospace engineering corporation based in the United Kingdom and an Army Engineer Association supporting firm member. BAE Systems recognizes that the AEA provides valuable benefits to every member to the Engineer Regiment, particularly the junior enlisted ranks, and has pledged to sponsor this means in recognizing the excellence and future potential of junior enlisted members of the Army Engineer Regiment, the future of our regiment and our Army. Slack's superior performance and potential have earned him this special recognition by the AEA.

The AEA is the professional branch association for the Army Corps of Engineers devoted primarily towards preserving the history and traditions of the United States Army Engineer Regiment.

Sgt. Michael Hansen, Slack's squad leader, says that Slack is very motivated and strives for excellence in all his accomplishments.

"He welcomes the opportunity to take charge, stands up for what's right, and always takes responsibility for his actions", said Hansen. "No matter what the mission is, you can depend upon him to ensure mission accomplishment regardless of the situation."

Slack, a heavy construction equipment operator in B. Company, 37th Engineer Battalion- Joint Task Force Eagle, based out of Fort Bragg, N.C., has been recognized several times by different commanders for his excellence during training events and other missions where his efforts ensured success.

Slack feels this award is only the beginning in what he considers to be a career of serving his country.

"I am honored and humbled to receive such a prestigious award. I am also glad to be recognized by the senior leadership in the battalion for recommending me as Soldier of the Year. I've worked really hard to achieve excellent recognition by my peers as I learn to become a Non Commissioned Officer."

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