2023 USAR Drill Sergeant of the Year (DSOY): Drill Sergeant Naimah Cabbagestalk

FORT SILL, OK, UNITED STATES

04.19.2024

Story by Maj. Jacqwayne Griffin 

108th Training Command- Initial Entry Training

Drill Sergeant Cabbagestalk commemorates her selection as the 2023 DSOY during the Drill Segreant Belting Ceremony at Fort Sill on April 19, 2024.

"As a reservist, I didn't know you could become a drill sergeant. It made me wonder if I didn't know, who else doesn't know that you don't have to join active duty to become a drill sergeant," said USAR DSOY Cabbagestalk.

The Drill Sergeant of the Year (DSOY) competition is hosted by the Center for Initial Military Training every year at various TRADOC Installations. The competition includes tasks taught at Basic Training, such as rifle marksmanship, physical readiness training, first aid, hand grenade training, land navigation, and confidence course. Competitors must demonstrate proficiency in performing selected soldier skills and teaching those tasks to trainees in a simulated environment.

Command Sergeant Major Juddiah Mooso, the Senior Enlisted Advisor for the 108th Training Command, explained the significance of being recognized as the Army Reserve's Drill Sergeant of the Year:

"Similar to other competitive programs, the Drill Sergeant of the Year (DSOY) competition is an opportunity for our finest Drill Sergeants to put their skills to the test against a field of their peers. Each of the three Training Divisions and the U.S. Army Drill Sergeant Academy crowns their respective Reserve DSOYs. Those DSOYs come together to compete at the CIMT event for an opportunity to become the 108th TC and Army Reserve DSOY. The USAR DSOY title requires a 12-15 month commitment to serve in a full-time active duty status (Active Duty Operational Support, Reserve Component (ADOS-RC) at CIMT HQ in Ft. Eustis, VA. During this time, the USAR DSOY is an ambassador for the Army's Drill Sergeant Program. Furthermore, the AR DSOY acts as the voice of Army Reserve DS nationwide, representing them at the highest level."

Throughout the competition, the competitors must push themselves to their limits and beyond, demonstrating focus, determination, and resilience. They battle fatigue, weather, and unexpected events while showcasing their mastery of skills, including orienteering, rappelling, marksmanship, drill and ceremony, and the ability to teach coach, and mentor soldiers.

Drill Sergeant Naimah Cabbagestalk emerged victorious from the grueling four-day competition, earning the prestigious 2023 United States Army Reserve Component Drill Sergeant of the Year title. Her dedication, unparalleled skills, and exceptional leadership qualities set her apart from the rest of the highly competitive field and earned her the respect of her peers and seniors. This remarkable achievement is a testament to her commitment to excellence and unwavering service to the nation.

"This is truly a unique and prestigious opportunity, and I have no doubt that DSOY Cabbagestalk is up to the task. She is a professional, disciplined NCO who will represent the 108th TC and the United States Army Reserve well, " said Command Sgt. Maj. Mosso, Jussiah.

• Date Taken: 04.19.2024
• Date Posted: 05.07.2024 16:08
• Story ID: 470546
• Location: FORT SILL, OK, US