By Army Capt. Latasha R. Thomas
1st Sustainment Brigade
CAMP LIBERTY, Iraq - Cpl. Olivia Haddock is serving her second deployment in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom, both times in a convoy security section. This deployment she is a truck commander for a convoy security section attached to 168th Brigade Support Battalion. She has been promotable since October 2007, but promotion points for transportation sergeants have been maxed out for just as long. As it turns out, her hard work just paid off with the renewal of an old policy.
On April 1, 2008, the Department of the Army approved a pilot program designed to promote enlisted Soldiers based on extraordinary performance while serving on the battlefields of Iraq and Afghanistan.
"Cpl. Haddock is definitely deserving of the honor, she works hard and has been a leader in this company since 2006. This [promotion] couldn't have happened to a more deserving Soldier," said Staff Sgt. Gallagher, 57th Trans Co, 168th BSB, 1st Sust. Bde.
Haddock has distinguished herself from her peers time and time again. She was the first mission commander under the grade of Staff Sgt. She set the standard, which was recognized by the Battalion commander. Because of her discipline and combat experience she was chosen to be a vehicle commander for the company's convoy security section. She has been on every mission with the section and has served with distinction.
"You couldn't ask for more in a Corporal. She just stepped up to the plate when we needed her most," said her convoy commander, Sgt 1st Class Lithkousky, 57th Trans Co, 168th BSB, 1st Sust. Bde.
Haddock was promoted to Sergeant on September 1, 2008, by Lt. Colonel Todd A. Heussner, Commander of the 168 BSB. She is an excellent non-commissioned officer and an example that we hope all Road Warriors will follow.