89th MPs celebrate the end of an era

BAGHDAD, IRAQ

08.25.2004

Courtesy Story

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89th MPs celebrate the end of an era
Story and photos by: Spc. J. Tashun Joycé

CAMP VICTORY SOUTH BAGHDAD, Iraq -- The 89th Military Police Brigade's Command Sgt. Maj. Angela C. Wilson relinquished command to Command Sgt. Maj. Charles E. Guyette, completing 30 years of military service.

In a ceremony at 89th MP headquarters on Camp Victory South, hosted by Wilson and reviewed by Col. David D. Phillips, the passing of the colors from Wilson to Guyette represented the passing of leadership. Wilson was also presented with the Bronze Star medal for her meritorious service during Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Units who participated in this ceremony included Headquarters and Headquarters Co. 89th MP Brigade, 112th MP Battalion, 231st MP Bn., 336th MP Bn., 759th MP Bn., and the 439th MP Detachment.

Wilson has served in a number of units during her tenure in the military. As a young patriot, the Alabama native enlisted in the Women's Army Corps, turning down her father's offer to put her through medical school if she didn't join the Army.

"When I joined I asked to become a medic, but there were no openings for women at that time," she said. "I chose the Military Police Corps, and boy am I glad."

Wilson has served in nearly every leadership position held by a noncommissioned officer. She served as a drill sergeant at the age of 21, with only two years in the Army. She went on to being a first sergeant before becoming the command sergeant major of the 89th MP brigade, believing that her gender had no bearing on her success.

"Whether you are male or female, as long as you're out there doing your job and taking care of Soldiers, the sex of a person doesn't really matter," Wilson said.

Wilson is one of the most senior command sergeant majors in the Army and had the opportunity to retire before heading to Iraq, but extended past her 30 years so she could be with her troops.

"Retiring from a combat zone has been the pinnacle of my career," she said. "It's an experience you can't believe or begin to talk about."

Wilson credits her drill sergeant for training her from the beginning to work hard, take care of Soldiers and lead by example. Wilson said she has tried to live up to her expectations and standards her entire career.

"I have always wanted Soldiers to do well and do their best and that's why I pushed them so hard," said Wilson. "If someone had not pushed me I wouldn't be where I am today."

"CSM Wilson was instrumental in either directly participating in or supporting the brigade in numerous missions," said Phillips. "She has been involved with countless soldier's lives through professional development, coaching, teaching and encouraging soldiers to exceed their own goals."

Wilson plans to spend time with her family and get some rest when she returns to her home in Harker Heights, and is considering becoming a teacher since she has taught so many in the military.

"I've made a lot of friends and met a lot of folks, but the ones I will remember the most are the Soldiers," she said. "I would like to thank each and every one of them from the bottom of my heart for being the strong people and Soldiers they are. They are truly the Army's greatest assets."

• Date Taken: 08.25.2004
• Date Posted: 08.25.2004 12:02
• Story ID: 267
• Location: BAGHDAD, IQ