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FORT CARSON, Colo. — Command Sgt. Maj. Istvan Mezei, who previously served as the senior enlisted leader of 4th Battalion, 10th Special Forces Group (Airborne), has been selected as the recipient of the 2026 U.S. Frederick Award, recognizing the U.S. Army Special Forces Noncommissioned Officer of the Year.
Presented annually by the First Special Service Force Association, the award honors a Special Forces NCO who demonstrates exceptional leadership, professionalism and service to the Regiment. Mezei was nominated by 4th Battalion Commander Lt. Col Zachary Griffiths and endorsed by 10th Special Forces Group (Airborne) Command Sgt. Maj. George Graham and the group command team for his leadership in improving battalion readiness, strengthening the organization and supporting operational requirements over the past year.
"It's an honor to be nominated by the group," Mezei said. "This award reflects the Soldiers and leaders who put in the time and effort every day to make the organization better. I'm fortunate to be part of a great team."
Mezei said his leadership philosophy is simple: show up every day ready to work, learn from mistakes and take care of the people around you.
"Come to work every day and give 100 percent—and then some," Mezei said. "Don't be afraid to make mistakes; just don't make the same mistake twice. Focus on making your team and organization better, and let your work speak for itself."
After more than 17 years with 10th SFG (A), Mezei said he hopes the recognition highlights the Soldiers of the Group more than his own accomplishments.
"This award belongs to the organization as much as it does to me," Mezei said. "Everything we've accomplished has been a team effort, and I'm proud of what our Soldiers continue to achieve every day."
| Date Taken: | 08.06.2026 |
| Date Posted: | 08.27.2026 18:29 |
| Story ID: | 571786 |
| Location: | FORT CARSON, COLORADO, US |
| Web Views: | 33 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
This work, 4th Battalion Command Sergeant Major Receives Prestigious U.S. Frederick Award, by SGT Zachary Myers, identified by DVIDS, must comply with the restrictions shown on https://www.dvidshub.net/about/copyright.
