Oregon Soldier receives nationwide recognition

41st Infantry Brigade Combat Team
Story by Spc. Anita Stratton

Date: 08.25.2009
Posted: 09.15.2009 03:44
News ID: 38764
Oregon Soldier receives nationwide recognition

CAMP ADDER, Iraq - Master Sergeant Roberta Moline-Lueck, the logistics non-commissioned officer for the 41st Infantry Brigade Combat Team, Oregon National Guard, was awarded "Female Veteran of the Year" by the American Legion Auxiliary on Aug. 25.

Lueck, was nominated for the award by Post 180, Milwaukie, Ore.

The award is to honor and celebrate the sacrifices women veterans have made.

The women are graded on their community service, service in the military, organizations they are involved in and their character. Women from any of the military branches can be nominated.

Lueck has been deployed twice, first to Afghanistan and now Iraq. When she is not deployed she works with programs like American Legion baseball and youth sports in the community.

"She is committed to supporting youth and activities at the American Legion," said Mike Lueck, husband and commander of Post 180.

Lueck is not only committed to the American Legion and their activities, she is also a committed Soldier.

"She really cares about and loves her job," said Maj. Chester Cary, the logistics officer-in-charge for the 41st IBCT. "She believes in taking care of Soldiers."

"She does a very good job of making a balance of both," Mike said.

Mike and Legion President Dee Sharpes drafted the article for the award.

After the selection is made, the nominees were voted on at the state American Legion Auxiliary Board. The state winner was submitted to the national level.

"We were excited to hear that it was possible but didn't think it would pass national," said Mike.

Lueck knew nothing about the award being submitted. When she was told she won, she was surprised.

"Her reaction was 'Wow!'" Mike said. "In a deployed situation, those kinds of positive impacts are few and far between. When you get them you are caught off guard. She knew nothing about it so it was that much more of a bonus for her."

Bonus or not, Lueck's response was, "Oh gosh, I'm going to have to give a speech in public!"

Putting the responsibility of the speech aside, Lueck humbly said "I am honored. It is a big deal for Post 180."

"We have lived the life of the military for our entire careers," said Mike, also an Army 1st Sgt., Ret. "It is great to be recognized for something you appreciate and live for on a daily basis. As Soldiers we don't try to do anything special, you just do what you do. We are very proud of her and her humbled accomplishment."

Getting back to work, Lueck said, "It's time to go get supplies."