FORT LEAVENWORTH, Kansas — Munson Army Health Center Radiology Specialist Staff Sgt. Nicholas Cagle was recognized for exceptional leadership, earning the Sergeant Major of the Army Leon Van Autreve Leadership Award at the U.S. Army Medical Noncommissioned Officer Academy Senior Leader Course, Fort Sam Houston, April 24.
The SMA Leon Van Autreve Leadership Award is among the highest honors presented at the course level, recognizing a noncommissioned officer who exemplifies excellence across leadership, academics, and professional performance,” said 1st Sgt. Scott Munday, Munson’s Medical Company senior enlisted leader.
Named after the fourth Sergeant Major of the Army, the award reflects a legacy of strong, principled enlisted leadership and a commitment to developing Soldiers.
According to Munday, the award represents more than academic success—it identifies NCOs who consistently lead from the front and invest in their Soldiers.
“Staff Sgt. Cagle set the standard among his peers through his leadership, professionalism, and commitment to excellence,” Munday said. “This recognition highlights his ability to build strong teams and develop Soldiers who are ready to meet the demands of the mission.”
Munday emphasized that leaders like Cagle are essential to sustaining readiness across the force.
For Cagle, his selection is a source of pride and confidence.
“Competing and winning was a way of proving to myself and junior Soldiers to never settle and to push yourself for progress throughout your career,” Cagle said.
“Noncommissioned officers are the backbone of our formation,” added Munday. “When we develop leaders who are disciplined, adaptable, and focused on taking care of people, we strengthen our ability to deliver care anytime, anywhere.”
The Senior Leader Course prepares NCOs to operate at higher levels of responsibility, equipping them with the skills needed to lead organizations, manage resources, and mentor the next generation of Soldiers. For medical personnel, this leadership directly contributes to delivering safe, effective care in both clinical and operational environments.