Branch of Service: United States Army
Role in the service: Master Sergeant, Airborne Infantry, Recruiter
Position at SU: Facilities and Security Manager, Syracuse University Libraries
Paratrooper’s maroon beret: awarded in 2001 after completion of airborne training and assignment to the 173rd Airborne Brigade in Vicenza, Italy.
St. Michael (Patron Saint of Paratroopers): presented to all members of the 173rd Airborne Brigade in 2003 after the return from peace keeping mission in Kosovo and prior to the deployment to Iraq.
The US Army Maroon Beret is an iconic symbol of elite forces and represents excellence in physical fitness, mental toughness, and military expertise. It dates to World War II when British parachute units gave their red berets to newly formed American parachute units. Today, earning a maroon beret requires completing advanced airborne training that includes jumping from high altitudes with parachutes. Those who earn this prestigious symbol stand out as exceptional soldiers within the military community with added benefits like better opportunities for specialized units like Special Forces or Ranger Regiments. Aspiring soldiers must focus on developing strong stamina through various exercises to earn this honorable badge of recognition!
St. Michael was presented to all members of the 173rd prior to deployments. It is a symbol of a warrior who rose up for the vulnerable, ensuring justice for all. When airborne units were adopted in 1940, naturally he became known as the Patron Saint of Paratroopers. The symbol for myself is a way to stay connected to my brothers and sisters in arms and that even though we all come from different backgrounds and are separated from one another now, we still share a common tradition. To this day, paratroopers still wear the symbol proudly and will continue for generations.