My Texas Parks and Wildlife Department Award recently appeared in my favorite newspaper in the USA (hometown). I was an ornery youth in Butler and a mediocre student at best. I decided to join the U.S. Air Force in 1974. (Debra, my wife, tells me to tell my story - that ornery kids can,"get their act together"). My family (Rogers, Searfus, Suttons, Woodys) served with distinction and pride. Some made the eternal sacrifice. I got my act together thanks first of all to the Good Lord! I won't list all my awards and can't talk about many of my experiences. Here's a partial list:
Honor Graduate - USAF Basic Training; Honor Graduate - USAF Tech Training; Tech Training Student Leader; Expert Marksman; Distinguished Graduate Intelligence School US Army Ft Devens, Distinguished Graduate Intelligence School Goodfellow AFB, National Defense Medal, USAF Achievement Medal; USAF Commendation Medal, Joint Defense Meritorious Service Medal. I completed Hospice Volunteer Training in Sumter, S.C.; BHS Alumni President, Employee of the Quarter- Texas State Library and Archives Commission. I received my retirement medal from US Army General Alfred Valenzuela of San Antonio, Texas. General Valenzuela started out as an, "ornery youth". I served as Camp Director for some awesome young folk in the judicial district that included Bates, Henry and St. Clair Counties. I just wanted to share my story that, "ornery youth" can get it together. I share this not to boast but to praise the Lord and give hope to young people who struggle with life issues and trying to decided what to do with their lives. Major Jed Rogers USAFR - Retired