Kearns promoted while serving in Iraq

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AL BAKIR AIRFIELD, Iraq — Sgt. Larry Kearns of Walnut is preparing to shape the future of the Army as he joined the ranks of the non-commissioned officers Oct. 1.

Kearns, a team leader in B Co. Light Equipment Platoon, received his promotion from specialist to sergeant and is now among those known as “The Backbone of the Army.” His promotion is highlighted by the celebration of 2009 as “The Year of the NCO.”

“Sgt. Kearns is a hard worker who always accomplishes his mission,” said Sgt. Michael Hansen, Kearns’ squad leader. “As an NCO, I know he will always look after his soldiers.”

After serving more than three years as a junior enlisted soldier, Kearns now must lead and build his team into the confident and skilled soldiers that will produce tomorrow’s leaders. Kearns enlisted in the Army June 20, 2006, as a heavy equipment operator. He is assigned to the 37th Engineer Battalion - Joint Task Force Eagle based out of Fort Bragg, N.C., and currently deployed to Iraq.

Currently, Kearns’ unit conducts earth moving construction and quality control missions in support of civil capacity improvements in the Salah Al Din and Diyala Provinces, Iraq. As an equipment operator and supervisor, Kearns brings valuable skills that will help ensure mission success.

“Becoming a non-commissioned officer is a huge step in a soldier’s career,” said Capt. Brandon Bowman, B Co. commander. “Sergeant Kearns is more than ready to take that step and I look forward to seeing him lead soldiers.”

Lt. Brossett is with the 37th Engineer Battalion (Combat) Airborne — Joint Task Force Public Affairs.

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