Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, S.C. --
“I am an NCO
dedicated to training new Marines and influencing the old. I am forever
conscious of each Marine under my charge, and by example will inspire them to
the highest standards possible. I will strive to be patient, understanding,
just, and firm. I will commend the deserving and encourage the wayward. I will
never forget that I am responsible to my Commanding Officer for the morale,
discipline, and efficiency of my Men. Their performance will reflect an image
of me,” Noncommissioned Officer Creed.
Marine NCOs live and
conduct themselves according to the aforementioned NCO Creed. A selected few
embodied it and are recognize by their leadership.
Sgt. Ian Mills was
awarded the Marine Aircraft Group 31 NCO of the quarter during a ceremony held
aboard Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort Dec. 1. Mills is the operations NCO
for Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron 31 aboard Fightertown.
The selection process
starts at the lowest unit level as one representative from the work section can
represent the unit at a board. If the Marine wins, then they go on to represent
the next level of the unit on the next board and so on.
“I had a lot of
adversity to overcome in my career,” said Mills. “From getting in trouble as a Lance
Corporal to getting NCO of the quarter was a big step for me. Set high goals
and achieve them.”
The young sergeant
has distinguished himself during his career. As a Corporals Course graduate he
received the Gung Ho award, an achievement given to the student who demonstrates
the most Marine Corps esprit de Corps. He has also read multiple books on the
Commandant’s reading list and completed a senior enlisted professional military
education— a course reserved for staff noncommissioned officers.
“Always approach
everything with a can do attitude,” said Mills. “Don’t let anger or frustration
stop you from achieving your goals.”
His achievements
extended far out of the workplace by volunteering multiple hours at the local
hospital, youth football league, and helping restore headstones at the Beaufort
National Cemetery.
Mills embodies the
competitive nature of the Marine Corps. He is involved in off-duty education
and tries to complete additional PMEs to stay ahead. He not only works to
better himself but also to better the lives of his Marines.
“I’m a (Marine Corps
Martial Arts Program) black belt instructor,” said Mills. “In my off time I
offer to train Marines to help them belt-up.”
Mills’ motivation to
be a better leader not only comes from the Marines but also from the betterment
of the Marine Corps.
“I just try to give
one hundred percent every day,” said Mills. “As Marines, we have to do our
best. When you do something, don’t just do it for yourself, do it to betterment
the Corps.”