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Friday, June 26, 2009 8:18 AM Howard awarded medal Staff report FORT LEE, Va. -- After many years of providing care with dignity for fallen military personnel, devotion to duty, sound judgment, professionalism and loyalty, Douglas L. Howard was awarded the Meritorious Civilian Service Medal June 2 by Maj. Gen. James E. Chambers, Combined Arms Support Command and Fort Lee commanding general. Howard is a native of Wilson, N.C. "It's about time we recognized you," Chambers said to Howard. Chambers said he had a one, two and four star general working to get Howard his award, which was presented to him bedside at the Johnston-Willis Hospital in Richmond. Howard is now undergoing cancer treatment at another local facility. "This is not a gift," Chambers said referring to the MCSM. "This is long overdue." He was also awarded the Ancient Order of St. Martin, presented by Larry Toler, deputy to the Quartermaster Center and School commanding general. "There are some things that happen within the Quartermaster Corps that are very special," Toler said, referring to the award presentation. The Ancient Order of Saint Martin is the highest level Quartermaster award given. It is even more significant than being selected into the Quartermaster Hall of Fame, Toler said. Howard is the 12th recipient of the award. "He's been tried and found worthy as one of our trusted quartermaster members," said Toler. "There are two (military occupational specialties) that I watch over closely -- combat medics and mortuary affairs," Chambers added. "There's no other group like them in the Army. It takes great former soldiers and civilian instructors to train them and prepare them, mentally, spiritually, physically and psychologically for what they do for the nation. They are usually in the background and never get to come forward." Howard attended Saint Leo's College and is a graduate of the Dallas Institute of Mortuary Science. He is both a licensed embalmer and funeral director. "I'm truly touched and thankful for being able to serve the number of years I've been able to serve," Howard said. On Nov. 1, 1989, Howard retired from the U.S. Army at the rank of master sergeant after having served 23 years on active duty. |
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