Wentzville National Guard Soldier Surprised with New Rank

A Wentzville resident who is a Missouri Army National Guard member received a surprise promotion Friday during her unit's March drill at the Ike Skelton Training Site in Jefferson City.

Jacqueline Courtney, public affairs specialist with the 70th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment came to drill as she does every month. She didn't know she would leave training as a corporal.

During the unit's morning formation, Courtney was unexpectedly called to the front. She didn't know what was going on at first.

"It took me a moment to realize what was going on, but once I did I was pleasantly surprised," Courtney said. "I feel honored by the confidence that my command has instilled in me and with the responsibilities that they have now entrusted me with."

Major Tamara L. Spicer, the unit's commander, said Courtney is ready for
the new rank.

"Cpl. Courtney is an outstanding soldier and deserves this promotion," Spicer said. "She served in two state emergency missions in 2011, supporting the and flooding in the northwest part of the state."

Courtney was previously a specialist. Specialists and corporals share the same pay grade. However, corporals have more responsibilities and take on noncommissioned officer responsibilities.

"Being an NCO is a role that I regard with great importance and I'm grateful for the opportunities my unit has provided me with,” said Courtney.

She joined the Missouri National Guard in June 2008.

"I want to become a well-rounded individual and become a published journalist and photojournalist," Courtney said. "That has all been attainable through the Missouri National Guard."

She is working on a communications degree at Lindenwood University.