J.M. SIMPSON: POTENTIAL IS IMPORTANT >>>

In a departure from the usual belief that only noncommissioned officers attend the Henry Lind NCO Academy, Spc. James Hemmerly is an exception to the assumption.

"The academy exists for those soldiers who demonstrate the potential of becoming NCOs," explained Hemmerly.

Assigned to 2nd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment, Hemmerly has deployed twice to Iraq.

He is quietly confident of his abilities.

Not only did he measure up to the standard for attending the academy, his attitude and work ethic resulted in his being named the Distinguished Leader of his class.

"He's hardworking, very well squared away and quiet," added Sgt. 1st Class Robert Cuthbertson, a small group leader at the Henry Lind NCO Academy. "His decision making processes are superb."

To win recognition as the Distinguished Leader, a board of senior noncommissioned officers interviewed Hemmerly.

He had to demonstrate sound judgment, knowledge of drill and ceremony, exceptional military bearing, outstanding situational thinking during a field training exercise, and overall military and general knowledge.

"He is a great leader; he did a great job," commented Cuthbertson.

As for his reasons for serving, Hemmerly joined the Army for the best of reasons.

"I owe it to my country, and that is the primary reason," he explained.

"I also want to earn money to go to school," said the native of Pennsylvania. If his plans to go to college materialize, Hemmerly wants to study biochemistry.

"He's smart enough to do anything he wants to," added Cuthbertson.

When it comes to the Army's seven core values, Hemmerly ranks selfless service as the one that is most important to him.

"You have to be willing to do things that others may not want to do," explained Hemmerly. "A soldier has to be willing to 'man up' and do what needs to be done."

As he got up to go back to work, he offered some advice for those soldiers thinking about serving as an NCO.

"Always do what is right," said Hemmerly. "And whatever you do, do it to the best of your ability."