West Virginia NRCS Soil Technician Honored

NRCS Beckley, West Virginia, Service Center Soil Conservation Technician Laura Davis was recently awarded the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) Commander’s Award for Civilian Service for her work during the Hurricanes Katrina and Rita recovery efforts in Louisiana, October 31, through December 29, 2005. USACE Memphis, Tennessee, District Engineer Colonel Charles O. Smithers III presented the award to Laura for her initiative and skill in devising new or improved equipment and work methods, her leadership in performing assigned duties, and her public relations service that resulted in considerable positive local publicity.

While serving as a Debris Removal Mission Quality Assurance team leader for the Louisiana Recovery Field Office (LA-RFO), she “…exhibited energy and knowledge while supporting the mission. Her work ethic, professionalism, and leadership and management abilities were significant factors in the success of the Jefferson Parish recover efforts. Her outstanding performance and contributions reflect selfless devotion to duty and reflect great credit upon her, the LA-RFO, and the U. S. Army Corps of Engineers” (inscription from the Commander's Award for Civilian Service certificate).

The Commander's Award for Civilian Service, consisting of two medals, a ribbon, a lapel button, and a certificate, is comparable to the U.S. Army Commendation Medal.

Your contact is Carol Lagodich, NRCS public affairs specialist, at 304-284-4826.