CPT Michael DeForest is originally from Albany, Kentucky. He received his commission in 2007 from the United States Military Academy at West Point and earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Chemical Engineering.
CPT DeForest graduated Armor Officer Basic Course (AOBC) on December 16, 2007. He then attended Scout Leader Course before deploying to OIF V. During OIF V CPT DeForest was assigned to 2nd Brigade 3rd Infantry Division. He served as an Infantry Platoon leader in 1-64 Armor.
CPT DeForest redeployed home and was then reassigned as an Armor Platoon Leader. CPT DeForest served as a Platoon Leader until March 2009 when he assumed the responsibilities of Executive Officer. As an Executive Officer CPT DeForest conducted two gunneries, and deployed to OIF VII.
Upon redeployment from OIF VII CPT DeForest attended the Maneuver Captain Career Course and graduated in June 2011.
Upon his arrival to Fort Jackson CPT DeForest was assigned to 1-61 IN BN.
CPT DeForest's Army awards include the Bronze Star, Army Commendation Medal, and Army Achievement Medal. His military education includes Armor Officer Basic Course (AOBC) Scout Leader Course (SLC), Special Reaction Team (SRT) and Maneuver Captain Career Course (MCCC).
CPT DeForest is married to his lovely wife Brittany.
A native of Toledo, Ohio First Sergeant Bockert enlisted into the Army in September of 1995 as an Infantryman. He completed Basic Training and Advance Individual Training at Ft Benning, GA.
1SG Bockert has served in several duty positions in the Army; which include Mortarman Gunner, Squad leader, Section Sergeant, Platoon Sergeant, Brigade Operations Sergeant and Company First Sergeant. 1SG Bockert has attended numerous military course including Master Driver, Stryker NET, Air Assault School, Combatives Level IV, Battle Staff, Warrior Leader Course, Advance Leader Course and Senior Leaders Course. During his time in the military he also wrestled for the all Army team at FT Carson, Colorado. His awards and decorations include the Bronze Star( 2OLC), Meritorious Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal( 1 OLC), Army Achievement Medal( 5 OLC), Good Conduct Medal( 5 awards), National Defense Medal, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, Iraqi Campaign Medal(3), Afghanistan Campaign Medal, Global War on Tourism Expeditionary Medal, Non-Commissioned Officer Professional development Medal(3), Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Ribbon(6), Combat Infantryman Badge, Air Assault Badge and Driver and Mechanic Badge