TF Commander Reflects on Grimes

By Sgt. Ty Stafford

As a previous Gen. Douglas MacArthur Leadership award winner, The Multi-National Task Force (East) and Kosovo Force 10 rotation commander Brig. Gen. Larry D. Kay understands the importance of leadership skills.

When asked about his award Kay stated, "It caused me to reflect on the reason for the award. It was more about the support and the great people surrounding me than it ever was about me as a Soldier. Leadership is situational. The MacArthur Award taught me that surrounding myself with people who are more experienced, more talented and generally smarter than I am is a very good move."

Kay also said that it was very special having two MacArthur award-winning Soldiers in the Task Force.

"Captain Grimes has been a servant for her troops. She has sacrificed for the mission and for this country as all of us have. She has consistently placed herself between her Soldiers and harms way. She leads them through good times and bad. Her Soldiers are convinced that she works for them and it's not the other way around. They would follow her anywhere. I think that's very special."

Capt. Joy Grimes, commander of 3175th Military Police Company, headquartered in Warrenton, Mo., talks with fellow Soldiers assigned to Kosovo Force 10 Multi-National Task Force (East) rotation during training at Camp Atterbury.

Working previously as the Assistant Adjutant General - Army, for the Joint Force Headquarters, Missouri since November 2006, Kay assists the Adjutant General, Maj. Gen. King Sidwell in the formulation, development, and implementation of all programs and policies in the Missouri Army National Guard.

Kay will also lead troops on the peacekeeping mission in Kosovo and will work with a conglomerate of nations to ensure that a peacefully and democratic society is maintained there.

A veteran of Operation Desert Storm, Kay served as the executive officer for the 1267th Medical Company. The mission of his air ambulance company was aerial evacuation of wounded, transportation of critical medical supplies, and aerial search and rescue in the combat zone, according to his official biography.

Kay won the MacArthur award as a captain in 1989.

judythpiazza@newsblaze.com

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