FORT KNOX, Ky. –
The U.S. Army recruiting station in Appleton, WI may regularly experience chilly temperatures, but Staff Sgt. Noel M. Daker can now sing “this girl is on fire” after being named the U.S. Army Recruiting Command's regular Army recruiting noncommisioned officer of the year.
It takes great effort to win one of USAREC’s most coveted awards; to qualify, Daker successfully navigated a series of competitions at the station, company, battalion and brigade levels; met rigorous physical fitness standards; and displayed a flawless knowledge of military customs and policies. To secure her status as the best of the best, however, she also had to be dedicated to her mission.
“I have a passion for helping others,” said Daker, “because the Army took a chance on me 11 years ago.”
Following in her family’s footsteps as a third-generation armed services member, Daker credits her mother as a person who has had a great impact on her career, always pushing her to do more in life and never give up.
While her Military Occupational Specialty is 88N, Transportation Coordinator, advice to always believe in herself fueled her goal to reclassify as a 79R, Army Recruiter.
“I assumed that my personality wouldn’t be a fit [for recruiting], but I’m a social butterfly and I literally talk to everyone, so it worked out,” Daker said.
Daker understands firsthand that recruiting duties are not always easy, acknowledging, “I remain humble because I know what it took for me to succeed.”
Her advice to new recruiters is that it will get better.
"My first year, I had four contracts [but] my second year I finished with 17,” Daker said.
She additionally recognizes that success is a team effort, stating that it is important to have a battle buddy support system at the ready, as you never know when you’ll need something and they will help you out down the road.
Daker hopes her positive outlook will help her be a great Station Commander one day, and that her sincere dedication to the men and women of the United States Army will ensure her continued success.