POINT PLEASANT--The second time was the charm for John Harper, Specialist in Automotive Supply, when during his second stint of serving his country in the National Guard he was named West Virginia Soldier of the Year.
After winning battalion competition in Charleston in January, Harper was sent to the state level last month, where he walked away with the illustrious title.
"What was done up there was nothing really out of the ordinary," Harper said. "I'm just average up here. W.Va is the No.1 state in the U.S. as far as readiness is concerned and there are hundreds of outstanding soldiers in this state and in this unit," Harper added, "This is the best maintenance company in the United States."
To secure the title, Harper had to pass uniform inspection, present proper physical appearance and military bearing, then sit before a board of command sergeant majors from around the state and answer any question they may have.
Questions may range from soldier's common tasks to the various family programs the Army offers.
Harper has served in the National Guard from 1978 to 1982 and returned to duty two years ago.
"I just wanted to serve the state and the community and get some more education," Harper said, "I just enjoyed being in the guard and wanted to be a part again."
Harper sees the National Guard as a viable opportunity for people throughout the community.
"In this area, there's just not a whole lot of opportunity for everyone and you really have to excel to get anywhere and the Guard gives you that opportunity," Harper said, "Unless a person can get a job making $20 or $30 an hour somewhere with job security and benefits and everything, there's nothing better in my book."
Harper's superior officer, Robert Davis, Commander of the 3664th Maintenance Division, shared in his Specialist's pride.
"I think it's great," Davis said, "Specialist Harper is an outstanding soldier and an outstanding individual."
Harper received quite a cache of rewards in addition to the title of Soldier of the Year.
"I have a plaque, they gave it to me then took it back because they needed to engrave it," Harper laughed. "An Army commendation medal, a $100 savings bond, and just a lot of congratulations and respect all around from my fellow soldiers, which means a lot too."
Harper, along with his wife, Carolyn, and two boys, David and Robert, currently reside in Point Pleasant.