MARINE CORPS LOGISTICS BASE BARSTOW, Calif. -- They provide devastating firepower and are part of one of the finest combined arms teams ever assembled. Decisive use of the field artillery's firepower has contributed significantly to the defense of the nation and has earned them the title, "Kings of Battle." For one Fleet Support Division Marine, being a king of battle isn't the only thing he has to be proud of this quarter.
Recently, Cpl. Jose Santos, towed artillery systems technician, FSD, was named MCLB Barstow's Noncommissioned Officer of the Quarter.
Without much time to prepare for the competition, the Rhode Island native wasn't worried about his chances.
"I was told the day before that I would be on the board," he said. "I didn't think I was going to win, but I figure if you shoot for the moon, you'll still be among stars if you miss."
After graduating from South Iredell High School, Santos enlisted July 21, 2002 because of his experiences in the Marine Corps Junior Reserve Officers' Training Corps.
"I thought it was the best thing to do because I didn't feel ready for college," Santos said.
Upon graduating from his military occupational specialty school at Marine Corps Detachment Aberdeen Proving Grounds, Md., Santos was stationed at the Combined Arms Training Center Camp Fuji, Japan.
In March 2004, he arrived at MCLB Barstow, where he works as a preservation specialist for FSD.
"I've gotten to learn a lot of new things here," Santos said about his experiences at MCLB Barstow.
With the experiences he has gained in the past four years in the Marine Corps; Santos recently reenlisted and is ready for more.
It is because of his dedication to his job, that Staff Sgt. Travis Snyder, maintenance chief, 2nd Organic Maintenance Section, FSD, decided to nominate Santos for NCO of the Quarter.
"I nominated [Santos] because he always puts his best foot forward in all that he does, in and out of the work area," said Snyder.
In the future, Santos plans on making a career in the Marine Corps.
"I hope to get into a good firing battery, go on some good deployments and see the world," he said.
To those Santos works with, this goal won't be hard for him to achieve.
"He can accomplish anything he puts his mind to because he is always motivated and willing to help another Marine," Snyder said.
As far as going on another board, Santos said it was a nerve-racking experience but would definitely compete again if the opportunity presents itself.