By Bill Pierce, Ohio National Guard Public Affairs
They volunteer in the local community, provide critical advocacy for victims of sexual harassment and assault, consistently apply leadership qualities throughout their formations, and successfully train, mentor and coach warrant officer candidates, all while simultaneously representing the positive values of the Ohio National Guard.
The Ohio National Guard is proud to showcase the members among its ranks who have earned national recognition for their achievements and dedicated service to their communities, state and nation.
The National Guard Association of the United States (NGAUS) has selected Ohio Air National Guard Capt. Walter Borowitz of Mansfield and Ohio Army National Guard 1st Lt. Emily Ostroski, of Raeford, North Carolina, to receive the Theodore Roosevelt Leadership Award for Company Grade Officers. Chief Warrant Officer 3 James “J.B.” Camechis, of Columbus, is receiving the Eagle Rising Award.
Due to the current COVID-19 pandemic, the awards will be presented Aug. 28-29 at the 142nd annual NGAUS General Conference & Exhibition during a first-of-its-kind, virtual ceremony.
The Theodore Roosevelt Leadership Award was established to recognize the achievements and dedicated service of Army and Air National Guard junior officers who have demonstrated outstanding leadership and professionalism in their service to country and community.
Capt. Walter Borowitz of Mansfield currently serves as the 179th Airlift Wing comptroller, as well as the wing headquarters director of staff, where he is responsible for managing the day-to-day training tasks and administrative functions for a group of about 60 additional Airmen at the Ohio Air National Guard unit in Mansfield.
He is an active member of both NGAUS and the Ohio National Guard Association (ONGA). Earlier this year, his peers selected him as the ONGA Company Grade Officer Trustee for Air. He is actively involved with the American Society of Military Comptrollers, attending the ASMC’s Professional Development Institute to further his education in his profession, and he is a member of the organization’s local Buckeye Chapter as well. Borowitz is also active in his community, serving as the treasurer of the Appleseed Premier Soccer Club while also coordinating the logistics, financing and fundraising efforts for the group as well. In addition, he provides invaluable mentorship to local youth by volunteering as a coach for the local 12U girls travel soccer club.
“It is truly a humbling experience to have been nominated for and received the Theodore Roosevelt Leadership Award,” Borowitz said. “I have been beyond blessed to have been surrounded by a great team at every step of the way in my officer career, and they have been the true testament to my success.”
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