Akers chosen to lead Cape's 1140th Engineer Battalion

With an extensive military background including a vast array of engineering schools, Lt. Col. John T. Akers of Troy, Mo., recently took command of the 1140th Engineer Battalion in Cape Girardeau.

Born in Richmond Heights, Mo., in 1961, Akers earned a bachelor of science degree in criminal justice administration at Central Missouri State University in November of 1983. His military education includes an engineer officer basic course, a company commander tactical course, an engineer officer advanced course, and command and general staff college.

Akers was a member of the simultaneous membership program (SMP) from September 1979 through May 1981. He was commissioned through the ROTC program at Central Missouri State University in May of 1981.

His assignments have included platoon leader, company executive officer, company commander, assistant battalion S-3, battalion S-4, 135th Group S-2, 1140th S-3 and HHD, engineer brigade, and 35th infantry division S-3.

Prior to assuming command of the 1140th Engineer Battalion, Akers' assignment was 35th Engineer Brigade, plans officer, and staff engineer section.

Akers is vice president of Akers Concrete Construction, Inc. He and his wife, Debbie, live in Troy with their two children, 4-year-old Emily Rose and 2-year-old Zachary Ryan.

Akers' military affiliations include the National Guard Association and the Association of the United States Army.

His civil and professional affiliations include the National Federation of Independent Businesses. He is a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Troy.