Neal graduates from military training

CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo. -- Pvt. Austin Neal, of Gordonville, recently completed his military training to become a light-wheeled vehicle mechanic for Missouri National Guard's Forward Support Company, 1140th Engineer Battalion in Cape Girardeau.

"I joined the Guard because I wanted to follow my grandfather's footsteps. He used to be a sergeant major in the Guard," Neal said. "It's important to me to follow his example and serve my country."

He graduated from basic training and advanced individual training at Fort Jackson, S.C., Dec. 17, 2010.

Prior to training, Neal served with Company E of the Recruit Sustainment program in Cape Girardeau. Through the program, he learned basic Army skills and values and became more familiar with his role as a Soldier in the Missouri Army National Guard.

Staff Sgt. Steven Bell, recruiter at the Cape Girardeau armory, said Neal is continuing a family tradition by serving with the Missouri National Guard.

"It's great to have such a legacy," said Bell. "He's a dedicated Soldier and he'll make a perfect fit in a unit his grandfather used to serve in."

Neal will begin serving with his new unit in February 2011.

Neal is the son of Kenneth Neal, of Gordonville, and Pamela Kirkwood, of Cape Girardeau. He is a graduate of Jackson High School.

For more information about the Missouri National Guard, please call 1-800-GoGuard or visit www.moguard.com.