The Iowa Army National Guard’s 185th Combat Sustainment Support Battalion has announced Bailey Belzer as the inaugural recipient of the Fairfield High School Warrior Citizen Award — a newly established honor recognizing a student who exemplifies outstanding leadership, community service, and personal character rooted in the seven U.S. Army Values and the spirit of the Warrior Ethos.
The award, presented by the 185th CSSB, is built around three core pillars: service, defined as a selfless dedication to making a positive impact on the broader community; character, reflecting the Army values of loyalty, duty, respect, selfless service, honor, integrity, and personal courage; and tenacity, representing the perseverance and unwavering commitment embodied by the Warrior Ethos.
Belzer was selected following a thorough review of nominations by the 185th CSSB selection committee, which recognized her exceptional commitment to academics, community involvement, and personal principles as making her the ideal inaugural recipient of the award.
Belzer, who is also a member of the Iowa Army National Guard, said the recognition carries deep personal significance. “I am honored to receive this award,” she said. “As a member of the National Guard, this recognition is especially meaningful because it reflects the Army values that I strive to uphold every day. I thank God for this opportunity and am extremely grateful for the support of my family, teachers, and community. I hope to continue leading and serving others both in school and in the Iowa Army National Guard.”
The 185th CSSB, which established its headquarters at the Fairfield Armory under Lt. Col. Kiel Archer and Command Sgt. Maj. David Gossard, has made community engagement a priority since arriving in Jefferson County. The Warrior Citizen Award is the latest in a series of efforts by the battalion to connect with and invest in the Fairfield community.
