Wisconsin's top-ranking military officer bestowed awards on 40 service men and women today.
Major General Al Wilkening says the awards honor the seldom-recognized noncommissioned officers and enlisted personnel who bear the bulk of military service.
He made the presentation at the 42nd annual Military Achievement Awards ceremony in the Capitol Rotunda.
Specialist Traci Smet is an Army National Guard reservist based in Appleton who received an award.
She says it meant a great deal to her and means she's doing her job well.
Staff Sergeant Nathan Weier received his second military achievement award after his first last year.
He says it means he's put in a lot of hard work and means a lot to him and his family.
Wilkening also took a moment during the presentation to thank the families of the honored soldiers for their sacrifices through long deployments of active duty.
