NEW CUMBERLAND, Pa. –
Army Sgt. 1st Class Franz E Tovar, noncommissioned officer in charge, Aerial Delivery and Textile Section, DLA Distribution Susquehanna, Pennsylvania, has retired from the Army having served 24 years in uniform.
While coworkers, family, and friends watched, Army Col. March J. Callis, II, commander, DDSP, presented Tovar with the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Army Certificates of Retirement and Appreciation, a United States Flag, and the DDSP Pallet award during Tovar’s retirement ceremony held at the Eastern Distribution Center in New Cumberland, Pennsylvania, Jan. 30.
Callis presented a Department of the Army Certificate of Appreciation to Tovar’s spouse, Yahaira Ramirezherrera, for her unfailing support and understanding which helped to make her spouse’s lasting contribution to the Nation.
During his remarks, Tovar thanked everyone for attending and he shared his story of how he came to be in the Army.
“A friend of mine asked me as a favor to talk to a recruiter so that he (friend) can go into the Army as a Pvt. 1st Class if he brought two friends along with him to talk to a recruiter. I agreed to talk to the recruiter, but there was no way I was joining the Army,” recalled Tovar laughing.
“I went and talked to the recruiter and two hours later I came out with an ASVAB appointment. I took the test, but then I told the recruiter that I wasn’t interested in joining the Army, that I was just talking to a recruiter for a friend. The recruiter said, ‘I’ll put you in the delayed entry program. We’ll give you two months to think about it.’”
Tovar continued, “Well, I thought about it, and once I start something, I have to see it through. It’s crazy, but 24 years go by quick.”
In his remarks, Callis mentioned that Tovar is a quiet professional with an endearing demeanor, and sound leadership instinct, who is committed to the mission and to those performing it. He lauded Tovar as a well decorated leader who has much to be proud of.
Callis referenced Tovar’s 24 years of committed selfless service, which serves as a testament to his character, competence and patriotism.
“You’ve left a lasting legacy that has undoubtedly impacted numerous soldiers in ways you’ll never fully realize or become aware of. We’re proud of you.”