MOTSU inducts its inaugural Hall of Famers

FORT EUSTIS, Va. (USTCNS) --- Recognized as one of the premiere ammunition ports in the world, the Military Ocean Terminal, Sunny Point, N.C., has safely and efficiently moved munitions to support America's military needs, around the world, for almost half a century. Now, there's a mechanism for recognizing those who have made substantial contributions to the success of that mission.

The first Hall of Fame induction ceremony was held at Sunny Point recently.

"We begin a tradition today of honoring some our most noteworthy alumni for their exceptional leadership, selfless service, dedication to duty, and contributions in supporting the mission of Military Traffic Management Command," said LTC William C. Gibson, deputy commander, 597th Transportation Terminal Group.

The first three inductees into the Fall of Fame were Joseph W. Walton, Hortense Y. Jackson, and Brig. Gen. Donald D. Parker.

"They represent the very best in Sunny Point's organizational heroes and heroines, who individually and collectively have greatly enhanced our nation's military readiness," said Gibson.

The first inductee was Joseph "Joe" W. Walton, chief, cargo operations division, who served at Sunny Point from 1955-1995. He was one of the original 100 Military Ocean Terminal, Sunny Point civilian employees, beginning his career as a security guard.

His wife, Charlotte, and their children, William, Dennis, Michael, and Pam accepted the posthumous award on Walton's behalf.

The second inductee was Hortense Y. Jackson, known as "Tense" to her friends, family, and the transportation industry.

Tense began her career with Sunny Point in 1967. Exceptional knowledge of freight traffic and cargo documentation, attention to detail, and an eagerness to develop her professional skills enabled her to progress to chief, Traffic Management Division in less than 13 years.

"I'm very proud to have been a member of the MOTSU family," Tense said. "I know the competition was tough. I accept this award on behalf of the Traffic Management Division, Sunny Point. Without them I could not have done it."

The final inductee, Brig. Gen. Donald D. Parker, commanded Military Ocean Terminal, Sunny Point from 1995 until 1997, while a colonel.

During his tour, he successfully postured Sunny Point for the 21st Century.

"I was lucky to work at Sunny Point with some of the finest professionals in the business," Parker said. "Tense worked for me and it was a pleasure to see her again and to see her receive this award. Thank you," he said. "It's always a pleasure returning to Sunny Point."

Col. George R. Montgomery, commander, 597th Transportation Terminal Group, expressed his pride to the inductees saying, "We are so proud of what you have done. On behalf of a grateful nation and organization, thank you. You are an inspiration to us all. Today we celebrate and honor your deeds. You make us proud!" (FROM MILITARY TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT COMMAND, DEPLOYMENT SUPPORT COMMAND PUBLIC AFFAIRS).