This is a printer friendly version of an article from the Wisconsin Rapids Daily Tribune. Posted with the permission.
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Former resident earns counter-terrorism award

May 26, 2007

Army 1st Class Jarrod Gack has been recognized for his extraordinary counter terrorism efforts. The National Military Intelligence Association presented him with its prestigious award at a ceremony May 6 in Falls Church, Va.

Gack is a member of the U.S. Army. For the past two years, he has been stationed in Miami, where he serves as senior intelligence analyst for the counter-terrorism branch of the U.S. Southern Command Center, which focuses on Latin America. He was recognized for work against counter-terrorism targets and concerns within Latin America.

Among those attending the ceremony were his father and step-mother, Greg and Patricia Gack of Columbus, Ohio, and his sister, Cecelia Gack Klingele of Madison.

"Because Jarrod's work is classified, it is often thankless. For that reason, it was especially gratifying to see him receive public recognition for the contributions he is making to the security of our country," said his sister. "He has worked tirelessly, served bravely and deserved this honor."

Gack enlisted in the Army immediately after graduating from Assumption High School in 1998, and was stationed in Germany for a number of years. He also served tours of duty in Kosovo and Baghdad.

"I would not have been selected for this award without the incredible team of analysts and leaders who work on the counter-terrorism mission every day," Gack said. "I am overwhelmed with their intelligence, motivation and dedication, and although I'm often the face of the division, it's the service members, civilians and contractors I work with who truly deserve recognition."

Leaders describe Gack as a distinguished intelligence professional who is highly regarded for his ability to identify and define terrorist support networks and for his in-depth understanding of the worldwide extremist environment. He is responsible for the guidance and direction of 25 intelligence analysts.

He has three children, a daughter, Aileen, and sons Jordan and Jaden.

Nancy Quick is a correspondent and former lifestyle editor for the Daily Tribune.