By Sgt. 1st Class Alon Humphrey, 1st Armored Division
Some awards recognize individual achievement. Others reflect a broader story of service, leadership and lasting impact.
For Master Sgt. Michelle Vereen and her daughter, Sgt. Alexandria Vereen-Alaniz, receiving the Col. Robert L. Manning Achievement Medal together honored both their professional accomplishments and a family commitment to supporting Soldiers.
Vereen serves as the senior career counselor for the 3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 1st Armored Division. Vereen-Alaniz serves as the senior human resources sergeant for 1st Battalion, 67th Armored Regiment. Though they work in different Army human resources specialties, both support readiness by helping ensure Soldiers receive the guidance, resources and personnel services they need throughout their careers.
The Adjutant General’s Corps Regimental Association presents the Col. Robert L. Manning Achievement Medal to individuals who make significant contributions to the Adjutant General’s Corps, the association or the Army human resources profession.
For Vereen, a career counselor, the recognition reflects the broad role career counselors play in developing and sustaining the force.
“Career counselors are more than retention experts,” Vereen said. “They are human resources professionals who directly shape the Army’s talent management strategy by retaining experienced Soldiers, advising commanders and strengthening the force.”
Career counselors help Soldiers make informed decisions about their futures while providing commanders insight into retention trends, talent needs and workforce readiness. Their work helps the Army retain the leadership, technical expertise and experience needed to accomplish its mission.
Vereen said the medal also represents stewardship of Army personnel, ethical leadership and talent development, principles that have guided her career and influenced her family.
Vereen-Alaniz, a human resources specialist, contributes to the same mission from a different role. Her work helps Soldiers and leaders receive timely personnel support, recognition and connection to their organizations.
“What makes this recognition even more meaningful is receiving it alongside my daughter,” Vereen said. “Although we serve in different specialties, we are united by the same human resources mission: taking care of Soldiers and ensuring the Army has the talented people it needs to accomplish its mission.”
The ceremony also recognized the role that mentorship and inclusive leadership play in professional development. Vereen-Alaniz received her medal from Master Sgt. Brandy Jackson-Frazer, senior vice president of the Sun City Chapter, and Command Sgt. Maj. Jean John, her battalion command sergeant major.
Vereen-Alaniz said both leaders have contributed to her growth as a Soldier and human resources professional.
“Receiving this award from two amazing senior leaders whom I deeply admire and respect made the moment even more meaningful,” Vereen-Alaniz said. “It is something I will always cherish.”
The recognition was especially meaningful because it was shared with family. Vereen-Alaniz stood alongside her mother as her father, retired Sgt. 1st Class Vereen Drafus, looked on. He served for 20 years as a cavalry scout and helped establish a family foundation grounded in discipline, resilience and service.
“Standing alongside my mom while my dad looked on reminded me of where my work ethic and dedication began,” Vereen-Alaniz said. “Their unwavering example, guidance and sacrifices shaped the person and Soldier I am today.”
The Vereen family’s service spans multiple generations and Army career fields, including cavalry, field artillery, career counseling and human resources. Their experiences demonstrate that every specialty contributes to readiness and that mentorship, professional development and care for people remain central to the Army profession.
The recognition of Vereen and Vereen-Alaniz reflects the values the Adjutant General’s Corps seeks to highlight professional excellence, stewardship, mentorship and service to Soldiers. While the medals recognize their individual achievements, their broader legacy will be reflected in the Soldiers they support, the leaders they advise and the example they continue to set.
