Wells retires from Army after 22 years of service

Master Sgt. Brian R. Wells recently retired from the U.S. Army. The ceremony was held at the Old Executive Office Building at the White House complex. The Army and the White House Communications Agency paid a special tribute to Wells for his 22 years of service. First lady Laura Bush signed a letter of appreciation for Wells' direct support as a member of her traveling team. At the ceremony he also received letters from President Bush and former presidents George H.W. Bush and Bill Clinton for his service and direct support during their presidencies.

Wells enlisted in the Army in June 1985, specializing in microwave, satellite and communications repair. He served two tours in the White House Communications Agency. His other assignment was in the elite first Special Forces Operational Detachment -- Delta (Delta Force).

In June 2001 he was promoted to master sergeant while assigned to 1st SFOD-D. He deployed in February 2002 in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. Wells had been deployed overseas during the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, and immediately began his support of OEF at that time.

During his career, Wells earned numerous awards including three meritorious service medals, five joint service commendation medals, five joint service achievement medals, an Army commendation medal, an Army achievement medal, six joint meritorious unit awards, the Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary medal, the Global War on Terrorism Service medal and the NATO medal. He has also earned the presidential service, combat action, free-fall parachute and parachute badges.

Wells now resides in Odenton, Md., with his wife, Kathy, and children, Anina and Lucas.

His parents are Calvin and Carol Wells of Cape Girardeau; grandparents are Pearl Wells and LaRee Thexton of Colony, Kan.

-- From staff reports