Pfc. Villagomez completes basic, graduates at top of class

Pfc. Gregory T. Villagomez

Pfc. Gregory T. Villagomez, recently graduated from the US Army Basic Combat Training and Infantry Training as a member of the Delta Company 2nd Battalion 19 Infantry Regiment in Ft. Benning, Ga., after completing 14 weeks of vigorous physical training, discipline core values, leadership, warfare principles and skills. Pfc. Villagomez graduated at the top of his class. He was one of four soldiers chosen for "Soldier of the Cycle." He also earned the "Honorary Home Town Recruiter" and pinned expert marksman. Upon graduation from Basic/Infantry Training, Villagomez went on to Airborne Training. This was three weeks of intense training.

Villagomez was honored to have both of his Retired Army grandfathers at both graduations. They placed his Blue Cord on his arm and pinned him with the Infantry pin. His grandfathers also pinned him with his Jump Wings. He said, "Those two days meant the world to me! To have both my grandfathers of North Carolina, (1st Sgt. Jacobson and Command Sgt. Maj. Villagomez) who combined served 55 years were here to pin me, I felt honored." My grandfather Myron Esler, of Iowa (World War II) wasn't able to be here.

Pfc. Villagomez is stationed in Vicenza, Italy. He is with the 173rd Infantry Airborne 2/503rd He will be deployed for Afghanistan before the year end.

He is the son of John and Kim Esler of Storm Lake, Iowa. His father Carlos Villagomez, and brother John Villagomez live in Canton, Ga. He is the grandson of Mr. and Mrs. Charles Jacobson and Jesus Villagomez and Wanda Villagomez, all of Fayetteville, N.C., and Mr. and Mrs. Myron Esler of Eagle Grove, Iowa.

Pfc. Villagomez graduated from Storm Lake High School in 2006. He attended college in Georgia and Iowa, majoring in business. He will finish earning his degree while serving his country. He attended Nevada Middle and High School in Nevada, Mo., from 2000-'04. Greg attended Baldwin Elementary K-6 and South View Junior High in Hope Mills/Fayetteville, N.C.. He still keeps in touch with many class mates and some are also serving their country.