Ed Willkie Middle School teacher Brooke Jones and Principal Brian Booker pose for a photo holding Booker's Patriot Award. Booker and Jones posed less than five minutes for photo.

Ed Willkie Middle School Principal Brian Booker was recently awarded for his dedication to supporting his staff who serve in the National Guard or Reserve.

EWMS teacher, coach, and Army National Guard 2nd Lt. Brooke Jones nominated Booker for the Patriot Award given by the U.S. Secretary of Defense Department. This recognition is the highest honor the U.S. Government can award employers for their outstanding support of staff serving in the Guard or Reserve.

“The true recognition belongs to 2nd Lt. Jones,” Booker said. “She stands as an example of leadership through service. I am proud to support her and proud to work alongside her.”

Jones, who has been an educator for six years and reservist for two and half years, said she nominated Booker because of his unwavering support for her as a teacher, coach, and soldier.

"We all have a collective responsibility to support common goals and the greater good. No matter our energy, commitment, or effort, there are few great things that are ever accomplished alone,” Booker said. “This is true of how we strive together at EWMS to support our community and the communities that nourish our staff.”