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ASA-Dix commander earns prestigious infantry award

  • Published
  • By Airman Ryan Throneberry
  • Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst Public Affairs
JOINT BASE MCGUIRE-DIX-LAKEHURST, N.J. --  The National Infantry Association selected Col. Patrick Slowey, Army Support Activity-Dix Commander, for the highest level of the Order of Saint Maurice infantry medallion late November.

Lt. Col. Hugh Elmore, 1-307 Infantry Battalion commander and National Infantry Association North East Patriot Chapter president and Chaplain (Maj.) Michael Pope, ASA assistant command chaplain, presented Slowey the award Dec. 15 at the Timmerman Center.

This award is only given to those who have served the infantry community with distinction, demonstrated a significant contribution in support of the infantry and represent the highest standards of integrity, moral character, professional competence and dedication to duty.

The commander's staff enticed Slowey to the Timmerman Center under the guise of a commander's holiday briefing. He said he had no knowledge of his nomination and was surprised when he was called forward to receive the decoration.

"What a surprise," said Slowey. "Believe me, I don't get surpised often because I usually have good intel."

Slowey's medallion was designated as being worthy of the primicerius level, the highest level of this decoration. The primicerius level is reserved for recipients who made a significant and lasting contribution to the entire infantry.

"The Order of Saint Maurice is a very prestigious award," said Elmore. "We certainly don't hand it out like candy."

Slowey was instrumental during the joint-base merger. Fort Dix, Lakehurst Air Engineering Station and McGuire Air Force Base integrated Oct. 1, 2009 to become Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst.

His leadership was key to a successful transition, ensuring there was a seemless shift to merge support services.

The origin of the Order of Saint Maurice dates back to 287 A.D., during the time of the Roman Empire. Maurice was the leader of an entirely Christian legion of Soldiers from Thebes. He and his men were called upon to kill innocent civilians. Maurice refused the inhumane order. He would not relent even as his men were killed as punishment. Maurice and his men were eventually all killed by their commander and fellow legionnaires. Saint Maurice is the embodiment of courage, justice, commitment to principal, leadership and gallantry.

"This is an honor that ranks higher, in my opinion, than receiving the Legion of Merit when I left Hawaii," said Slowey.

Slowey will soon retire from the Army after 28 years as an infantry officer.

He joked, "Most of you know I am going to retire this summer ... and most likely, the next time I will be wearing (this medal) is in my casket."