Hodson begins new career with National Guard after 28 years of service

Lt. Col. John Parker (right) presents Master Sgt. Bill Hodson (left) with a Certificate of Service for his 28 years in the National Guard at Headquarters Company, 110th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade in Kansas City. Hodson and his wife, Anita, were recognized for their commitment to the State of Missouri and their country. (Submitted Photo)

By Jennifer Archdekin
ngmo.pao@us.army.mil

KANSAS CITY, Mo. - After serving nearly three decades with the Missouri Army National Guard, Master Sgt. Bill Hodson closed a chapter in his military service, only to turn around and begin a new one.

Upon retiring in November as the brigade senior food service advisor for the 110th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade in Kansas City, Hodson has taken a civilian logistics position with the state headquarters. He is based in Lexington, just a short distance from his home.

In 1970, at the age of 19, Hodson joined the Missouri Army National Guard and began his career with the service battery of the 1-129th Field Artillery in Richmond. From that point on he witnessed a lot of changes in the military as it evolved to what it is today.

"One of the biggest changes is the integration of males and females," said Hodson. "When I first joined the military, males and females were segregated."

Other modifications Hodson noted were the introduction of the Internet, various uniform changes and the now greater concern for Soldier care.

For about 10 years Hodson had a break in service while he started his own business.

"I missed the Army and my business was at the point where I could rejoin," said Hodson.

And rejoin he did. Later in June 2005 Hodson deployed to Iraq with the 35th Area Support Group and was released from active duty in April 2007.

"The toughest thing I had to face during my military career was deployment," said Hodson. "It meant being away from Family."

Hodson said he will most miss training and developing young Soldiers, which explains why his promotion to first sergeant was his proudest moment while serving.

"Being a first sergeant is the most rewarding job in the Army," said Hodson.

Overall, Hodson said he has always enjoyed being a Soldier and emphatically states he has no regrets during his time as a Citizen-Soldier.

"There are too many tidbits to mention," said Hodson. "I do have lots of fond memories of my service that I will carry with me the rest of my life."

Hodson lives in Richmond with his wife, Anita, of 35 years.

For more information about the Missouri National Guard, please visit www.moguard.com and our social media sites: www.facebook.com/Missouri.National.Guard; www.twitter.com/Missouri_NG; www.youtube.com/MoNationalGuard; www.myspace.com/missouri_ng; www.flickr.com/photos/missouriguard; www.moguard.com/blog

Master Sgt. Bill Hodson (Submitted Photo)