In the heart of dedication and resilience, meet the remarkable young man who has earned the esteemed title of Soldier of the Quarter, standing out as a shining example of excellence and commitment in the ranks.

He’s honored with the title of - Specialist Bryzen Punongbayan of the Guam National Guard. “The title of bestowed upon me is a big honor and a privilege," he shared.

For the Team Binadu member, answering the call to serve in the U.S. Army was a way to continue his grandfather’s legacy, who was a U.S. Navy chief petty officer. “Thanking the peers before me who have taught me what it is to be like, being humble and being a soldier," he said.

And as a Tamuning native, the mission to defend the island is a personal one. He’s deployed to Site Excalibur, home to the Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) system.

Punongbayan said, “It’s a big honor to be on Guam and defending the key essential assets to the Marianas. There are some ups and downs to it–especially family time… there are going to be sacrifices made, but I raised my right hand and said that I’m going to defend Guam.”

And while this young soldier is dedicated to defending his home, he also has his eye on completing his higher education, pursuing his bachelor’s degree in online schooling.

“I’m going to school and on this mission. I’m trying to commission in the ROTC program. So, that’s something that I have to balance out for myself," he said. “I’m studying mass communications with journalism and cinema.”

The specialist also deemed as dedicated and motivated by his platoon leader. And adding to these redeeming qualities is this island soldier’s humility. “It’s a big honor and a privilege to be named that–even though my peers and my leaders are doing way more than I’m doing–some of them should be named Soldier of the Quarter," he said.

It’s a humble attitude and respect for his fellow service members, exemplifying just why he’s named the Solider of the Quarter.