Christian Hughes Nooney, Harwood graduate (’04) and former Fayston resident, recently retired from the Army as a Master Sergeant after a 21 ½ year career. This milestone was celebrated at two separate events in Columbus Georgia, where his career began at Fort Benning in 2004.
On January 15, Nooney was honored at the monthly retirement ceremony at the Maneuver Center of Excellence. The event was attended by his wife, Katherine, daughters Hannah and Aleksandra, and his parents Gerry and Eileen Nooney, also former Fayston residents. He was awarded a commemorative flag and his fifth Meritorious Service Medal. He has multiple other awards and certifications, including a Commendation with a “V” device for valor for his actions in the July 4, 2009 defense of a Taliban attack on his base, Combat Outpost Zerok in Afghanistan.
On February 15, his wife hosted a celebration at the National Infantry Museum at Fort Benning. About 65 people attended, including Valley friends Jon Hyde and Kathy Mehuron and fellow Harwood ’04 graduates Joe Naples and David Strojny. Other attendees included Vermont friends he met during his career. His former soldiers and those he served with spoke eloquently about his impact on their lives and military experience.
The Nooneys are planning on staying in Columbus for a while until they decide their next chapter. All are extremely grateful for the support and prayers provided by the Valley over the years.
