Nicholaus Fordham, of Sherman, Illinois, was promoted to sergeant major in the Illinois Army National Guard, Sept. 16 at Joint Force Headquarters, Camp Lincoln, Springfield, Illinois.
Fordham enlisted in the Illinois Army National Guard in 1997 as a supply specialist in the 1644th Transportation Company, Rock Falls.
In 2004, Fordham accepted an Active Guard and Reserve position.
He has deployed twice, the first from 2004-2005 with the 1644th Transportation Company and again from 2020-2021 with the 232nd Combat Support Sustainment Battalion.
"Nick is a very hard worker who puts in a lot of work to make sure the unit is successful," said Lt. Col. Sean Welker, of Pawnee, Illinois, former commander of the 232nd CSSB, and .
Fordham thanked friends and family for attending the promotion ceremony.
"I have been fortunate to serve alongside several knowledgeable Soldiers, many of who became my mentors," Fordham said. "Each of you here today have played a part in where I'm at today."
Fordham thanked his wife, Stephanie.
"You have sacrificed so much, juggling four children as I deployed and went to school," he said. "You are truly amazing and you are my glue."