Cadet 2nd Class Jarred Guthrie was named the 31st recipient of the Richard A. Whitfield Memorial Award at a Company G-3 dining-in May 28.

The award is given during graduation week each year by Whitfield’s parents to recognize their son, who lost his battle with cancer during his cow year in 1970.

The Whitfields have traveled from Florida to New York each year since to honor the selected G-3 squad leader with an award the company started in his honor, according to G-3’s tactical officer, Maj. Scott Custer.

Nominations for the award are based on recommendations from squad members, the chain of command and the tactical cell, combined with consideration of the nominee’s qualities that set him apart as a squad leader.

"Cadet Guthrie is mature beyond his years. He is both a confident and competent cadet," said Custer. "He is respected by his subordinates, peers and superiors alike."

Guthrie is also modest.

While he remembers attending the ceremony each of the past two years and is cognizant of its significance, he was unaware he had been nominated a candidate for the award this year.

"You normally know (as an underclassman) who is going to get it because the individual really stands out," he said.

His winning was a total surprise.

"It is truly an honor. The courage Richard showed in his fight, and his determination to win and return to the Corps ... it is very emotional. You feel that what you do pales in comparison to the sacrifice he made," said the newest Whitfield Award winner. "I had no idea I was a nominee."

As a squad leader, Guthrie was responsible for the academic, physical and military welfare of 6 to 11 cadets. He counseled each of them monthly and was a vital factor in recommending them for awards, placing them in increased positions of responsibility and, when necessary, disciplining them, Custer said.