CLARKSVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — A Fort Campbell soldier was honored in a special promotional ceremony in New York City catered to the times we're in.
Nathan Pickens, 34, was promoted from staff sergeant to sergeant first class Saturday.
Pickens, a surgical tech, has been in New York City for about five weeks, helping out with the COVID-19 crisis.
"We were hitting the ground running pretty fast," said Pickens, "It was overwhelming."
In the midst of the madness, Pickens was recognized for his hard work. He was promoted in a special afternoon ceremony with his peers and fellow soldiers in the audience, watching 6 feet apart, and his family cheering him on, virtually.
"It has been challenging but exciting, you know that’s what he trains for and that’s the sacrifice they make when they’re called upon," said his wife Pamela Pickens. "That’s what they do."
Sergeant First Class Pickens has been in the army for 14 years. He and his wife have a 7-year-old son, Hunter, and 4-year-old daughter, Hannah.
