Wildwood resident Spc. Jose L. Gomez received the Army Achievement Medal during a ceremony at the 253rd Transportation Company's headquarters at the National Guard Armory at Cape May Courthouse. The Achievement Medal is one of the Army's highest peacetime awards.

Spc. Gomez received the award for meritorious service as the 1st Platoon Team Leader. "Spc. Gomez extraordinary efforts and accomplishments were instrumental for completion of the missions of the 253rd Transportation Company during annual training at Fort Dix. His outstanding performance brings great credit upon himself, the 253rd Transportation Company, and the New Jersey Army National Guard," stated Capt. Michael Ciarrocca, Commander of the 253rd Transportation Company. The Army Achievement Medal is awarded to members of the Armed Forces who, while serving in any capacity with the Army in a non-combat area, distinguish themselves by meritorious service or achievement.

162 members of the 253rd were mobilized Feb. 7, part of the largest mobilization of Army Guard troops since the Persian Gulf War more than 11 years ago. The 253rd Transportation Company is part of the 119th Corps Support Battalion, New Jersey Army National Guard and was one of three New Jersey Army National Guard units activated for during Operation Desert Storm/Desert Shield.