CSM Ronnie "Coldblud" Bussey Lifetime Achievement Medal
The Command Sergeant Major Ronnie "Coldblud" Bussey Lifetime Achievement Medal is one of the two highest decorations awarded to 7th Cavalry Gaming Regiment members for significant real life contributions to the Regiment. The medal was commissioned in 2012 after the passing of its namesake, CSM Ronnie Bussey.
Introduction
The award was created in honor of CSM Coldblud and his extensive work creating the administrative structures of the 7th Cavalry Gaming Regiment.
History of the Awards Namesake
Command Sergeant Major Ronnie Bussey enlisted in the 7th Cavalry Gaming Regiment in June of 2010. Upon completion of Basic Combat Training (BCT) and Advanced Individual Training (AIT), he was assigned to Alpha Company 2-7 CAV and assigned the Military Specialty (MOS) 11B Infantryman. Within four months, he was assigned as a Section Leader within his company. His experience and leadership ability was immediately recognized. He was promoted from Specialist directly to Sergeant Major in December 2010, to fill the urgently needed position of 2nd Battalion Sergeant Major. After advocating for the soldiers of 2nd Battalion, SGM Coldblud was promoted to Command Sergeant Major and assigned the Regimental Command Sergeant Major. In this capacity CSM Coldblud would act as the senior NCO adviser to the commander and also develop the processes of modern administration. As the CSM, CSM Coldblud was tasked with managing the S1 Branch as the S1 CSM and advising the S1 and commander on all matters of administration.
Real Life Service
Ronnie Bussey, often called Coldblud or Cold owing to his in-game name, enlisted in the United States Navy as a Seabee, also known as the naval construction force. It was in this capacity he deployed twice in Viet Nam. After completion of his active duty contact with the US Navy, he transferred to the US Army National Guard in 1971. Originally transferring as a 19K Armor Crewman, he commissioned and eventually was promoted to Captain. Ronnie Bussey held a wide range of tactical and staff duties including Company Commander, Battalion Reconnaissance Officer, Personnel Officer (S1), Intelligence Officer (S2), and Logistics Officer (S4).
Passing
Tragically, CSM Coldblud passed away September 26th, 2012. He was 66 years old.
CSM Ronnie "Coldblud" Bussey Lifetime Achievement Medal
Soon after CSM Coldblud's passing, the Regimental Headquarters created an award to honor his service and achievements in the Regiment. CSM Coldblud was an expert and one of the original founders of the modern S1 Branch. However, the award is not reserved specifically for excellence in administration. Rather, the award is bestowed upon members who have made long term positive impacts of any kind on the regiment. Although there are no specific defined criteria for eligibility, some categories include: lengthy honorable service, leadership, and contribution towards major regimental projects or achievements.
Frequency of Awarding
Since the establishment of the award in 2012, the honor is awarded once per year.
Eligibility
The CSM Coldblud award is only for Non-Commissioned Officers, of any grade.
Decision for the Award
There are no specific criteria for who is eligible for the award. Yearly, a board of all regimental staff, with representations from the Battalion and Department staff decide and vote on who will receive the award.
