TACOMA, Wash. – Mark C. Smith graduated from Officer Candidate School (OCS) Phase III training at North Fort Lewis, Tacoma, Wash., and was commissioned as a second lieutenant in the U.S. Army National Guard.

The two-week Phase III training is the final phase of a three-phased, 14-month training period. The national guard officer candidate received "basic soldiering" instruction in leadership, professional ethics, soldier team development, combined arms tactics, weapons defense, squad drill, intelligence, land navigation, maintenance, communications, staff and general military subjects, field training exercises, and physical training and conditioning.

Officer candidates are tested and evaluated in leadership skills and team work abilities required of a commissioned officer.

Students utilize acquired skills to function in "leader and follower" positions in squad and platoon-sized elements in a stressful and demanding field environment involving various tactical situations.

OCS students are selected and considered from colleges, active-duty enlisted ranks, and direct commissions.

Smith was formerly assigned to the 223rd Infantry Regiment, California Army National Guard, San Luis Obispo. He has served in the military for six years.

He is the son of Les F. and Lorry J. Smith of Venus Village, Clearlake Oaks.

The lieutenant graduated in 2001 from Lower Lake High School and received an associate degree in 2007 from Santa Rosa Junior College.

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