First Sergeant Milton A. Bridges Jr. is a native of Modesto, California, He enlisted in the Army in 2002. He completed Basic Training at Fort Knox, Kentucky, and his Advanced Individual Training (AIT) at both Fort Lee, Virginia and Fort Sam Houston, Texas graduating as a 91M Nutrition Care specialist. He reclassified in 2008 and completed another AIT at Fort Sam Houston, Texas graduating as a 68R Veterinary Food Inspection Specialist.
First Sergeant Bridges’ assignments include: Heidelberg-MEDDAC, Germany as a 91M; his 68R assignments include the 218th Medical Detachment; PHCD-Fort Lewis, Washington; Iwakuni MCAS, Japan; Fort Riley, Kansas; Fort Meade, Marland; Public Health Command, East. He has served in the leadership position of Team Leader, Squad Leader, Platoon Sergeant, and Operations. He has deployed in support of Operation Enduring/Iraqi Freedom.
First Sergeant is a graduate of WLC, ALC, SLC (CL), and MLC. He has completed military courses to include Air Assault School, Battle Staff NCO Course, Commander/ First Sergeant Pre-Command Course, Digital Training Management System Course, Equal Opportunity Course, Unit Prevention Leader Course, Field Sanitation Team Course, Combat Life Savers Course, Combative Level I Course, Unit Postal Clerk Course. He holds an Associates Degree in General Studies and a Bachelor’s of Science in Management from University of Maryland.
SSG Bridges’ awards and decorations include: Meritorious Service Medal (1 OLC), Army Commendation Medal (4 OLC), Army Achievement Medal (8 OLC), Army Good Conduct Medal (7th award), National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal, NCO Professional Development Ribbon (4th award), Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon (4th award). He has earned the Expert Field Medical badge, Air Assault Badge, Wheeled Vehicle Driver’s Badge, and the Norwegian Foot March Badge.
First Sergeant Bridges and his wife April have two children, their daughter Taylor and son Abel.