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CPT Stephen Balaze is a native of Canton, ¾ÅÒ»Â鶹ÖÆƬ³§. He began his military career commissioning as a Quartermaster Officer from ¾ÅÒ»Â鶹ÖÆƬ³§ State University in 2015 with a bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management. Stephen attended the Quartermaster Basic Officer’s Course at Fort Lee, VA and graduated on the commandant’s list in October 2015.

CPT Balaze’s first assignment was at Fort Drum as the fuel and water platoon leader for Avalanche Company, 10th Brigade Support Battalion, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division (LI). After completing his time as a platoon leader, Stephen then assumed the position of Executive Officer for Avalanche Company. In 2017, Stephen deployed to Afghanistan as the Executive Officer for Hawk Forward Support Company, 1st Battalion, 87th Infantry Regiment. He returned from Afghanistan in 2018 where he completed his time at Fort Drum as the Maintenance Control Officer for Hawk Company.

In 2019 CPT Balaze left Fort Drum to attend the Logistics Captain’s Career Course at Fort Lee, VA. He graduated in July of 2019 as the distinguished honor graduate.

CPT Balaze joined the 1st Armored Division Combat Aviation Brigade in August 2019 and initially served as the assistant brigade S4. In April 2020 CPT Balaze assumed command of Echo Troop, 3-6 Air Cavalry Squadron where he commanded the Outlaw Forward Support Troop until June 2021. CPT Balaze was selected for a second company command, and served as the Headquarters and Headquarters Company Commander for the 1st Armored Division Combat Aviation Brigade, the Guardians, from July 2021 to June 2022.

CPT Balaze is currently an Assistant Professor of Military Science at Western ¾ÅÒ»Â鶹ÖÆƬ³§ University.

CPT Balaze’s awards and decorations include the Meritorious Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal (2 OLC), Afghanistan Campaign Ribbon, NATO Medal, and the Gold German Armed Forces Badge for Military Proficiency.