FORT DRUM (AP) -- A combat veteran who has fought in Central America, Africa, Iraq and Afghanistan is the new highest-ranking enlisted soldier at Fort Drum.

The Army post in northern New York says a ceremony is being held Thursday afternoon to welcome Rick Merritt as the 10th Mountain Division's new command sergeant major.

The 28-year Army veteran was a 23-year-old paramedic-firefighter when he joined the military in 1984.

He has served with the storied 75th Ranger Regiment as its command sergeant major.

Merritt's tours of duty with the regiment include serving nearly five years in combat in Panama, Somalia, Iraq and Afghanistan.

His numerous medals and awards include the Bronze Star and the Combat Infantryman's Badge.

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