DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY
HHC, 1-126 AVIATION BATTALION
[ARMORY / INSTALLATION ADDRESS]
23 February 2026
MEMORANDUM FOR State Officer Candidate School Selection Board
SUBJECT: Letter of Recommendation for SPC Michael Hinojosa
1. I highly recommend SPC Michael Hinojosa for selection to State Officer Candidate School without reservation. I served as the Battalion S2 OIC as well as the HHC Commander for the 1-126 AVN BN, where I directly supervised SPC Hinojosa for approximately 18 months as an all-source intelligence analyst. During this period, I observed his exceptional leadership ability, maturity, and clear potential to serve as a commissioned officer in the United States Army.
2. SPC Hinojosa performed well beyond the expectations of his position, rank, and experience level. He joined our S2 section as a 31B with no prior MI experience. This did not hinder his ability to lead or his level of engagement, it increased his desire to learn and take advantage of opportunity. SPC Hinojosa never turned down a challenge and proactively volunteered for tasks that would accelerate his MI knowledge and leadership experience.
3. SPC Hinojosa stood out as the leader of his three peer analysts in the section. He helped his fellow soldiers prioritize simultaneous tasks with competing deadlines to ensure all mission requirements were met on time. This included the creation and execution of section PT plans, creation of IPB products, and the creation of classified briefings for BN leadership.
4. SPC Hinojosa further distinguished himself through exceptional intellect and adaptability. Within one month of assuming new functional responsibilities, he independently developed mission-ready intelligence products and delivered a classified country brief to the 1-126 AVN BN commander and BN staff members with minimal preparation time. His ability to rapidly master complex material and communicate clearly under pressure reflects the analytical rigor expected of future officers.
5. His presence and confidence in front of senior leadership consistently enabled informed decision-making. Whether briefing commanders and staff members or leading teams through competing priorities, SPC Hinojosa displayed calm judgment, clarity of thought, and command presence indicative of a successful platoon leader and company-grade officer.
6. SPC Michael Hinojosa possesses the leadership potential, character, and professional competence the Army seeks in its commissioned officers. I am confident he will excel in State Officer Candidate School and continue to serve with distinction. I highly recommend him for selection.
Respectfully,
ZACHARY ELLIS
CPT, MI
HHC, 1-126 AVN BN
