We knew it all along, but it’s nice to note the U.S. Army Reserve Command also recognizes that the Vicksburg-based 412th Engineer Command is as good as they get.

Maj. Gen. Alan Bell, deputy commanding general for the Reserve command, came to town to present the Army Superior Unit Award to the 412th last week. Locals have observed through the years that the 412th is a group of professionals and has achieved excellence as its baseline through a long period of enlisting and retaining top officers and staff.

And, unlike the regular military, the members of the 412th also are our neighbors, our ball coaches, Sunday school teachers and skilled workers for public and private employers.

For the 412th, the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan have been anything but topics for casual political discussions. Members of the unit have served multiple deployments to both destinations. One day they might be home with their families. The next they might be in a town half-way around the world, the name of which no one here would know.

Many Vicksburg and Vicksburg-area civilians, members of the armed services and members of National Guard and Reserve units have served their nation in many capacities since the horrors of Sept. 11, 2001. All have done well, but the proficiency and professionalism of the 412th stands out.

The Superior Unit Award is based on readiness, which, of course, is essential. “The 412th Engineer Command’s exceptional performance of duty is in keeping with the finest traditions of military service and reflects great credit upon the unit and the United States Army,” said Capt. Earnest Wyatt, reading from the award certificate.

Everyone should be proud that the 412th calls Vicksburg home.