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Volunteers recognized for selfless efforts

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Tabatha Zarrella
  • 20th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
SHAW AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. --  On April 22, the 20th Fighter Wing hosted a Volunteer Excellence Recognition Breakfast for Team Shaw volunteers at the Carolina Skies Club and Conference Center here.

This special recognition event was held as part of April's National Volunteer Appreciation Month.

More than 150 military, civilian, retiree and family members were recognized for going above and beyond in volunteer service, and selflessly giving their time, special skills and talents to base and community efforts.
 
"On behalf of Col. Hall, the 20th Fighter Wing commander, I want to thank you all for being here this morning and for celebrating volunteerism as part of National Volunteer Appreciation Month," said Col. Lance Kildron, 20th FW vice commander. "I want to (also) say a special congratulations to Mr. Larry Huff. Larry, thanks for doing what you do in support of the Red Cross and Shaw AFB. Your fingerprints are seen all over the base and Sumter community; your selection to receive the Shaw AFB Volunteer Excellence Award is spot on."

"Volunteerism makes our community strong," continued the vice commander. "Each volunteer recognized today went above and beyond giving unselfishly of his or her time, special skills and talents."

Volunteers were recognized for their efforts by receiving a free breakfast and a certificate of recognition, which was presented by the 20th FW vice commander Col. Lance Kildron, explained Lt. Col. Robert Snodgrass, 20th Mission Support Group deputy commander.

The recognition breakfast also honored Larry Huff, 20th Medical Support Squadron American Red Cross station chairman, as this year's Shaw Air Force Base Volunteer Excellence Award winner.

"Mr. Huff was recognized for his dedicated service to the Red Cross and Shaw Air Force Base," said Snodgrass.

"This was my way of giving back from what I've received over the years," expressed Huff. "I want to help people."

Huff's favorite volunteer opportunity was the gift wrapping. He received a chance to see people who he hasn't seen in about 20 years, he said. 

Volunteers just do what they do for the love of service, explained Snodgrass.

"Shaw AFB has more than 600 registered volunteers serving a wide range of hours each year in support of on-base, local and national organizations," Snodgrass said.  "According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, volunteers typically serve 32 to 90 hours a year giving back to the community."

"In today's financially constrained environment, volunteers are vital to the successful mission accomplishment of many organizations," he said. "Our goal in hosting the Volunteer Recognition Breakfast was to put the spotlight on our volunteers to recognize what they do and to simply say thank you."