MARINE CORPS AIR STATION CHERRY POINT, N.C. -- Cherry Point commander Col. Philip J. Zimmerman recognized more than 40 units and organizations who volunteered their time and talents in 2012 during an awards ceremony at Miller’s Landing April 24.
Kim Johnston, Marine Corps Family Team Building director, said the awards validate efforts the volunteers put forth last year, and the ceremony was a way to let them know that from the top down their efforts were noticed and appreciated.
“It’s important to highlight our volunteers to show them how much we appreciate what they have done,” said Johnston. “I believe this helps them realize the difference they make.”
Taisha Brunner was recognized for volunteering for Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron 14, MCFTB, Lifestyles, Insights, Networking, Knowledge and Skills, Marine Attack Squadron 223 and other local organizations.
“Myself and many of the volunteers here didn’t do any of this to be recognized,” she said “We just enjoy helping people.”
Zimmerman said that kind of selflessness cannot be allowed to go unnoticed.
“Volunteers are normally unseen so it’s important to recognize what they do,” said Zimmerman. “Their indispensable contribution to someone else’s life needs to be recognized regardless of whether they seek it or not.”
Standing onstage addressing the sea of awardees, Zimmerman said one unit in particular stood out – the Center for Naval Aviation Technical Training Marine Unit Cherry Point.
More than 600 CNATT Marines collectively volunteered more than 6,000 hours to projects on the air station and throughout the local area.
All Marine Message 009/13 designated April 21-27 as national volunteer week. Marine Corps volunteers embody the theme of national volunteer week “celebrating people in action.”
The message thanks Marines, families and civilian volunteers for sharing their skills, time and commitment with their communities.