Twitter
Facebook
KMC members gathered recently at Armstrong’s Club on Vogelweh Housing to honor and celebrate several special people — community volunteers.
The club’s beautiful winter garden, with tables neatly decorated with summer decor, was the setting for the July 25 event.
“The celebration is part of a unique and special opportunity to let volunteers know how much they are appreciated,” said Kristin James, U.S. Army Garrison Kaiserslautern’s volunteer corps coordinator.
Every few months, community leaders vote on submission packets for KMC volunteers who contribute above and beyond in their volunteer organizations.
Those nominated are invited to attend the celebration luncheon, James said.
Awardees are the guests of honor. They get lapel pins and certificates signed by the garrison’s command team, she said.
They supported the community in a variety of ways, James said.
Varrick McIntosh, from Landstuhl Youth Sports, planned and supervised Installation Management Command-Europe’s track and field practices and competition, an event for more than 450 youths. Mallorie Santos, from Company A, Landstuhl Regional Medical Center’s Family Readiness Group, volunteered more than 200 hours to plan and execute a spring carnival and also contributed to the leadership council.
At Daenner Kaserne’s Catholic congregation, Capt. Andrew Arrington holds Sunday school classes for elementary school children, provides logistical support to the chapel and develops teaching schedules. He also helped Scouts receive the religious merit badge.
At Landstuhl’s United Service Organizations Warrior Center, Spc. Mark Johnson volunteered 208 hours to support several events, including the Memorial Day barbecue, plus dinner and movie nights. Johnson is also known for his homemade chili pie — a huge hit with wounded warriors. At Landstuhl’s fitness center, 1st Sgt. Victor Laragione from Company B, LRMC, volunteered 125 hours as a CrossFit trainer, helping service members increase their fitness level.
The FRG at LRMC earned the small group award. Comprised of members from the Army, Air Force and Navy, the group hosted a spring festival for more than 700 people, with 117 volunteers helping out.
“Each of these individuals and the small group of dedicated volunteers made a huge impact to those they serviced and each other,” James said. “There is nothing quite so American and quite so fulfilling as providing the community with help where needed.”
