Kirtland to recognize efforts, hard work of volunteers

  • Published
  • By Kendahl Johnson
  • 377th Air Base Wing Public Affairs
KIRTLAND AIR FORCE BASE, N.M. --  With the Air Force climate changing due to budget constraints, the reliance on volunteers has become even greater. Volunteers throughout Team Kirtland have stepped up to meet the challenge.

The base will recognize the efforts and hard work of about 120 Team Kirtland volunteers at an appreciation ceremony today from noon to 2 p.m. at the Mountain View Club.

"We had an amazing year," said Shawmarie Caudillo, last year's volunteer coordinator. "A lot of hours and a lot of hard work were put in by our volunteers. Without those efforts, our programs and services would not have achieved the same level of success."

Caudillo estimates about 30,000 volunteer hours have been provided by those being recognized alone. She said thousands of additional hours were given by numerous volunteers unable to attend the ceremony.

Each volunteer will be given a certificate of appreciation and a small gift as a token of gratitude.

One individual will receive the Volunteer Excellence Award, which recognizes exceptional long-term community support. To be eligible, an individual's service must be performed either in the local civilian community, or the military family community, and be of a sustained and direct nature. The volunteer service must be "significant in character, produce tangible results and reflect favorably on the Air Force."

Eight individuals were nominated for the award.

One of five nominees will receive the Military Outstanding Volunteer of the Year Award. This award is given to a service member who has provided outstanding support of community activities to include the military community. This is the first year Kirtland will be presenting this award.