Fort Carson volunteers save installation more than $2.7 million

By Andrea Sutherland (Fort Carson)May 16, 2013

FORT CARSON, Colo. -- Joey Bautista doesn't know how he'd function without the men, women and youth in his corps of volunteers.

"It's amazing what they do," he said. "Volunteers are strengthening this nation. Today is their day."

More than 350 members of the Fort Carson community attended the annual volunteer awards ceremony May 8 at the Elkhorn Conference Center. Hundreds of volunteers were recognized for their efforts from March 2012 through the first quarter of 2013.

"I know you don't need awards or accolades," said Maj. Gen. Paul J. LaCamera, commanding general, 4th Infantry Division and Fort Carson. "You give up your most valuable possession: time. Volunteers are the lifeblood of this community. I am humbled as I look across this room."

LaCamera said more than 4,000 volunĀ­teers logged 148,000 hours, resulting in $2.7 million in savings for the post.

"Your dedication and personal sacrifice continues making Fort Carson the best hometown in the Army," he said.

In addition to Volunteer of the Year and Youth Volunteer of the Year, the Columbine Award of Excellence was awarded to 135 volunteers logging at least 250 hours of service to two or more organizations. Twenty-nine volunteers giving at least 500 hours were recognized with the Exemplary Volunteer Service Award.

Two Soldiers, Sgt. Chad Bone and Staff Sgt. Steven Brandon, both of the 759th Military Police Battalion, received the Military Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal. Each Soldier took time off duty to work in the community, Bone as a Boy Scout leader and Brandon as a youth soccer coach.

"We are extremely proud," said Lt. Col. Christopher Heberer, commander, 759th MP Bn. "Their outstanding dedication and service to their communities demonstrates the highest amount of personal character and selfless service. They are helping our children grow to become future leaders of our great nation. Both of our Soldiers are great examples of what being a military police officer is all about -- a total commitment to always improve and safeguard our Joint Task Force Carson and our surrounding local communities."

Bautista thanked each volunteer for his service and dedication.

"I'm very proud of the volunteers," he said. "They are all amazing."