Spec. Cassandra Rousayne, a medical laboratory technician at the U.S. Army Medical Research Institute of Chemical Defense (USAMRICD) at Aberdeen Proving Ground, Maryland, is the Army recipient of the 2014 American Legion Spirit of Service Award. The award is presented to a member of each service to recognize that individual's volunteer service to the community during and after duty hours.
USAMRICD Commander Col. Bruce Schoneboom congratulated Rousayne, saying "This prestigious award is well deserved as SPC Rousayne--as well as her family--is a role model for all of us when it comes to community volunteerism!"
Rousayne has been an active volunteer with service programs on the installation as well as within her local community.
"Volunteering is a way of life for me, not something I choose to do consciously," said Rousayne. "I believe in giving back and supporting others because I know how much the smallest acts can make a difference to someone."
On the installation, she has served as the local Armed Services Blood Program event co-coordinator, organizing three donation events. Additionally, she was the USAMRICD coordinator for the annual Edgewood Area Winter Apparel Drive, which collects winter coats, hats, and gloves for the charity the Sharing Table. Also, Rousayne voluntarily organized the USAMRICD's Combined Federal Campaign and served as the coordinator for the 2013 area-wide campaign kick-off event.
Within her community, Rousayne volunteers at her church by ushering, manning the nursery, and helping out at church-sponsored events. Additionally, she has served as a coach, an assistant coach and a team manager for the t-ball teams, baseball teams, and the soccer teams on which her daughters play.
Committed to instilling in her daughters the same sense of volunteer service that she has, Rousayne and her family have performed in church-sponsored Easter and Christmas plays for the residents of Harford Senior House; gathered toys and gifts and prepared packages, during the Christmas holidays, for children in need overseas and in a local hospital; and planned and executed the delivery of baked goods to local first responders who were working on the Christmas holiday.
The legion will recognize Rousayne at their 96th National Convention of The American Legion in Charlotte, North Carolina, August 24-27.
Related Links:
U.S. Army Medical Research Institute of Chemical Defense Website
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