ANSBACH, Germany (March 31, 2015) -- During an evening event Friday at the Orangerie in downtown Ansbach, U.S. Army Garrison Ansbach and the American Red Cross honored community members who volunteered during 2014.
Mitchell Jones, deputy garrison commander at USAG Ansbach, and Cassandra Wyatt, Red Cross station manager at USAG Ansbach, awarded certificates of appreciation following a meal of traditional German cuisine.
After the invocation by Chaplain (Maj.) Christopher Moellering, chaplain for the 12th Combat Aviation Brigade, Jones delivered remarks on the occasion. During his remarks, Jones told the volunteers they made the community "safer, healthier and better prepared."
"You play an important role in the day-to-day mission to the areas in which you volunteer," said Jones. "You are a vital workforce multiplier, and it is deeply appreciated. No task is too small and no effort too great when it comes to serving those who serve our nation."
After garrison volunteers received certificates for their service and efforts, Col. Christopher M. Benson, USAG Ansbach commander spoke to the attendees.
"They say that love makes the world go round, well, volunteering is the heart and soul of our community," said Benson. "I know how important volunteering is -- not just for personal satisfaction, but really for the community as well, so I thank you for that."
Quantifiably, volunteers with the American Red Cross at USAG Ansbach contributed nearly 14,000 hours of service, which saved the U.S. Army more than $313,000, according to Jones during his speech.
Stella Ogbu, one of the new volunteers being honored at the ceremony, said she volunteers "to help out whenever possible the troops, their Families."
"It's a good feeling to help others," said Ogbu, on volunteering.
Ogbu commended the American Red Cross program at Ansbach and Wyatt in particular.
"The program is amazing," said Ogbu. "Cassandra is amazing. She works so hard."
Ritza Zamora, a nurse's assistant who is currently enrolled in the American Red Cross's dental assistant program, said she likes to dedicate time to people who need help.
"I like to help others," she added. "That's why I'm in this field -- the medical field. It feels good when you help other people."
To see more photos of the event, select "Photo album: USAG Ansbach American Red Cross Recognition Ceremony" in the "Related Links" section on this page. To learn more about the American Red Cross at USAG Ansbach, select "USAG Ansbach American Red Cross" in the "Related Links" section on this page.
Related Links:
USAG Ansbach official blog site
USAG Ansbach official home page
USAG Ansbach American Red Cross
Franconian News: USAG Ansbach official news site
USAG Ansbach official Facebook page
USAG Ansbach official Flickr page
Photo album: USAG Ansbach American Red Cross Recognition Ceremony
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