Community members took part in a two-day Army Community Service birthday celebration Friday and Saturday on Fort Leonard Wood.
Saturday was the 50th birthday of ACS, and Fort Leonard Wood was just one of several Army organizations celebrating the half-century milestone.
ACS was founded in 1965 as an organization designed to support Soldiers and their Families as they enter, take-part and transition from military life.
"We are celebrating 50 years of an organization that was created to provide assistance to Soldiers and Families," said Col. Andy Herbst, U.S. Army Garrison Fort Leonard Wood commander during a cake cutting ceremony at the ACS Center, Building 486, Friday.
"One word sums up this team in front of me -- it's pride," Herbst said. "ACS really personifies the team-of-teams concept that the (commanding general) talks about almost at every engagement he has."
Herbst recounted some of the organization's history and praised the people who have built the ACS foundation.
"People like you -- who so selflessly provide assistance to those less fortunate; through your face-to-face interactions, educational classes and mentorship -- you teach folks how to be self-sufficient, raise Families and thrive," he said.
"You raise Families up, many without your help would see no way out. Thanks to you for everything you do every day. Your work is valuable and deeply appreciated. Thanks for what you do."
Dan Furlano, ACS director, honored several ACS alumni who helped build the program at Fort Leonard Wood over the years. Those ACS alumni included:
Verna McGee, Judy Lowe, Bill Brownfield, Casey Morris, Kent Moss, Beverly Richards, Marolyn Baxter, Judy Harmon and Lynn Morgan.
"As we celebrate the 50th anniversary of Army Community Service, we want you to know that ACS continues to grow and evolve to meet the changing needs of the global Army Family. You will always remain an integral part of ACS and the Army Family in its past, present and future," Furlano said.
Following the ceremony, community members had the opportunity to gather more information about ACS programs and have refreshments. On Saturday, the Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation Rec Plex provided free passes for go-karts and mini golf and the USO Mobile Canteen provided free food.
Some of the services ACS provides Army Families include: Family, financial, victim advocacy and employment readiness services. For more information about ACS, call 573.596.0131, ext. 60212 or visit www.fortleonardwoodmwr.com/acs.php.
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