FORT RUCKER, Ala. -- Some people serve others selflessly and without recognition.
One ardent supporter of Fort Rucker troops has been helping Soldiers and Families behind the scenes for decades.
Ingrid Strange, 70, a German-born retired military spouse, has directed fundraising efforts for the Association of the United States Army for as long as she can remember.
Through AUSA, she helps sponsor military Family scholarships and supports many of Fort Rucker's large events, including Freedom Fest and Fort Rucker Appreciation Day.
"Whenever it's a concern from a Soldier, we help," Strange said. "It's just what I do. I love to do it."
Her efforts extend beyond AUSA, however. For many years, Strange served on the Daleville Chamber of Commerce and school board.
"It's not just Soldiers I give to. I like to give back to the whole world," she said. "But, the Soldiers are the ones who fight and die for us. They give us the right to live the American dream."
Giving back to others has always been her nature and is emphasized in the Army culture, Strange said. She spent many years as a military spouse, and is married to retired Aviator CW4 Jerry Strange.
"Volunteering was just something you (did as a military spouse). You belonged and you were there for others," she said.
Those she works with say these attributes are reflected in Strange's personality and work.
"She's seen (Army life) firsthand. She knows there (are) things that the Soldiers need and she's very adamant about getting that," said Chris Harper, AUSA president. "She works so hard to help the Soldiers."
Strange helps raise $40,000-$50,000 annually for AUSA, said Bob Slagle, AUSA executive secretary.
"She is very forceful (in her work), but diplomatic. She doesn't take 'no' for an answer," he said.
Her love for the military and American Soldiers goes back to World War II.
"I was on the outskirts of my hometown in Buchen, Germany," she said. "I was watching the Soldiers and tanks as (they) moved closer and closer. A tank stopped close to where I was standing and an American Soldier climbed out, jumped down and handed me a piece of candy. It was a life-changing moment for me."
At age 7, she spent a month living with an American friend, whose father was an Army colonel. This was another step that led her in the direction of later immigrating to the U.S. and becoming an American citizen in 1976.
"I came home wearing saddleback shoes, jeans (and) a T-shirt and chewing gum," Strange said. "I always knew I wanted to be an American."
Owner of Ingrid's Jewelers and The Castle CafAfA in Daleville, Strange was also named 2010 Retail Jeweler of the Year by the 24 Karat Club of the Southeastern United States at the club's annual banquet in Atlanta Aug. 16.
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