The Southern California Army Advisory Council (SCAAC) has formally been in business one year - and they have a lot to show for their brief tenure.

Approximately 30 civic, nonprofit, business and education leaders from Orange and Riverside Counties meet quarterly to discuss ways to educate the public about Army service options while creating an environment favorable to and supportive of Army service. They have successfully spearheaded community events to support Army service while volunteering their time, resources and skill to make Army related events first-rate community activities.

"This has been a mutually beneficial partnership," said Lt. Col. Thomas Hansbarger, Southern California Recruiting Battalion Commander. "The goal is to inform as many people as possible about the opportunity the Army provides. This advisory council has done just that."

The SCAAC has not shied away from the tough issues the Army faces, especially when dealing with school access.

Advisory council member Dan MacLeith, for instance, met with the Garden Grove Superintendent when he noticed the lack of Army presence within his community's local high schools.

"My son attended school within the Garden Grove Unified School District. I felt I could do something to introduce students to what the Army offers," MacLeith said. "I went to the superintendent along with some fellow advisory members and service personnel to pitch Army benefits from a Soldier and a civilian perspective."

Doing so opened doors for Capt. Daniel Kim, Fullerton Recruiting Company Commander. Now Santiago and Pacifica High Schools maintain an open door policy for recruiters, and in the near term are willing to partner community events with the Army.

The advisory council's vast knowledge and experience has helped the Southern California Recruiting Battalion build innovative bridges and community partnerships benefiting our nation's youth. They have remained true to their inaugural charter, signed one year ago, to impact the community with a positive perception of the value of being a U.S. Army Soldier.

In recognition for their outstanding service, each member of the advisory council was presented a certificate of appreciation, a goody bag, and a piece of cake commemorating their official first birthday.