FORT STEWART, Ga. - Civilians win cash, a prize and received the title “Biggest Loser” during Winn Army Community Hospital’s awards program, June 23. Chief of Logistics Lt. Col. Thomas Hundley created the six-week competitive weight loss program with support from Hospital Commander Col. Paul Cordts.

“This program is the Commanders program,” Lt. Col. Hundley said. “He was the one concerned about the health of his command… leading from the top down.”

Colonel Cordts proudly read the inscription on each of the winners’ plaque during the program at the Patriot Auditorium.

“Maintaining a healthy lifestyle through mental, physical and spiritual fitness to achieve total health… get it tight, get it right,” Col. Cordts read.

Husband and wife team, Douglass and Loretta Burgess took home first place. Loretta, a hospital employee, lost 26 pounds that resulted in a 4.6 percent body fat reduction. Douglas, a bus driver with Liberty County school system, lost 30 pounds and shaved-off 5.4 percent body fat.

Runner-up in the male category was Rob Hutchinson who lost 19 pounds. Brenda Porch, who was not present for the ceremony, was the announced runner-up in the female category for losing 21 pounds.

According to Lt. Col. Hundley, the program has grown in popularity throughout the year. The first contest started back in January with 42 participants. This second class had more than 60 participants to include Family Members and children.

Contest winnings is not the only focus, but developing and maintaining a healthier lifestyle is the goal for each participant.

“I along with the commander donated money for this program, just to encourage people to get serious about their weight loss,” Lt. Col. Hundley said.

Susan Gregory, the first winner, lost a total of 50 pounds and quit smoking. According to Lt. Col. Hundley, she gave back the cash prize because she received the biggest reward a healthier lifestyle.

Team Burgess, current contest winners, kept each other motivated throughout the program.

“Working as team was a driving force… I have not seen him this small in years,” said Loretta.

Loretta now refers to Mr. Burgess as actor Denzel Washington in the making because of his new look.

“We have been doing things together for almost 42 years,” said Douglas. ...”the diet part was hard for me, but she pushed me.”

Customizing the program for participants along with motivation proved to be the perfect combination.

“I try and make the program fit everyone, it’s a beginner’s class,” Lt. Col. Hundley said. “Even though we do some high pace things, you only have to do what is in your comfort zone… I will give you alternate exercises. I consider this to be our fitness meeting, and I’m just the chair person of the meeting.”

Participants who join the program become part of a rewarding and life changing journey according to Lt. Col. Hundley. He encourages everyone to become more health conscious and incorporate movement each day.

“Stop trying to get the closest parking spot… park further so you can get some extra steps in each day and be consistent,” said Lt. Col. Hundley.

Fort Stewart community members are encouraged to workout Monday-Thursday with the Winn Army Community Hospital Family. To learn more information, call 912-435-6813.