DUPONT, Wash. -- Members of Regional Health Command-Pacific recently volunteered their own time to clean up a section of road July 28 in the city of Dupont as part of the region's Adopt-a-Road partnership with Pierce County.
The region adopted a two-mile long portion of Dupont-Steilacoom Road, just outside the gates of Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Washington, in 2016. About one year into a two-year agreement, the region continues to clean the road on a quarterly -- and sometimes more frequent -- basis.
"It increases awareness of the organization; But, more importantly, it gets our people out into the community that maybe wouldn't necessarily see this area," said Sgt. Justin Nachtweih, readiness noncommissioned officer, RHC-P. "It fosters those relationships between, not just RHC-P, but the Army, and the community. It shows them, yes, we are in your community, and we care also."
Nachtweih added that the road cleanup volunteer opportunity also helps build unit cohesion.
"It gives the opportunity to leave the four walls, leave the brick and mortar and do something different together," he said.
Lt. Col. Williams, chief, Patient Administration Division, RHC-P, participated in the latest cleanup and also said he believes it is a great initiative.
"We welcome both military and civilians to this opportunity to build esprit de corps. It's a great event. It helps our relationship with the community and with cohesiveness within the unit," he said.
About 100 volunteer organizations across Pierce County participate in the Adopt-a-Road Program and monitor about 600 miles of roadways throughout the county. According to its website, the Adopt-a-Road Program promotes civic pride and environmental responsibility, preserves habitats and improves motorist safety.
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