JOINT BASE LEWIS MCCHORD, Wash. -- Private Sheldon Arce, a combat engineer with 23rd Brigade Engineer Battalion, was recognized in early October 2018, as 7th Infantry Division's top volunteer of the fourth quarter for fiscal year 2018 for his selfless service and dedication to the community.
Along with Arce, 15 Soldiers and civilians throughout the Bayonet Division were recognized for their support and contributions to the soldiers and families of the 7th Infantry Division.
"Their actions increased the awareness of the division in the local community," said Maj. Gen. Willard Burleson III, the 7ID commanding general. "I am proud of the work all our volunteers do for the community."
Arce was recognized for helping a woman who made glassware. She had worked with the material before, but now found the work difficult due to her physical limitations.
"I told her I wanted to help her out," said Arce. "I would help her blow glass or make jewelry for her to sell."
Eventually, he began helping her around the house with anything she was having issues with, said Arce. She was like a mother to him.
"I don't want people to feel they are alone or have to suffer because they are unable to do a simple task," Arce said. "I believe helping out gives people some hope."
His favorite part of being in the military is the people, said Arce. There is a bond among people within a unit. A Soldier needs others to accomplish the mission effectively. The people are what motivates him to go to work every day.
Arce continues to do volunteer work such has building tiny homes in Seattle, Washington. He plans to be a historian when he leaves the Army.
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