Fort Liberty, N.C. — The 82nd Airborne Division recognized six volunteers who have helped transform the division and the community they serve during a ceremony held at the division headquarters, Feb. 1, 2024.
The ceremony was commemorated by the 82nd Airborne Division Commander, Maj. Gen. Pat Work as he and the Division Command Sergeant Major, Command Sgt. Maj. Randolph Delapena awarded each recipient with a Certificate of Appreciation.
“I often describe our Division as a talent magnet,” said Work. “Volunteers who commit their precious days on Earth to improving others’ lives, to easing burdens, or to creating smiles.”
Kaylee Swank received the award for supporting families as the Soldier and Family Readiness Group Coordinator, providing critical information to the families of 3-73 CAV, 1st Brigade Combat Team, and increasing support to the unit during the holiday season.
“This is the family I’ve always wanted for my kids and myself," said Swank. I wanted to give that feeling to other families like we’ve been given.”
Staff Sgt. Oscar Alvarez, assigned to 2nd Brigade Combat Team, led a group of volunteer Paratroopers to clean up an overgrown Veterans African-American Cemetery.
“I thought it was a good opportunity to do [some] team building & morale boosting - it was a good day, and I think the Soldiers loved it,” stated Alvarez.
Amber Watkins received the volunteer award for volunteering in the local community at the Heaven’s Home Rescue, Carolina Animal Rescue and Adoption, and North Carolina Equine Rescue. Watkins stated, “my love for animals and the community make volunteering worth it.”
Cathy Glassman received the volunteer award as the SFRG Coordinator for the 122nd Aviation Support Battalion, 82nd Combat Aviation Brigade. She added valuable input to the battalion steering committee meetings. She took personal time out of her day to coordinate the donation of 450 “Deployment Teddy Bears” to children throughout the unit. Glassman stated, “it’s for the Soldiers. You [guys] give so much, so it’s nice to give back!”
Jennifer Jenkins received the volunteer award due to her contributions efforts to the 2-319th Field Artillery Battalion, 82nd Division Artillery Brigade by decorating the battalion morale event “Fort Liberty Trunk-or-Treat” and raising over $7,500 that directly supports the Black Falcons Paratroopers. Jenkins said, “my entire family is military. I just felt like it was my turn to give back.”
Pfc. Angel Cruz, 407th Brigade Support Battalion, 82nd Sustainment Brigade, received the volunteer award in part of his contributions as the Better Opportunity Single Soldiers’ Program Coordinator.
“I’m thankful that my leadership was able to recognize that junior leadership has an opportunity to influence and lead others,” Cruz exclaimed.
He also volunteers in the community as a youth church leader and at the Cumberland County Animal Services.
Work thanked the volunteers, "...we commend you for what you do and encourage you to keep doing it."
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