Fort Liberty, NC — The 82nd Airborne Division recently gathered at the Culinary Art Training Center, Oct. 29, 2024, to recognize six outstanding volunteers whose selfless contributions have significantly impacted the military community.
Maj. Gen. Pat Work and Command Sgt. Maj. Randolph Delapena, the command team for the 82nd Airborne Division, highlighted the dedication and commitment of those who go above and beyond to support fellow Paratroopers and their families.
Mrs. Courtney McDougall-Chu, representing 1st Brigade Combat Team, was recognized for her exceptional volunteerism within Bravo Company, 2nd Battalion, 504th Parachute Infantry Regiment.
Over the past quarter, she dedicated 38 hours as the Soldier and Family Readiness Group (SFRG) coordinator and has logged a total of 129 volunteer hours in the past 12 months. Most recently, McDougall-Chu contributed five hours to raising unit funds following a battalion airborne operation and unit ruck march on August 22, 2024.
Sgt. Timothy Bolan, from 2nd Brigade Combat Team, was honored for his commitment as a volunteer cheer and gymnastics coach. While balancing his responsibilities as a husband and airborne leader, he dedicated nearly 300 hours coaching over the past year. His patience and encouragement have made a tremendous impact on the athletes and staff of the All-Star Cheer Tumbly program.
Command Sgt. Maj. David Jarguin, with 3rd Brigade Combat Team, received recognition for his significant contributions beyond his duties as the command sergeant major of the 307th Airborne Engineer Battalion. He also volunteered over 60 hours as a catechism instructor at his church and regularly participates in community improvement projects. Additionally, he has dedicated more than 40 hours as a driver for the Cobalt Night Rider rideshare program, providing safe rides to Paratroopers in need.
Mrs. Rachelle Palmer, 82nd Combat Aviation Brigade’s awardee, plays a vital role in disseminating information between the 122nd Aviation Support Battalion command teams and the families during the CAB deployment in support of Operation Inherent Resolve. Palmer also uses her educational background to help Paratroopers develop individual education plans for their children, significantly enhancing the morale and quality of life for the Paratroopers in her spouse’s unit.
Maj. John Beatty, from the 82nd Division Artillery Brigade, was recognized for his service as a church volunteer and coach for his unit’s sports teams. Despite a rigorous schedule as the battalion executive officer of the 3rd Battalion, 319th Airborne Field Artillery Regiment, he has contributed 35 hours of service this quarter. His focus on helping the homeless through his church has led him to assemble and distribute care packages and provide access to hygiene products and shower trailers.
Spc. Sydney Kent, with the 82nd Airborne Division Sustainment Brigade, was honored for her involvement with the Holistic Health and Fitness program. She regularly shares her recovery journey from a major musculoskeletal injury, inspiring others and raising awareness for mental health initiatives. Over the past year, she has volunteered over 100 hours supporting suicide and mental health awareness events, collaborating with mental health programs to address challenges faced by Soldiers.
The unwavering dedication and hard work of these volunteers not only uplift the lives of Paratroopers and their families but also forge stronger connections within the military community.
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