FORT IRWIN, Calif. — Installation leadership, including Brig. Gen. Brandon Anderson, commanding general of the National Training Center (NTC), and Command Sgt. Maj. Mikeal McInroy, NTC’s Senior Enlisted Advisor, recognized volunteers for strengthening community programs and Soldier readiness during the 2026 Fort Irwin Annual Volunteer Award Ceremony May 19.
From mentoring youth and supporting military Families to organizing community events and wellness programs, volunteers across the installation contributed more than 19,000 hours of service in 2025, valuing more than $811,000 in community support.
“Our Army is very demanding, more so here at Fort Irwin,” said Anderson. “Whenever there is a need, our volunteers step into the breach. You are the force multipliers that make this installation feel like a true home.”
McInroy emphasized that volunteerism continues to play a vital role at Fort Irwin, where the installation’s remote location and demanding operational mission often create unique challenges for Soldiers and Families. Volunteers were recognized not only for supporting programs and events, but for helping strengthen resilience, stability and connection across the community.
“Military life comes with so much uncertainty, deployments, sudden moves and being away from extended Family,” said Maria Romero, an Army Community Service specialist who oversees the volunteer program. “Being able to step in and help provide a sense of stability, community or just a friendly face is incredibly rewarding.”
Among the top honorees, Alexandra Webb was named both the 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment and overall National Training Center Volunteer of the Year. Webb established the I “Immortal” Troop, Family Readiness Group, served as president of the Fort Irwin Middle School Parent Teacher Organization (PTO) and secured a grant providing hygiene kits for students.
Humbled to receive the recognition, “I love Fort Irwin; it’s become home for me and I just wanted to give back to the community that’s given so much to my Family,” said Webb. “I look forward to continuing supporting the community while embracing whatever opportunities the future may bring.”
The following volunteers were also recognized for their contributions to the community:
- Lauralee Redbrook - Family, Morale, Welfare and Recreation Volunteer of the Year; logged more than 1,000 volunteer hours with Army Community Service.
- Alice Wurzer - U.S. Army Garrison Volunteer of the Year; trained more than 1,000 incoming Soldiers in stress management and resilience techniques.
- Sonja Baca - Medical Department Activity Volunteer of the Year; supported numerous hospital and wellness events throughout the year.
- Sgt. Michael J. Zajicek Jr. - Active-Duty Volunteer of the Year; organized fellow volunteers to work with local food programs for monthly distribution.
- Jason Krawietz - 916th Support Brigade; volunteered countless hours officiating high school sports and mentoring youth athletes.
- Stefanie Fulcher - Religious Support Volunteer of the Year; led programs in support of the Sandy Basin community and Vacation Bible School.
- Jack Towle and Kaleb Black - Youth volunteers; recognized for leadership and mentorship through scouting and community programs.
- Fury Troop Soldier and Family Readiness Group - coordinated meals and toy donations during the holiday season.
- Fort Irwin Middle School PTO - Private Organization award for strengthening connections between parents, teachers, and students.
- The Phillips Family earned Volunteer Family of the Year honors for dedicating hundreds of combined hours supporting the Military Spouse Club, Tiefort CrossFit Club and local Eagle Scout projects.
“Your valuable service not only saves money but enhances the quality of life for Soldiers, Families and Civilians,” Anderson said. “Truly, you are all priceless.”
To learn more about volunteer opportunities at Fort Irwin, visit vmis.armyfamilywebportal.com.
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