Thanks a million!

By Cheryl Rodewig, The BayonetNovember 25, 2009

Thanks a million!
The post's Combined Federal Campaign drive hit $1million Monday. A large donation from the Soldiers of 2nd Battalion, 58th Infantry Regiment, helped Fort Benning reach its goal. The regional campaign, which began Sept. 2, continues through early Dec... (Photo Credit: U.S. Army) VIEW ORIGINAL

Fort Benning hit the $1 million mark for the Combined Federal Campaign Monday.

"We definitely have a hit a milestone. It is amazing," said Laura Walker, manager for the Columbus/Fort Benning Regional CFC.

The regional campaign kicked off Sept. 2 with a $1 million goal set by MG Michael Ferriter, post commanding general.

The goal became reality when SFC James Kuhl, CFC key person for 2nd Battalion, 58th Infantry Regiment, turned in his unit's donations: $38,000 that put Fort Benning over the top.

"It's outstanding," Kuhl said. "I think command support really made a difference."

Kuhl helped make 100 percent contact with cadre members and basic trainees in the battalion, letting them know about the opportunity to donate.

Kuhl said he appreciates the opportunity to donate through CFC as a way to reach multiple organizations - around 3,000 are listed in the CFC booklet - that support his interests, such as helping animals and children in need.

"But I can't have 3,000 people come to my door and solicit a donation," he said. "I've donated to CFC for probably the past 20 years because it's an easy way to do the right thing for people who need help."

Walker said she appreciates the help of the key persons and the community's willingness to give.

"I am extremely grateful, as are the organizations that are going to benefit from their donations," she said.

"This is such a tough time economically and some of the funding is drying up for many of these agencies, so the generosity of the CFC donor is more important than ever."

The units will turn in their donations by early December, but Walker said people who haven't given still can. The campaign's total dollar amount will be finalized Dec. 15.