The following letter was sent to me from our good friends at Blue Star Families. I would like to share an inspiring story of a Marine Mom who leads by example:
Rosie the Riveter would be proud...
As a military spouse of over 10 years and the Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) New River L.I.N.K.S. program Trainer, I have the honor of serving with some of the most amazing spouses in the Marine Corps. We are a small team averaging 20-30 volunteers dedicated to the L.I.N.K.S. mission of educating USMC and Navy families on how to "Thrive and Survive" the Marine Corps lifestyle. Each year, our team puts in over 2000 volunteer hours working with Marines and their parents, spouses, and children. Each year, we have over 5 Presidential Volunteer Service Award winners and volunteers that are nominated for other awards such as Hero's at Home. One of our volunteers, Lindy P. is one example of the excellence here at MCAS New River L.I.N.K.S. program.
Lindy is a 25 year old mother of 3, military spouse of 5 years, sister of a Marine, cancer survivor, and active volunteer since 2009. In the past 2 years as a L.I.N.K.S. volunteer and family readiness volunteer, she has received both the Gold and Silver Presidential Volunteer Service Awards totaling over 1000 volunteer service hours for 2009 and 2010. Of course, she is on target for another award for 2011. Additionally, she is an active volunteer with her church and also volunteers her photography skills to various programs in the local community. Lindy has done all of this while enduring multiple deployments with her husband and brother. When I asked her, "How do you do it?"... Lindy's answer is humble, "I enjoy giving back to the military community".
In November of 2011, we have Joined Forces and pledged 2500 service hours. I know this small but mighty team of exceptional women will supersede this pledge, and continue to touch the lives of military families each day.
Submitted by
Sarah Carr
Blue Star Families