American Legion Honors Armed Forces Servicemembers for Volunteer Efforts

Representatives from the five armed services and the National Guard were honored Aug. 22 by the nation’s largest veterans organization.

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The American Legion presented the Spirit of Service award to U.S. Army Spc. Virginia A. Constable, U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Kalynn L. Mitchell, U.S. Navy Petty Officer 2nd Class Robin N. Stephens, U.S. Marine Cpl. Justin C. Ahasteen, Missouri National Guardsman Senior Airman Allanesha J. Smith, and U.S. Coast Guard Petty Officer 2nd Class Jordan N. Suchon, (not pictured - unable to attend) during the organization’s 99^th National Convention in Reno, Nev.

The award was presented for each of the recipient’s volunteer service in their local communities.

This is the 17th annual presentation of the award, which includes a shaped, etched glass mounted on a marble base, as well as a one-year membership in The American Legion.

National Commander Charles E. Schmidt presented the awards to the servicemembers, along with Brig. Gen. Kevin Vereen, Deputy Commanding General, Operations, U.S. Army Recruiting Command and Donald E. Ballard, Medal of Honor recipient.

“As an organization of wartime veterans we understand and embrace the concept of service to community, state and nation,” Schmidt said. “These outstanding military members represent the very finest qualities of America – a relentless commitment to serve their country and their fellow Americans.”

To receive this recognition the individual must be an outstanding military professional – and be actively involved in volunteer projects in their community during off-duty hours.

“Volunteerism is at the heart of what The American Legion does … and it is this dedication to community volunteerism that keeps the nation’s largest veterans organization growing,” Schmidt said.

“We know about service to others. We also know that those in uniform today – America’s newest veterans in this war against terrorism – often go out of their way to make a difference for others in the communities in which they live. Today, The American Legion honors these outstanding Americans who reflect the great spirit of service to others that the founders of our organization considered essential.”

Schmidt said that these military men and women being honored fit the bill and are representative of thousands of their peers who make up the finest fighting force in the world.

“Each of them has demonstrated a strong commitment to serving others, a spirit of service that deserves the highest recognition The American Legion can provide,” he said.

Each of the members was selected by their individual services. The American Legion provided for accommodations, meals and travel during their time in Reno. They participated in the ceremonial opening of the convention and attended the National Commander’s Banquet as distinguished guests and as the newest members of The American Legion who interacted with their fellow veterans of several generations.

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