Rescue Reservists nominated for community service award

by 2nd Lt. Leslie Forshaw
920th Rescue Wing Public Affairs

11/29/2012 - PATRICK AIR FORCE BASE, Fla.  -- Two Air Force Reservists from the 920th Rescue Wing were nominated for a Military Affairs Counsel Community Service Award Wednesday.

Tech. Sgt. Charity Orris, 308th Rescue Squadron combat arms trainer, and Staff Sgt. Anna-Marie Wyant, 920th RQW public affairs, were both nominated for their community service work.

"It's really great to see the community honor our military members for the work they do after hours," said Col. Jeffrey Macrander, 920 RQW commander.

Orris, who was unable to attend the banquet, was nominated for her work helping children with special needs through Equestrian Therapy several days a week. Among other community services, she also volunteers her time training horses and participants of Special Olympics.

Wyant was nominated for her work with Big Brothers Big Sisters. She has had a "little sister" for the last six years mentoring and watching her grow from a struggling student to a high school junior with a college scholarship. Also, every week Wyant cooks breakfast, delivers toiletries and takes donations for warm clothes to the homeless in Tampa, Fla., and commits her time to various other local charities.

"It's an honor to be nominated; I'm very humbled," said Wyant. "I hope to shed some light on local volunteer opportunities and encourage my fellow Airmen to get involved."

"I'm very proud of our Rescue Airmen," said Macrander. "These Airmen embody what we stand for here at the 920th RQW."