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Sheppard volunteers win presidential award

  • Published
  • By John Ingle
  • 82nd Training Wing Public Affars
SHEPPARD AIR FORCE BASE, Texas --  The U.S. armed forces consist of people often awarded with accolades for their accomplishments. Two Team Sheppard members who don't wear a uniform received the President's Volunteer Service Award for their efforts July 1.

Bernice Wallig and Michelle Roan were presented certificates from President Barack Obama for their work at Sheppard's Thrift Store, an entity providing material goods at a low cost for Airmen as well as providing scholarships to area youths and spouses working toward a higher education.

Mrs. Roan, the Sheppard Thrift Store manager, said they strive to use their profits to benefit those tied to Sheppard. When that can't be done, the proceeds go elsewhere. If the money doesn't go toward Sheppard families, they make sure it's put to good use.

"Everything we do here ensures what we can't use goes to another charitable organization," Mrs. Roan said.

2nd Air Force Commander Maj. Gen. Alfred Flowers' wife, Ida recently acknowledged Mrs. Roan for her selflessness as a volunteer.

"I'm even more surprised because a lot of bases pay their manager," Mrs. Roan said. "It's been a tradition here that (the manager doesn't) get paid."

Mrs. Wallig, stalwart fixture as a volunteer at Sheppard since her retirement in 1978, was clearly surprised and somewhat unnerved by the presentation. She said she began volunteering, with the exception of one year off, to continue her service to the military.

Barbara Mannon, wife of 82nd Training Wing Commander Brig. Gen. O.G. Mannon called Mrs. Roan the morning of the presentation to say she had to give her something. Little did Mrs. Wallig know that it would be something from the president of the United States.

"I don't do this for the awards," said Mrs. Wallig, the winner of several Air Force-level volunteer awards. "This gets me moving."

Mrs. Roan said hundreds of college students benefited from Mrs. Wallig's service.

Regardless of who received a scholarship or who benefited from the services of these two women, one thing remains sure: the President of the United States appreciates their efforts to aid in the welfare of military members and their families.