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                         April 4, 2003

Service supreme

West Point honors volunteers 

Story and photos by Kathy Eastwood
Staff Writer

West Point volunteers were recognized for exceptional service March 11. Top row, left to right: Chris O'Brien, Jill Willis, Doris Farrell. Bottom row, left to  right: Jennifer Koprowski, Col. Jose Picart, Lt. Col. Jim Dalton. Volunteer  Lt. Col. Mike Mahan not pictured.

The West Point Women’s Club and community members gathered to recognize seven volunteers for "exceptionally dedicated service" to the community at the West Point Club March 11.

U.S. Military Academy Superintendent Lt. Gen. William J. Lennox Jr. and West Point Garrison Commander Col. Ann Horner presented the awards.

"Thanks a lot for what you’re doing. It really does make a difference for the people of this community," Lennox said.

Horner referred specifically to the people who volunteer for the sports programs.

"These are interesting times for sports programs," she said. "You help shape young lives by teaching young people skills that will last a lifetime.

"A whole lot of work gets done around post due to volunteers, so when you see them, give them a hug," she added.

According to Joy Swanson, installation volunteer coordinator, the luncheons are to recognize outstanding volunteers.

"[We honor] those who go ‘above and beyond’ and educate the community about how alive the spirit of volunteering is at West Point," she said. "Many of these folks have been volunteering for years and we want to make sure they know how much there are appreciated."

The honorees were:
Lt. Col. Jim Dalton, assistant professor in the Department of Geography & Environmental Engineering; Col. Jose Picart, professor in the Behavioral Sciences and Leadership, for their service to West Point Youth Services.

Jennifer Koprowski for her service to The Caring Network and Army Track.

Retired Lt. Col. Mike Mahan, vice president of Development at the U.S. Military Academy Association of Graduates, for his service to Army Rugby.

Doris Farrell and Jill Willis for their service to the Girl Scouts of West Point.

Chris O’Brien, for her service to the West Point Parent Teacher Organization.