From left are, VFW member Pam Dwight, LaTranese Sapp-recipient of the Voice of Democracy award and VFW Commander Byron Scogins. Not pictured: Vashina Clay, Patriots Pen award, and Annette B. Cobb, National Citizenship Education Teacher award. Veteran of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post #2776 conducted their annual Community Service awards at the Jenkins County Senior Citizens Center Wednesday, Feb. 24. The program is designed to recognize those residents who have made a difference as a result of their initiative, efforts and energy. Awards were presented by VFW All-American Commander Byron A. Scogins.

Vashnia Clay was the local winner of the VFW sponsored “Patriots Pen” program. The topic this year was, “When is the right time to honor our military heroes?”

LaTranese Sapp was the winner in the “Voice of Democracy” program. Her topic was, “Does America still have heroes?”

Kenny Williams, left, is presented the Law Enforcement award for the county by Commander Scogins. Annette B. Cobb was the winner of the National Citizenship Education Teacher award. She was nominated by Pam Dwight.

David Barron received the VFW Fireman of the Year award. Criteria for this award includes recognition by colleagues or those served; consistent excellence in the performance of duties; and consistent dedication to respon- sibilities over a period of years with continuous growth and skill.

James Alvin Burke was the recipient of the FVW EMT of the Year award. This award is presented to an individual who actively provides emergency medical treatment, rescue service and civil disaster assistance to local citizens.

Law Enforcement awards were presented to Sgt. Thomas “Kenny” Williams, Jenkins County Sheriff’s Department; and Cpl. Brad Adams, Millen Police Department. Criteria for this award include any individual who serves in a municipal or county tasked with enforcement of the laws pertaining to their areas of responsibility. Certificates of Achievement presented read, “In grateful recognition of unyielding adherence to the highest ideals of law enforcement in maintaining, preserving and protecting the lawful rights of all citizens.”

Brad Adams, left, accepts the Law Enforcement award for the city from Commander Scogins Cpl. Adams was also the District winner in the City Law Enforcement category and is being evaluated at the State level.

At the conclusion of the program, Commander Scogins was presented a check for $500 from the local American Legion Commander Lamar Faircloth. The money will be used toward the costs of the Jenkins County War Memorial Monument.

Refreshments were provided.
From left, Alvin Burke accepts the EMT of the Year award from Commander Scogins.
From left, Commander Scogins presents Fireman of the Year award to David Barron.