On Friday evening, April 20, the St. Cloud Veterans Medical Center sponsored the annual volunteer recognition dinner and ceremony at Trobec’s Events Center in St. Joseph for hours volunteered between Jan. 1, 2006, and Dec. 31, 2006. Attending from the Kingston Johnson Kelly Auxiliary Post 483 American Legion Auxiliary were Dorothy Jensen, Ann Hamilton and Betty Mackereth. “Let the Bells Ring” – Why not be a volunteer? It’s not for money, it’s not for fame – It’s not for personal gain. It’s just for love of fellow man. It’s just to give a helping hand. Barry Bahl, medical center director, thanked all the volunteers for their time spent with the veterans – no matter what tasks they performed or assistance to the veterans. During the year, the volunteer hours totaled $1,679,569. What volunteers do: make a difference; volunteers are priceless. Dee Dee Buckley of Pequot Lakes, department president of the American Legion Auxiliary, was present at the ceremony. Hours volunteered awards were presented to volunteers – Jensen received her award. Volunteers from various organizations received their awards. The American Legion Auxiliary organization donated a total of 5,448 hours for the year 2006. After the ceremony, a delicious roast beef dinner was served to all present. An Impatience plant was presented to each volunteer and guest. The plants are raised at the V.A. Medical Center by the veterans, and are much appreciated by the volunteers. April is the Month of the Military Child: “How to help children connect with their deployed parents.”
