By Jeff Devine, Dale County Chronicle
FORT RUCKER—Hundreds of volunteers who dedicated their time and talents to Fort Rucker throughout 2025 were recognized during the installation’s annual Volunteer of tothe Year Recognition Ceremony on May 28.
Military leaders, family members, and community supporters gathered at The Landing to honor the individuals whose service helped strengthen programs and organizations across the installation.
According to Army officials, 619 volunteers contributed 36,664 hours of service during the year. Using the federal value assigned to volunteer labor, those hours represented an estimated savings and community benefit of more than $1.26 million.
Brig. Gen. Kenneth C. Cole, deputy commanding general of the U.S. Army Aviation Center of Excellence, praised volunteers for the vital role they play in supporting soldiers, families, and installation programs.
Volunteers assisted a wide range of organizations and activities across the installation, including Parker Elementary School, youth sports programs, family readiness groups, religious support services, the installation thrift shop, Better Opportunities for Single Soldiers programs, and numerous special events throughout the year.
Army officials said volunteer service helps provide valuable support to military families while reducing costs and expanding opportunities across the installation.
More than 50 volunteers who logged significant service hours were recognized during the ceremony before installation leaders announced the top volunteer award recipients for 2025.
Those receiving top honors included:
• Youth Volunteer of the Year, Samuel Keller
• Adult Volunteer of the Year, Kevin Jordan
• Active-Duty Volunteer of the Year, Staff Sgt. Cuevas
• Family Volunteers of the Year, the Layne Family
• Helping Hand Award recipient, 1st Lt. E.C. Presnell
• Lifetime Achievement Award recipient, Cassandra Layne
The ceremony highlighted the important role volunteers continue to play in the Fort Rucker community. Military spouses, service members, retirees, civilian employees, contractors, and youth volunteers collectively contributed thousands of hours to programs that support quality of life across the installation.
Installation leaders noted that volunteerism remains a cornerstone of the Fort Rucker community, providing services and support that benefit soldiers and their families while fostering a stronger sense of connection throughout the Wiregrass region.
During the event, officials presented a ceremonial check recognizing the volunteers’ combined contribution of more than $1.26 million in service value, underscoring the significant impact their efforts have on the installation and the military community it serves.
