Offutt says thank you to volunteers

  • Published
  • By Monica Stouffer
  • Airman and Family Readiness Center
OFFUTT AIR FORCE BASE, Neb. --  Team Offutt celebrated the outstanding contributions by its volunteers and commemorated National Volunteer Week at its annual volunteer recognition event Thursday at the Patriot Club.

During the ceremony, Mrs. Angellina Ribordy was named as this year's Volunteer Excellence Award winner. Mrs. Ribordy is the wife of Lt. Col. Lance Ribordy of US Strategic Command.

Mrs. Ribordy's community involvement spans 18 years and includes serving as a Girl Scout leader, trainer and instructor of trainers in Montana, Nebraska and Europe. 

Throughout her extensive career within the Girl Scout community she has served as a mentor and leader for young girls as well as other Girl Scout leaders, focusing on life lessons in self esteem, leadership, citizenship, and community service. She has continuously lived out her favorite phrase, "Grow where you are planted," while assisting others in achieving their highest potential. She has also served as a Sunday School teacher as well as a Children's Church Director, ministering to more than 100 children in Montana and the Netherlands. Mrs. Ribordy's efforts have positively affected more than 1,000 lives. 

The VEA is awarded annually by the 55th Wing commander on behalf of the Air Force chief of staff. The award recognizes the long-term commitment made by military family members, retirees, and DoD civilian employees who have contributed to their communities over the course of their lives. To receive this award an individual's service must be significant in character, produce tangible results and reflect favorably on the Air Force. Because of its significance, an individual may only be awarded one VEA in a lifetime. 

As a show of appreciation for Mrs. Ribordi and the base's other outstanding volunteers, a ceremony was held to commend the efforts of the almost 100 volunteers from various on-base and off-base agencies who attended. Guest speaker Col. Jim Jones, 55th Wing commander, shared with attendees his personal appreciation for their efforts and sacrifices. Attendees were also treated to a performance by the United States Air Force Heartland of America Band New Horizons clarinet quintet. 

This year's theme of National Volunteer Week, as set by the Points of Light Foundation, was "Inspire by Example," reflecting the power volunteers have to inspire the people they serve while inspiring others to serve.