ANDREWS AFB, Md. –
The Andrews Officers' Spouse's Club held its annual scholarship banquet at the Thrift Shop recently to recognize 10 outstanding students in the community.
"It's one of the best opportunities that we, in the officers' spouse's club, have for community outreach," said Dianna Ackerley, AOSC honorary president and wife of Col. Paul R. Ackerley, 316th Wing commander. "It also gives the AOSC an opportunity to reward these deserving students with funds for their education and to help further their careers. The scholarship banquet is really the culmination of a year of philanthropic giving by the AOSC, the Thrift Shop and its volunteers. It is our largest contribution in giving back to the dependents, spouses and the community."
Ten scholarships totaling $16,700 were awarded during the banquet. The scholarship categories included awards for graduating seniors, continuing education and spouses.
"All the funding for the AOSC scholarship program comes from the Thrift Shop," said Mrs. Ackerley. "Every month, the AOSC allots money from the Thrift Shop to be designated specifically for scholarships. Because of the incredible support from the community and especially our volunteers, we've met our goal every month."
Col. Eric Snadecki, 316th Wing vice commander, said, "I'd like to thank the AOSC for having this event and I'd like to congratulate the scholarship recipients. You know, education is one of those things you just can't overdo."
Colonel Snadecki added words of wisdom for the scholarship recipients, "I really do wish you the best as you pursue your educational pursuits. Keep this in mind: in my career and as I talk to the different folks in the military, I've learned you can do anything you want to as long as you have a positive attitude. That will pay off forever in your life."
This year's winners include Amy Bruan, Trisha Chaffee, Julie Frost, Carl Mueller, Sara Neville, Emily Terry, Kimberly Thorn, Hayley Thurman, Joshua Ward, and Monika Zawasky. Scholarship amounts ranged from $1,500 to $2,000.
"Everything we sell and do here at the Thrift Shop goes right back out into the Andrews community," said Teresa Nunn, AOSC vice president of philanthropy and wife of Lt. Col. Derrick D. Nunn, National Guard Bureau Congressional Activities Branch deputy chief. "This year alone we've given away $24,000 to community groups and organizations on base including the First Sergeant's Council, Andrews Top 3 Association, and various booster clubs on base -- and scholarships."
The Thrift Shop is located at 1676 Brookley Ave. and is open Monday, Wednesday and Thursday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and the first and third Saturday of the month from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
For more information, call the Thrift Shop at 301-735-3533 or visit www.andrewsosc.com.