CHARLESTON AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. –
The Charleston Metro Chamber of Commerce recognized local military men and women who have given back to the community in incalculable ways at the fourth annual Armed Forces Dinner May 7.
Of the eight members and two civilians recognized for their community service to various organizations, two were from Charleston AFB.
Master Sgt. Scott Vendrely, 437th Airlift Wing, superintendent inspector general element is the U.S. Air Force Service Member of the Year.
Sergeant Vendrely was selected because he exemplified the spirit of community service by volunteering more than 36 hours for Habitat for Humanity and participating in the Trident United Way Day of Caring.
"All the volunteer work I do is not for personal gain," said Sergeant Vendrely. "I want to do it; I like helping the community."
He also contributed several hours to different programs and centers all over the Charleston area to include: the Dorchester County sheriff's department Ride-Along program, Oakbrook middle school science programs, North Charleston Pepperhill baseball facility and officiating for the Greenville Lacrosse Association.
"Sergeant Vendrely's work ethic and enthusiasm is definitely something to be modeled," said Lt. Col. Dean Rosenquist, 437th Airlift Wing Inspector General. "The work he does amazes me. He does great things for the wing and the community, but the fact that he's a single dad who raises three kids while working on his masters degree is amazing."
Senior Master Sgt. Kenneth Gregory, 315th Airlift Wing, superintendent of programs and mobility is the U.S. Air Force Reservist of the Year.
Sergeant Gregory organized the collection of holiday gifts for needy families through both "Debi's Kids" and "Families Helping Families" programs. He participated in Habitat for Humanity and collected 140 percent of his group's goal for the year and he lead an effort to purchase new backpacks for foster children in Dorchester County. He willingly participated in the local Veteran's Day parade and the Charleston Air Expo which provided the community an opportunity to learn about the air base.
"He is an expert in his job, I expect him to be a chief one day," said Col. James Joyce, 315th Maintenance Group commander. "He goes out and does things for people in need not seeking recognition, he does it because he likes to help people."
Dr. Ronald Sega, Under Secretary of the Air Force, served as the keynote speaker.
The folks here not only serve our nation and defend our country, but they also take it upon themselves to serve the community in ways that are above and beyond what are asked of them, said Dr. Sega.
More than 400 business representatives and servicemembers attended the event at the Charleston Area Convention Center in North Charleston.