Kudos to Friends of Fernandina Aviation

Submitted by Suanne Z. Thamm
Reporter – News Analyst
July 17, 2014 8:56 a.m.

While the audience expects to see the Fernandina Beach Mayor deliver proclamations and recognition, it is rare that they get a chance to see an award given to the city to recognize efforts of dedicated city volunteers.  But that is just what happened at the July 15, 2014 Fernandina Beach City Commission (FBCC) meeting.

USO's Jim Bury presents Mayor Ed Boner with an award recognizing volunteer contributions of FOFA members.
USO’s Jim Bury presents Mayor Ed Boner with an award recognizing volunteer contributions of FOFA members.

Mr. Jim Bury, United Service Organizations (USO) Center Director, requested and received permission to formally recognize the volunteerism and service of the Friends of Fernandina Aviation (FOFA) members.  Bury commended the FOFA members for their volunteer staffing at the USO Center at Jacksonville International Airport.  He said that the members, joined by other community volunteers, have contributed over 1,000 hours and filled in three holes in coverage.  Efforts of the USO, aided by FOFA, serve the nation’s traveling military members and their families.  He said that their goal is to insure that every departing service member and every returning service member has someone to greet  him or her upon departure or arrival.  Sometimes, as was the case recently, that means honoring their returning remains.

FOFA President Jerry Kawecki joins Mayor Boner in accepting award.
FOFA President Jerry Kawecki joins Mayor Boner in accepting award.

FOFA president Jerry Kawecki joined Mayor Boner in accepting the award, along with the volunteers who participate in this activity.

FOFA volunteers pose for photos following delivery of award to city.
FOFA volunteers pose for photos following delivery of award to city.

Suanne ThammEditor’s Note: Suanne Z. Thamm is a native of Chautauqua County, NY, who moved to Fernandina Beach from Alexandria,VA, in 1994. As a long time city resident and city watcher, she provides interesting insight into the many issues that impact our city. We are grateful for Suanne’s many contributions to the Fernandina Observer.

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Dave Lott
Dave Lott(@dave-l)
9 years ago

The USO is a wonderful organization and it is great to see that they are supported so strongly by the FOFA members and others in the community.