Red Cross Volunteers Praised for Contributions to Naval Health Clinic Corpus Christi Staff and Patients

CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas (NNS) -- Staff at Naval Health Clinic Corpus Christi (NHCCC) honored its Red Cross volunteers March 21, during an observance of Red Cross Month at morning formation, followed by a cake-cutting ceremony on the quarterdeck.

Betty D. Weber, office coordinator, American Red Cross - Coastal Bend - Texas, helped distribute NHCCC Letters of Commendation after an introduction by Capt. Gina M. Jaeger, commanding officer.

"Betty has a long, rich affiliation with the Navy, and she is here today to help us recognize our seven volunteers that provide valuable time here, and we have a bunch more up at Dallas-Ft. Worth clinic as well," said Jaeger. "Betty is a Navy wife and she has been volunteering and working for the Red Cross for over 35 years. So she's given a lot of time and dedication to her country as well, and we appreciate everything she's done for us."

South Texas, the Navy and the clinic have witnessed many dramatic changes over the years, but the heart of caring for people has never changed, and that is largely due to the dedicated Red Cross volunteers. Although many commanding officers have come and gone, countless Sailors and their families have served their time, through deployments, base closures, and severe weather the volunteers have remained loyal, dedicated, and caring, freely giving their time and compassion to patients and staff.

"We are forever grateful for having had the opportunity to work with you, learn from you, and more importantly to know you as friends and co-workers," said Jaeger.

Calling each volunteer to center stage individually, Weber and Jaeger presented certificates to Frances Edmonds, Carla Patterson, John Murphy, Cathy Murray, Rafael Rodriguez, and Mary Boswell. Robert Virgil was not able to attend.

"On behalf of the entire Naval Health Clinic staff," said Jaeger, "especially the pharmacy department, I extend to you the traditional Bravo Zulu for a job well done! It is with sincere gratitude and great pleasure that I thank you for your countless contributions to our patients and staff and laud you for your outstanding service to this command."

For more news from Naval Health Clinic Corpus Christi, visit www.navy.mil/local/nhcc/.