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Scott Airmen win Volunteer of the Year honors

  • Published
  • By Sean Clements
  • 375th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs
SCOTT AIR FORCE BASE, Ill. --  

Master Sgt. Julie Frydrych and Senior Airman Tanner Collins are this year’s recipients of the Area 12 Special Olympics Volunteer of the Year award.

The award is presented annually to recognize individuals who demonstrate year-round spirit, dedication and selfless efforts to support and promote Special Olympics.

During a ceremony at the 435th Supply Chain Operations Squadron May 25, Special Olympics Area 12 Director Justin Dunning presented the prestigious award to Frydrych and Collins with the help of local Special Olympics athlete Tony Hill. The award presentation is evidence that their commitment through several years of service to Special Olympics has not gone unnoticed.

Frydrych’s supervisor Senior Master Sgt. Gary Thompson said he admires her work ethic.

“It takes compassion, patience and a willingness to want to make a difference in someone’s life. She wants to make an impact. That same compassion, patience and willingness is evident in how she goes about her duties as a Senior SNCO,” said Thompson.

As a leader at the 435th Supply Chain Operations Squadron at Scott Air Force Base, Frydrych’s dedication and enthusiasm has been displayed through countless events during her time with Special Olympics. As a volunteer, committee member, key volunteer, and Special Olympics diplomat, Frydrych has given her time and expertise to ensure the success of events including the Polar Plunge, Trivia Knight and annual bowling events, as well as various other sporting events.

“She not only displays characteristics that make her a special volunteer, but she is truly an ambassador for volunteers, staff, coaches and athletes,” said Dunning.

Frydrych uses both her energy and dedication to support the Air Force mission. As a recipient of numerous awards she has proven to be a professional role model and helped cultivate volunteerism among younger Airmen in her unit.

Collins began working with Special Olympics in New Hampshire before joining the Air Force.

Now, as a military member located in Illinois Special Olympics Area 12 (comprised of 10 counties in the St. Louis area), Collins encourages all Airmen to stay active in their community.

After several years of working with Special Olympics, Collins shows no signs of slowing down. When asked about his motivation to continue working with Special Olympics, his focus remains on the athletes.

“I played sports through my entire childhood and all of high school, and I have never been on a team as close as some of these athletes are with each other,” he said.

With volunteerism being an emphasis in the Air Force for career development, community support and personal growth, it is important for people to find an organization they personally connect with.

“Volunteering not only shows your leadership that you’re a well-rounded Airman, but it also shows the community that we are aiming high in the Air Force,” Collins said. “Special Olympics is in more than 220 countries, so no matter how long my career lasts or where I’m stationed, I always plan on volunteering with Special Olympics.”

For help finding a local organization with volunteer opportunities, contact the Airman & Family Readiness Center at 256-8668.