VFW Awards Recognize Acheivement

Indianapolis, Aug. 25, 2010 – The Citizenship Award went to Judge Robert T. Russell, Jr., of Buffalo, N.Y., for his innovative approach to handling nonviolent crimes committed by veterans. He created the first Veterans Treatment Court in 2008. At least 40 other courts have followed his example. “Personal pride and hope” are essential to rehabilitation, Russell said, and these courts provide that opportunity.

The first woman in U.S. history to be promoted to four-star general, Army Gen. Ann Dunwoody, was presented with the Armed Forces Award. Dunwoody, whose service includes from September 1990 to March 1991 during the Persian Gulf War, accepted the award on behalf of all those currently serving. She encouraged VFW members to continue their support of troops. “When they were needed, they were there,” she said. “They have given so much and asked for so little in return.”

Top-ranking noncommissioned officers from four of the five military services accepted the Americanism Award on behalf of their respective service’s enlisted personnel. (Because the Army rep was unable to make it to Indianapolis, the award will be presented to him at the Washington Conference.) Several of the acceptors were proud VFW life members, and expressed their gratitude for the organization’s recognition of the outstanding duties performed by men and women in their ranks today.

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VFW Awards Recognize Acheivement