2009 Spirit of Freedom Honorees
On November 11 , I was pleased to honor eighteen Idahoans for their efforts in military service and volunteering through The Spirit of Freedom: Idaho Veterans Service Award. Please review the short bios on each of the recipients to learn more about how much they have given to our country and its veterans.
Veterans:
Carlo J. Fenicottero, Boise:
Carlo’s long military career demonstrates the commitment that so many Idahoans have to the military. He enlisted 26 years ago, and went through basic training in Texas. But that was just the beginning of his military travels. He has been posted to Guam, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Italy, Kuwait and Iraq. He has distinguished himself through his service and commitment to aircraft maintenance, and has been recognized with a number of awards including: the Meritorious Service Medal, the Air Force Commendation Medal and the Air Force Achievement Medal. Currently he is the 124th Air Maintenance Squadron Superintendent, 124 Win, Idaho Air National Guard, Gowen Field, Boise, where he is responsible for the professional development of more than 100 enlisted personnel assigned to the Aircraft Maintenance Unit, which maintains a fleet of A-10/OA-10+ aircraft.
Carlo’s commitment to the military is matched by his passion for fishing. He serves as the fishing coordinator for the Idaho State Veterans Home/Veterans Administration “Fishing Buddies” program. His volunteer efforts also include the Camouflage Christmas program and monthly barbeques with the VA. It is an honor to present Carlo for the Spirit of Freedom Award, for his contributions to the military and our country.
Art Gimpel, Idaho Falls:
Art Gimpel was simply following in his father’s footsteps in serving his country when he joined military in Missouri. With 20 years of service behind him when he retired, he was able to see much of the world—Thailand, Vietnam, Spain and Turkey. And along the way, he collected numerous awards for his service, including: the Air Force Commendation Medal, Air Force Outstanding Unit Award, Air Force Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal with two Bronze Stars and numerous other awards.
Art met his wife, Toni, who is also being honored here today, while he was stationed at Hill Air Force Base. Together they have raised a patriotic family: a daughter, a son and two grandsons who are all proud members of the American Legion Family. Art has been an active leader in the American Leader, serving in leadership posts during his twenty years of membership. He also contributes many volunteer hours on behalf of veterans, and has even subbed for Santa at the Christmas Gift Table. I am pleased to bring Art to this “gift table” today and present him with the Spirit of Freedom Award in recognition of his many years of stellar service to our nation.
Robert S. Jackson, Jr., Twin Falls:
Robert S. Jackson is an Idaho native who spent many years in the U.S. Navy, serving throughout the world on various aircraft carriers that traveled to Vietnam, Libya, Lebanon, and locations for Desert Shield/Storm. His numerous awards throughout his career include Sailor of the Year three times, Navy Commendation Medal, Navy Achievement Medal, Silver Wreath with six stars and Meritorious Unit Commendation. His military service took its toll on his health, but that hasn’t prevented him from continuing to give back to his community and country.
Since his retirement in 1992, he has found ways to assist local veterans, particularly with his administrative and organizational skills. He is well-respected in the state veterans community and has helped a number of projects move smoothly ahead with his input and expertise. His list of projects is long and includes leadership positions, VFW State Convention posts and MC responsibilities. He is also a proud father of three daughters and husband to Jennifer, who also volunteers with the VFW Ladies Auxiliary. I am honored to recognize his military service, commitment and sacrifice with the 2009 Spirit of Freedom Award.
H. Melvin Napier, Boise:
Although H. Melvin Napier started life in Indiana, he has called Idaho home for a number of years. He enlisted in the U.S. Air Force in 1952 just after graduating from high school. During his active duty, he received National Defense Service Medal and Good Conduct Medal.
His volunteer efforts with veterans follow the motto, “a veteran willing to help another veteran and/or their family.” Mel says it this way: “Working together, we can call do it better.” His many years of involvement in the American Legion have nearly made his name synonymous with the American Legion. He has served as Post Commander, National Vice Commander, Idaho State Adjutant and other capacities. And he still found time to serve on the Idaho State Veterans Affairs Committee and the Brave Hearts Organization. He lives with his wife Emily in Boise; they have two sons and six grandchildren. He has been a reliable stalwart in the Idaho veterans community, and it is a pleasure to award him with the 2009 Spirit of Freedom in honor of his military service.
Victor A. Paul, Boise:
\Victor A. Paul spent his military service in the U.S. Army and U.S. Navy. Out of basic, he was assigned to the Florida Reserve Unit, and then helped train M1 tank drivers in the Mohave Desert. But his assignment as a member of the Honor Guard really made a mark on him as he stood guard over the caskets of the returning fallen heroes. In keeping with military tradition, the Honor Guard needed to look sharp every time they were on duty. That called for a fresh haircut, and soon Victor found himself the unofficial company barber.
After his military service, Victor returned to his home state of Idaho and became an outstanding volunteer for veterans. His service with the Boise VA Medical Center covers a variety of assignments and projects. Most of them are much-needed, and I particularly noted that he added to his resume beyond haircutting expertise to include ice cream dipping and hamburger barbecuing. He has served as the VA Voluntary Service Committee Representative for the American Red Cross and has been stalwart in providing support for veterans in Idaho. I am honored to recognize Victor with the 2009 Spirit of Freedom Award.
Kathryn L. Peterson, Twin Falls:
Kathryn L. Peterson’s military service took her far from Twin Falls, where she grew up. She served in the U.S. Air Force and U.S. Navy throughout the country and the world—as far away as Thailand. She has been recognized with a number of awards including Air Force Commendation Medal, Good Conduct Medals in both the Navy and Air Force, Defense Meritorious Service Medal and others.
She has spent a large part of her life being of service to others, whether it’s been through the military, with her family members or assisting veterans. Kathryn’s efforts have been particularly significant in fundraising; she has helped raise funds through woodworking, jewelry sales, patches and many other items and projects. She has also been heavily involved with efforts to assist disabled veterans and found satisfaction in participating with Camp Rainbow Gold. Kathryn’s work covers a wide gamut and received much praise, so I’m proud to join that praise by honoring her with the 2009 Spirit of Freedom Award.
Clifford H. Rogers, Coeur d’Alene:
Clifford H. Rogers started his military career with the U.S. Army, where he service in various military intelligence groups in Viet Nam. A Staff Sergeant, he served honorably and received recognition for his service and actions, including the Army Commendation Medal, the RVN Cross of Gallantry and the Meritorious Unit Citation among others.
Following the military, Clifford took his experience and put it to work in the auditing field, working for various oil companies throughout the Southwest. But he ended up in retirement in north Idaho, and we are pleased to have him here. He has been an exemplary soldier and citizen, and it is an honor to award him the 2009 Spirit of Freedom Award.
Chester Kenneth “Kenny” Smith, Boise:
As a member of the U.S. Navy, Kenny served in World War II. For his service, he received several medals, including the Asiatic-Pacific Area Campaign medal and the World War II Victory Medal. Following his military tour, he married Doris and settled down, working for Mountain Bell Telephone.
When his beloved wife passed away in 2004, after more than 50 years together, she was buried at the Idaho State Veterans Cemetery, and Kenny soon became one of the most valuable assets at the cemetery. His volunteer service at the Idaho State Veterans Cemetery covers many tasks, but is always done with respect and honor. His efforts ensure that the cemetery is able to fully function as a sacred and hallowed ground for Idahoans. And it is with great pleasure that we commend his service with the 2009 Spirit of Freedom Award.
Roy M. Weaver, Coeur d’Alene:
Roy M. Weaver’s hometown of Bickleton, Washington, had fewer than 100 residents. He was reared on a dairy farm, where he learned the meaning of hard work and developed a self-described “contempt for dairy cows.” The military offered him a way out as military life always appealed to him. He says the discipline of farm life prepared him well for the discipline of military life.
He joined up with the U.S. Marine Corps and, over his years of service, was honored with the Bronze Star, World War II Medal and Korea Service Medal among many other awards and citations. Roy says he violated the unspoken rule of “never volunteer for anything,” and that ended up giving him a taste of world travel. His military service locations are among some of the most well-known for that war: Okinawa, Bataan, Corregidor and the Philippines. In fact, he calls the bombing of the Cavite Navy Yard on December 10 his “baptism of fire,” and was held as a POW for a period of time. I hope that today’s honor of the 2009 Spirit of Freedom Award provides him with the recognition and appreciation that is due to one who has served his country so well.
John P. Wyatt, Lewiston:
An Army Air Corps Sergeant, John P. Wyatt’s recognition and awards include the Distinguished Flying Cross, Air Medal with three Oak Leaf Clusters, Campaign medal with three bronze stars and several others. He served throughout Europe during World War II, including Normandy and northern France. He served with distinction and always made his country proud.
John was born in Joplin, Missouri, and joined the military at age 24. Following his military experience, he settled down with Doris Tackett; together they raised a fine family with four children. He stayed true to his rural roots from Missouri and spent most of his adult working life as a mechanic and farmer. And it is with great honor, that I award John the Spirit of Freedom Award for 2009.
Volunteers
Toni Gimpel, Idaho Falls:
Daughter of a veteran, married to a veteran, Toni has been serving veterans in her community all her life. You’ve already heard about her husband, Art, earlier in this event. Well, she is outstanding in her own right. She is active in the American Legion Auxiliary, a life member serving in various capacities including as President. Her President’s project raised over $2,500 for the three state Veterans Homes. She has represented Idaho on the National Girls State Committee, and she has spent far too many hours to count training high school students in parliamentary procedure. Her volunteer efforts include Girls State, high school training, homeless stand downs, food drives and local USO shows.
Toni and Art met in Utah when he was stationed at Hill Air Force Base; they married in 1970 and have two children, a son and a daughter, and two grandsons. Their family members are proud to be part of the Legion Family, and I am proud to honor Toni with the 2009 Spirit of Freedom Award.
James C. Metzer, Mountain Home:
James followed his more than 20 years of military service with more than three decades of volunteer service, totaling over 30,000 volunteer hours. He retired in 1981 as a Master Sergeant in the U.S. Air Force, and got busy volunteering. And he didn’t limit his efforts to one organization; he volunteers his time to the local American Legion, the state American Legion organization and the Idaho State Veterans Cemetery.
He has really worked to bring the best of our Idaho quality of life and helping veterans and their families enjoy the skiing, fishing, boating and camping opportunities available in our great state. He also spent many hours doing handyman jobs for military families, and we all know there are always lots of items on those “honey do” lists. His construction and handyman skills came in just right for remodeling the local American Legion Post. And one item I wanted to make certain to note: James also volunteered with the Special Olympics, rebuilding equipment with special features for each contestant to use in the winter games. It is a special honor for me to present James with the 2009 Spirit of Freedom Award.
Vernon Perkins, Boise:
A Navy World War II veteran, Vern’s volunteer efforts at the Idaho State Veterans Cemetery covers nearly every service provided by that organization. His goal is to maintain the hallowed and sacred nature of the final resting place for Idaho’s military fallen—from the visitors center to the funeral services and interment. And he does it with respectful consistency. When his wife of more than 60 years passed away in 2007, she was buried at the cemetery and Vern kept up with his volunteer duties.
His efforts often go above and beyond regular volunteer duties. He fills in for those who cannot fulfill their commitment for personal reasons. Vern’s management skills from his civilian career have been very useful in keeping services going at the cemetery. His efforts are often noted by families who visit the cemetery. We are pleased today to note his efforts with the 2009 Spirit of Freedom Award.
William O. Reed, Glenns Ferry:
William O. Reed has made a difference through his tireless efforts in volunteering for everything from town revitalization and food bank distributions to blood drives and travel safety. He has put in hundreds of hours each year on VFW projects that have improved his community and the lives of veterans who live there. One of his most visible efforts can be seen every holiday when he proudly displays the American flag as a member of the honor guard for local parades.
But his volunteer efforts have moved out into the community, where he spends many hours running an Idaho Food Bank program that helps fill the pantries of 115 families each month. He has donated his time and energy to local Red Cross blood drives. You can find him delivering Meals On Wheels to members of the seniors community, as well as cutting firewood for them and shoveling snow from their sidewalks. The list of his volunteer activities is long and varied; Bill is a guy who just “cain’t say no” to helping someone in need. And I’m glad to say, yes, let’s honor William Reed with the 2009 Spirit of Freedom Award.
S. David Shepherd, Mountain Home:
For more than ten years, S. David Shepherd has taken his belief of “brotherhood” to his fellow veterans through a number of organizations, helping with hospice meals, bedside visits, homeless programs and many others. He truly follows his belief, “serving veterans is my life’s goal.” A touching example is the many hours that he has spent bedside with dying veterans, giving family members a respite in their vigil or providing a veteran without family members at bedside with the comfort of family.
One of the individuals providing information about those being honored today stated, “Dave is one of the most genuinely caring, compassionate and selfless individuals I have ever had the sincere privilege of knowing.” What more can I add as I award Dave the 2009 Spirit of Freedom Award.
Debra Kay Staup, McCall:
Through her work as an elementary school teacher, Debra Kay Staup has spent more than 25 years working to improve the lives of veterans, beginning with an Adopt-A-Veteran penpal program she created in McCall. Her efforts started in 1984 when she became the Veterans Day Celebration Coordinator for the McCall-Donnelly Elementary School, but expanded over the next two decades to include many other youth and veteran outreach programs. She has also volunteered in walkathons, remembrance programs and other recognition events for veterans.
She has brought the joy of volunteering to her students, and left a legacy of giving back to veterans with so many young students. Her efforts will have reverberations in many lives as her students age, marry and have children of their own. Her efforts have already been recognized by so many other organizations, and I’m glad to add one more to that list—the 2009 Spirit of Freedom Award.
Daniel H. Wise, Lewiston:
In the short time that he has been volunteering, Daniel H. Wise has made his mark at the Idaho State Veterans Home. He first started volunteering when his father became a resident in 2007, but has continued those efforts since his father’s passing. Daniel is willing to do any task that will help veterans—from officiating at games and transporting veterans to organizing outings and entertainment events. He has proven to be the “go-to” volunteer at the Home. He will come in at a moment’s notice and work for whatever time period is needed to finish the job. Whether it’s scooping ice cream, helping with Bingo or coordinating a football game viewing party, Daniel is ready to help out.
Daniel has two daughters and one son, along with six grandchildren, who no doubt join us today in honoring him with the 2009 Spirit of Freedom Award for his volunteer efforts.
James Thomas “Tom” Woychick, Boise:
It is always bittersweet to recognize a volunteer posthumously, which is the recognition we are giving today to James Thomas “Tom” Woychick. Tom served as the librarian for the Idaho State Veterans Home, and provided many, many hours of service. He was always willing to help where needed and provide a listening ear to those who needed one. His outstanding volunteer efforts are greatly missed. He helped organize the books for veterans, but more importantly he listened to them and helped many find ways to occupy their time and develop friendships. He had a great sense of humor and lived his beliefs of charity, kindness and love in his actions every day.
Tom was a generous, warm person; a cherished husband, father and grandfather. His family misses him every day, and the veterans community upon which he left his mark joins them in mourning his loss. But today, we join them in celebrating his contribution as he is presented posthumously with the 2009 Spirit of Freedom Award.
