Photo By Sgt. Asia Sorenson | Col. Reginald Hairston, Commanding Officer, Security and Emergency Services Battalion,...... read more read more
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Col. Reginald Hairston, Commanding Officer, Security and Emergency Services Battalion, was presented with the North San Diego County NAACP’s 2016 Military Advocacy Award during the organization’s annual Blue and Gold Freedom Fund Awards Gala, Oct. 1, 2016.
Nominees were selected based on their presence in the community and the work they had done throughout the past year.
“We definitely know that every service member gives of themselves,” said Satia Austin, President, NSDC NAACP. “They’re constantly making sure that we’re protected, but there has to be a little plus of going outside of that realm, involving themselves in the community, getting involved and saying that ‘count on me if you need help.’ That type of deal and that’s what Col. Hairston has done.”
Hairston took command of Camp Pendleton’s Security and Emergency Services Battalion in July 2015. Since then, he has participated in the 2016 Law Enforcement Torch Run in support of the Special Olympics, done various volunteer work and was presented with an honorary award from the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity during their 80th Grand Conclave in Las Vegas.
“He shows up at everything,” said Austin. “We had a day of service and, like I said, he offered not only people who were under him but himself.”
The 2016 Military Advocacy Award was presented by retired Chief Warrant Officer Gerald Hampton. In his presentation he defined advocacy as an activity by an individual or organization which aims to influence decisions within political, economic and social systems and institutions.
Hairston said in his acceptance speech that he was honored to receive the award and spoke on the importance of acknowledging those who came before him and the support he has received.
“We exist, the Marine Corps, because the American people want us,” said Hairston. “And so we exist here in California, Camp Pendleton, because the outside community has accepted us in. We go to schools, churches, we shop, we have fun with everyone outside the gate. So, being an advocate, especially one that I hope is positive, allows us to continue those relationships and allows them to continue supporting us as we support the nation.”
Several members of the surrounding community were in attendance, including representatives from the city council, the Police and Fire Department, the Tri-City Medical Center board and the Oceanside school department. Proceeds from the gala went to the branch’s back to school/stay in school charity and branch operations.
For more information on the NSDC NAACP visit www.NSDCNAACP.org.
| Date Taken: | 10.01.2016 |
| Date Posted: | 10.03.2016 16:33 |
| Story ID: | 211194 |
| Location: | CARLSBAD, CALIFORNIA, US |
| Web Views: | 79 |
| Downloads: | 1 |
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