MARINE CORPS AIR STATION MIRAMAR, Calif. -- Every year the National Recreation and Park Association's Armed Forces Recreation Society recognizes civilian staff members worldwide who improve servicemembers' quality of life aboard various military installations.
During the recreation society's annual awards banquet held in San Antonio Oct. 18, Marine Corps Air Station Miramar took home two of the 21 awards presented to Marine Corps employees.
Alisa Hertzler, Single Marine Program coordinator, Marine Corps Community Services, MCAS Miramar, was honored with the John (Pat) Harden Practitioner Award for her contributions to the SMP. Sandra Ward, recreation aid, Great Escape, MCCS, received the Front Line Award for her service to Miramar's Marines and Sailors at the station's enlisted recreation center.
"Alisa and Sandra are wonderful assets to the MCCS family," said Diana "DJ" McCluskey, social recreation director, MCCS. "They're always there for the servicemembers and always excited to support the military. It's outstanding that they were recognized worldwide for their efforts."
Despite the big achievements, Hertzler and Ward couldn't be more modest about the recognition.
"I was in shock when I found out," said Hertzler, a Claremont, Calif., native. "I didn't think everyone thought so highly about the job I do. The award really means a lot to me."
During her three years at Miramar, Hertzler coordinated numerous barracks bashes, video game challenges and off-base adventure trips, including a recent weeklong trip to Hawaii.
Hertzler also created the nationally recognized "Official Hugger Program" after attending her first homecoming for the troops, where many Marines and Sailors returned without anyone to greet them. As a result, Hertzler gathered up volunteers for future homecomings to greet the servicemembers with a hug.
Although recognized worldwide, it is in the eyes of the air station's Marines where she is most appreciated.
"I hope Alisa receives as much recognition as she can get," said Lance Cpl. Brittany Siroki, Air Traffic Controller, MCAS Miramar and SMP vice president. "She always gives us all of her time and goes the extra mile for us. I'm really happy for her."
Ward, like Hertzler, also directs most of her energy to Miramar's servicemembers at the station's enlisted recreation center.
During her four-and-a-half years working at the Great Escape, Ward has made many changes, including the implementation of additional security controls in the computer center, ordering a new snack spot for the game area and designing new storage space for the center's equipment.
When she's not making improvements to the Great Escape, Ward spends most of her time listening to and relaxing with the Marines and Sailors, who simply call her "mom."
"She just has those motherly qualities," said Cpl. Jennifer R. McCarter, postal clerk, MCAS Miramar.""I enjoy talking with her, and I know I can laugh and joke with her. If she wasn't here, something would be missing. I'd do anything for 'mom.'"
Although now known worldwide, Hertzler and Ward continue to serve the air station for the same reasons they always have; the love of their jobs and the servicemembers they encounter every day.
"I'd probably be lost without this job," said Ward. "I look forward to seeing these guys and girls every weekend. I'm going to stay here until they tell me I can't come here anymore. Besides, moms can't quit."