ALCGPSC 073/24 - ANNOUNCEMENT OF THE 2024 AMERICAN LEGION SPIRIT OF SERVICE

R 211200Z MAY 24 MID120001119670U

ALCGPSC 073/24
SUBJECT: ANNOUNCEMENT OF THE 2024 AMERICAN LEGION SPIRIT OF SERVICE
AWARD RECIPIENT
A. My 141849Z MAY 20
B. My 141920Z MAY 24
C. ALCGPSC 029/24
1. Cancel refs A and B.
2. I am pleased to announce the selection of ET2 Richard Galbierz,
assigned to Base St. Louis, MO, as the Coast Guard recipient of the
2024 American Legion "Spirit of Service" Award. This award is
presented to an enlisted member from each branch of the Armed Forces
who performs high levels of community service. Presentation of the
award will occur during the Annual National Convention in Charlotte,
North Carolina.
3. ET2 Galbierz has distinguished himself through outstanding
professional performance and presence in his primary duties, and in
his sustained and selfless commitment to performing nearly 1,000 hours
of volunteer service within the local community of St. Louis, MO.
4. Upon reporting to Base St. Louis, ET2 Galbierz sought out
opportunities to volunteer and make a difference within the local
community. Research led him to Epworth Children and Family Services; a
facility for local youth in foster care. He devoted over 200 hours of
personal time to this non-profit organization performing mentoring and
tutoring services and fund-raising efforts. Most noteworthy was his
mentorship of one specific youth, providing a consistent presence and
positive influence in the face of adversity and life challenges.
ET2 Galbierz was able to celebrate a life milestone with this mentee
as they graduated High School and started their adult life.
5. Throughout the summer of 2023 ET2 Galbierz volunteered as an
assistant football coach for Fox Senior High School in Arnold, MO. He
assisted in coaching 85 students in weight training exercises and a
two-week football camp, utilizing personal leave to attend. Throughout
the football season he filled the role of defensive line coach and
quickly became a standout within the staff for his level of commitment
and passion to the program and students. ET2 Galbierz received high
praise from the head football coach for his leadership and positive
impact on the team.
6. After building such a good rapport with the students and coaching
staff at Fox Senior High School it was an easy shift for ET2 Galbierz
to fill the role of assistant wrestling coach from November to
December 2023. During this time ET2 Galbierz dedicated many hours
coaching and mentoring 60 students. His efforts involved assisting
with after-school practices, onsite and remote duals, and weekend
wrestling tournaments between local schools. ET2 Galbierz's efforts
aided the High School in one of the most successful wrestling seasons
in recent school history with nearly every member of the team
receiving 1st Team All-Conference awards.
7. ET2 Galbierz also found time and energy to devote towards fostering
animals through Stray Rescue of St. Louis, MO. During this time, he
provided shelter, food, and items for enrichment at his own expense to
animals awaiting adoptions. Additionally, ET2 Galbierz coordinated
veterinarian visits for heart worm treatment, spaying, and neutering.
8. ET2 Galbierz embodies the standards of the American Legion's Spirit
of Service as well as the Coast Guard's Core Values of Honor, Respect
and Devotion to Duty. He is an exceptional role model and has brought
great credit to Base St. Louis and the Coast Guard by leading with
service above self and exceeding all normal bounds of volunteerism.
9. The following nominee was also recommended for this award and
deserves honorable mention for outstanding volunteer efforts:
AST2 Nicholas Barnes - CG AIRSTA Savannah, GA.
10. Questions regarding the American Legion Spirit of Service Award may
be directed to Military Medals and Awards at
mailto:ARL.AWDSBOARD@uscg.mil.
11. RDML R. E. Dash Commander, CG Personnel Service Center, sends.
12. Internet release authorized.