ALCOAST 210/26 - JUL 2026 SELECTION OF COAST GUARD WINNER OF 2026 SPIRIT OF HOPE AWARD

R 091407Z JUL 26  MID120041372489U
FM COMDT COGARD WASHINGTON DC
TO ALCOAST
BT
UNCLAS
ALCOAST 210/26
SSIC 1650
SUBJ: SELECTION OF COAST GUARD WINNER OF 2026 SPIRIT OF HOPE AWARD
1. We are pleased to announce the Coast Guard's 2026 Spirit of Hope
Award recipient, Ms. Kali Sanchez. The Spirit of Hope Award is
presented for outstanding service to the United States of America.
It recognizes men and women of the United States Armed Forces,
entertainers, and other distinguished Americans and organizations
whose patriotism and service epitomize the values of Bob Hope:
courage, honor, duty, commitment, integrity, and selfless dedication
to others. These individuals significantly enhance the quality of
life of service members and their families serving around the world
and selflessly contribute extraordinary time, talent, or resources
to benefit members of the United States Armed Forces.
2. Ms. Sanchez is recognized for her visionary leadership at
Training Center Petaluma. She transformed the TRACEN Treasures
Thrift Store and Food Pantry into a vibrant community hub by
recruiting a team of expert volunteers. Leveraging their specialized
skills and community connections, they established a permanent food
bank partnership that distributed over 60,000 lbs. of provisions to
base personnel through multiple crises. Ms. Sanchez's selfless
dedication reflects the legacy of Bob Hope and the highest
traditions of the Coast Guard.
3. Ms. Sanchez is invited to the Pentagon to accept the 2026 Spirit
of Hope Award at a ceremony honoring awardees from every branch at
10:30 a.m. on September 23, 2026.
4. We offer our appreciation to CAPT Joshua D. Burch for nominating
Ms. Sanchez.
5. Questions should be directed to Ms. Zenobia Williams, COMDT
(CG-COMMS-3), at Zenobia.A.Williams@uscg.mil.
6. Released by Ms. J. M. Plozai, SES, Director of Communications
(CG-COMMS), sends.
7. Internet release is authorized.