Just walk in the doors of Allegra Marketing Print Mail, a family owned marketing firm, and you immediately recognize the vivacious, fun and energetic personalities of owners Rosemary and Larry Lynn. One can't help but smile as these proud grandparents of 9-month-old grandson, Oliver, complete one another's sentences and lovingly banter back and forth about how they first became involved with the Southeastern Firefighters Burn Foundation. Their love for the organization is evident as Rosemary notes, "You can't help everybody so it makes you think about what you really want to support. And the Foundation was one."

They arrive before dawn on chilly Saturdays and rainy Sundays. Their assignment may be to pick up trash, set up tables, blow up balloons or serve meals. They do it with a smile, a "yes Ma'am" or "no Sir" and don't expect any compensation. "They" are airmen assigned to the 31st Intelligence Squadron and personnel with the Navy Information Operations Command at Ft. Gordon, who have volunteered at numerous SFBF-sponsored events.

 

These young men and women represent different states across the US and have uniquely different backgrounds and interests, but one thing that they have in common is serving their country and their local community.

 

SSgt. Evan Godwin sums up why he volunteers. "It's an amazing feeling to know that you are helping someone or a particular cause and all it cost you was time, labor and sweat. Waking up early, long hours, crummy weather...these are just minor obstacles that can easily be overcome because those in need of help on the other end are more than worth it. The Burn Foundation does awesome things and touches so many in the community; we just want to do what we can to help shoulder some of the burden and make each event a success."

 

Our country is in good hands, indeed. Thank you, Ft. Gordon volunteers!