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Team McChord Reservist wins Citizen-Soldier award

  • Published
  • By Master Sgt. Jake Chappelle
  • 446th Airlift Wing
MCCHORD FIELD, Wash. --  Receiving tributes is the last thing on Staff Sgt. Ralph Godinez's mind when he submerges himself in community service activities. In his eyes, seeing the results of his efforts is more than enough appreciation.

However, fellow Airmen in his Reserve unit felt his efforts needed to be shared, so they nominated him as the Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber, Howard O. Scott Citizen-Soldier of the Year. He will accept the award today at the Kiwanis Club of Tacoma luncheon in Seattle.

"Sergeant Godinez is an invaluable member of the 728th Airlift Squadron 'Flying Knights' family," said Lt. Col. Richard Poston, 728th AS commander in Godinez's nomination letter. "His dedication to duty and achievements go above and beyond what is expected."

Godinez, who was also recognized by his peers last year as the 728th AS Most Valuable Performer Award winner, won the Citizen-Soldier award for going the extra mile in both his Reserve career and personal life.

The Graham, Wash., resident is best known for founding Café dos Ninas, a non-profit coffee stand, in which all proceeds go to support families affected by Twin-to-Twin Transfusion Syndrome, with biannual funds going to the Evergreen Healthcare Foundation. Since its inception eight years ago, the café has donated more than $20,000.

Godinez's volunteers and coordinates youth events for the Northwest Fellowship Children's ministry, coaches youth soccer, is a reading tutor for third grade students and is also a member of the Air Force Sergeants' Association.

As an Air Force Reservist, he's responsible for ensuring the readiness of 120 people in his squadron by making sure documents and equipment are up to date, so they are ready to deploy worldwide, with short notice. He tracks surplus equipment and items, saving the squadron thousands of dollars a year. Godinez also keeps unit members in touch with current events while they work in the civilian force.

This is the second consecutive year that a 446th AW Reservist has earned the award.