Cook family earns Sheppard Military Family of the Year award 2010

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Adawn Kelsey
  • 82nd Training Wing Public Affairs
SHEPPARD AIR FORCE BASE, Texas --  Brig. Gen. Darryl Burke, 82nd Training Wing commander, said during his comments Dec. 1 at the annual Military Family of the Year recognition event that everyone - whether military or civilian - took an oath to serve ... some just step out a little more.

That's why Maj. Kenneth Cook, an instructor pilot at the 459th Flying Training Squadron, and his family were honored at the event as Sheppard's Military Family of the year.

"We all just feel privileged and bless to be considered and nominated for this award," Lindy Cook said. "It's very humbling to earn this award."

The annual award recognizes those who make a significant contribution to the base as well as the local community. The Cook family said some of their favorite things they participated in over the past year were the Alzheimer's walk, Christmas in Action, the Youth Leadership of Wichita Falls and the Senior Citizens of North Texas senior prom.

Senior Master Sgt. Dana Wood from 82nd Force Support Squadron said Major Cook, his wife and their four children - McKell, Kenzie, Shelby and Nicholas - have worked hard to make a difference.

"To touch on a few accomplishments over the past year, the Cook family was involved as a team leader for the Christmas in Action, Relay for Life, Give a Child a Christmas and assisted in multiple 80th Flying Training Wing Spouse Group fundraising events," she said. "The children are also members of the Youth Leadership of Wichita Falls, an organization that focuses on beautification projects around town."

General Burke said volunteering and helping those in need provides more than just a good feeling to individuals and families.

"Whether you help out a neighbor or volunteer, it strengthens your family, builds character and gives you opportunities to go anywhere you haven't been before," the general said. "It makes great memories and gives children a foundation to build on. (The Cook family) has done fabulous work and represented us well and I encourage everyone to take the time to do some charity work during the upcoming holidays."