A Family Affair: Sanders clan named as Sheppard's Family of the Year

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Tonnette Thompson
  • 82nd Training Wing Public Affairs
SHEPPARD AIR FORCE BASE, Texas --  The Sanders are more than happy to accept Sheppard's 2007 Family of the Year award. But it's not about a plackard to hang on a wall. It's all about just what the award is for -- being a family.

"It's not just about the awards for us," said Chap. (Maj.) Jimmie Sanders, 82nd Training Wing senior Protestant chaplain, "It's a family affair."

Chaplain Sanders and his wife, Lisa, and their sons, David and Bryson, worked together as a family in different atmospheres, giving back to a community that has given them so much.

"Our lives have been blessed so that we can be a blessing to others. Nothing gives us greater joy or satisfaction than to try to make a positive difference in our community and world," Mrs. Sanders said

Major and Mrs. Sanders said they believe a strong religious foundation is what enables them to accomplish all they have, that their good fortune in life will only increase as they continue to volunteer and involve themselves in their community.

The Sanders parents have also passed this philosophy on to their children.

"We have strived to instill in our children the fact that their lives will be richer and more meaningful on into adulthood by getting involved in church, school, and community activities," Mrs. Sanders said.

Contributions to the Faith Mission homeless shelter, the YMCA, the Women-to-Women Family Network, the Nonprofit Center for Wichita Falls, Barwise Jr. High School, Sheppard Elementary, Paul Irwin Preschool and their church community not only earned the clan this award, but also garnered other accolades. Lisa is this year's Sweet Sixteen Award winner for the WTWFN, and David is this year's Air Force Services Youth of the Year for Sheppard.

Other nominees were: Master Sgt. and Mrs. Michael Brown; Maj. and Mrs. Tab Brinkman; Master Sgts. Rebecca and Roger Cleveland; Lt. Col. and Mrs. Steve Gallegos; Master Sgt. Michelle and Capt. James Gardner; Maj. Michelle and Mr. Bob Kastler; Master Sgt. and Mrs. Dave Mills; and Maj. Kelli and Mr. C.J. Niedzwiecki.