Announcement of the Marine Corps Recipient of the 2016 American Legion Spirit of Service Award

1.  The American Legion has selected Staff Sergeant Steven M. Jenks of Marine Corps Cyberspace Warfare Group, Fort Meade, Maryland, as the recipient of the 2016 American Legion Spirit of Service Award.
2.  The reference solicited Marine Corps nominations for the 2016 American Legion Spirit of Service Award.  Sponsored by the National Headquarters of the American Legion, this award is presented annually to an enlisted member from each of the military services for outstanding volunteer service performed off duty in the local community.  All nominees for this year's award are commended for their dedication to the Marine Corps and their community.  A sincere thank you is extended to the commanders who nominated Marines from their units.
3.  Staff Sergeant Jenks performed more than 210 hours of community service in 2015, participating in a variety of outreach events.  Staff Sergeant Jenks dedicated his personal time and effort to assist Marines, Sailors, and family members, a testimony of his unselfish character and maturity.  Highlights include creation of the Fort Meade Volunteer Program, volunteer work for Hearts and Homes programs for Youth, numerous Group Homes, Young Mother's Transition Apartments and Confidence Building Workshops, the Laurel Boys and Girls Club, Weed Warrior Volunteer Program, Columbia Festival of Arts, TriAtholton Kid's Triathlon, and the Maryland Duathlon.
4.  Staff Sergeant Jenks will receive an award during the American Legion's national convention which will take place in Cincinnati, Ohio, 26 August 2016– 1 September 2016.  Specific coordinating instructions, to include travel arrangements, will be sent to Staff Sergeant Jenks by the American Legion and the Office of U.S. Marine Corps Communication via separate correspondence.  Congratulations Staff Sergeant Jenks for a job well done.
5.  Release authorized by Brigadier General James F. Glynn, Director, Office of Marine Corps Communication.