Fort McNair welcomed the First Family last week, but it wasn’t a social visit. The president and his wife, and daughters Sasha and Malia, joined a team of volunteers, including congressional staffers and volunteers from non-profit groups. The team filled 15,000 backpacks with healthy snacks, books and even a copy of the first dog’s “baseball card.” President Obama has urged all Americans to volunteer in some way this summer. This event was one of many in support of the White House’s United We Serve volunteerism initiative.

The backpacks will make it into the hands of military children attending the National Military Family Association’s Operation Purple camps. Military children need extra support, as they grow up with one or both parents away from home for long periods of time. One support comes from Operation Purple camps. In 2009, Operation Purple will host nearly 90 weeks of camp held in 62 locations in 37 states and territories. Camps are free to all participants thanks to support from the Sierra Club and The Sierra Club Foundation.... Read more here

Walter Reed Army Medical Center, which celebrates its centennial this year, is known as the Home of Warrior Care. Earlier this month, Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates visited the hospital to recognize the work of volunteers at the hospital, saying they set an example the country.

“You already have answered that call and answered it resolutely,” Gates told the group of volunteers, hospital staff and soldiers gathered. “Your work plays a vital role in uplifting spirits and easing the burdens on the families of our wounded.” Gates reiterated his stand that, other than winning the two current wars, caring for the wounded is his greatest priority. And, he said, those who volunteer are stepping up.
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