By CHRIS AGEE
Local AMVETS member Gary Salisbury was recently honored with the White Clover Award for his commitment to volunteering over the past year.
AMVETS Post 133 Commander Jim Vines explained the award makes use of the organization's official flower, a four-leaf clover symbolizing both the states from which the U.S. Armed Forces were drawn and the battlefields on which they fought around the world.
The award is given annually to a member who exemplifies volunteerism and service, Vines said, explaining Salisbury is a very deserving recipient.
His "unfaltering attention" to the National Vietnam War Museum, especially as groundskeeper, is a demanding job and Vines explained Salisbury diligently leads a crew of workers each week to keep the property in pristine condition.
According to Vines, Salisbury also works closely with area youth, which includes teaching them skills needed to prepare for the annual Farm and Ranch Expo.
Additionally, he regularly visits a hospital "to put a smile on a veteran's face – and not necessarily an AMVETS member," Vines explained.
"There is probably a lot more that I am not aware of because he is so humble," Vines added.
The White Clover Medal stems from the fundraising program began nearly 60 years ago by AMVETS, proceeds from which have historically been used to help the needy. Fundraising campaigns generally take place around Memorial Day, Independence Day and Veterans Day.
Each post may determine the basis of choosing a medal recipient and Post 133 uses the honor to recognize its member of the year.
Following last year's win by Col. Willie Casper, Vines said Salisbury is in good company.
"Post 133 is proud to acknowledge Gary Salisbury as the 2012 AMVET member of the year."
Salisbury received the medal and award earlier this month during the organization's monthly meeting at Holiday Hills Country Club.
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