Spirit of Freedom 2015

The Spirit of Freedom award is given to veterans and volunteers each year to recognize their great contributions to our armed services and veterans.

Fred Arbuckle, Pocatello: Fred, who graduated from high school in Blackfoot, served stateside in the U.S. Air Force from 1942-1946 as a Corporal in the 21st Tow Target Group. The Idaho State Veterans Home--Pocatello nominated him for this award for his dedicated service to our nation. Fred served as a flight engineer on a B26 tow target plane, which entailed trailing a target behind a B26 while B24 fighters took target practice. This required no shortage of nerve and precision, which are traits than run deep in Fred. Fred took his job as crew chief and flight engineer especially seriously, performing pre-flight inspections, analyzing mechanical performance while in flight and troubleshooting flight problems as they occurred.

Following his service and a year working on an Air Force base, Fred returned to Blackfoot where he became a paint specialist in body shop repair. Much like his attention to detail as a crew chief and engineer, Fred became regarded throughout the area as one of the best body shop painters around. Fred and his wife of 51 years, Helen, have two children. I am honored to recognize Fred Arbuckle's dauntless service with the 2015 Spirit of Freedom Award.

Brian Beeler, Hayden: The Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) nominated Brian for this award for his distinguished service to our nation and his commitment to making a difference for fellow veterans, their families and children. Brian says his duty to his country is never over. Brian, who comes from a patriotic, military family, earned many honors during his four years of exemplary service in the U.S. Army. These commendations include the Southwest Asia Service Medal with three bronze stars, the Army Commendation Medal and Kuwait Liberation Medal.

Brian and his wife, Christie, have five children. Christie describes him as a not only a veteran and volunteer, but also a family man who loves his family and share the importance of patriotism and helping others. She highlights the joy and extreme humor” he brings to helping others and says that, “if there is anything he can do to help a brother or sister in need, he will do it.” His volunteer efforts include serving as District 1 Commander for the VFW Idaho, Quartermaster for the VFW Post 889. He is also an American Legion member and volunteer, serves in the Honor Guard for the North Idaho Veterans Chapter and much more. As someone who is rising above the impacts of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Brian has a shared understanding with his fellow veterans he serves. Hopefully, the presentation of Brian Beeler with the 2015 Spirit of Freedom Award will convey some of the gratitude he deserves for his commendable service.

Howard J. Bigelow, Sagle: Howard J. Bigelow served our nation for 22 years in the U.S. Navy and continues to serve his fellow veterans. The Vietnam Veterans of America (VVA) Idaho State Council nominated Howard to receive this award. After retirement from the Navy, he worked for U.S. Postal Service for 15 years before retiring again to dedicate himself to helping veterans. Howard says that he enjoys seeing a change in the fellow veterans he assists. He served as Chief Petty Officer in the Navy with numerous assignments in the U.S. and abroad that included serving in reconnaissance and drug interdiction; instructing Naval reservists; and serving as operation officer for a U.S. Naval sea scouts squadron. He also served as maintenance chief involved with aircraft intermediate maintenance and cruise missile development at a California naval base.

Howard has channeled his understanding as a veteran into helping fellow veterans through various veterans leadership and volunteer roles. Howard is a charter member of the VVA Chapter 890 and served in numerous leadership roles for the chapter and VVA Idaho State Council. He also volunteers at the Veterans of Foreign Wars and is the service officer for five local veterans organizations. He is known as the driving force who brought Veterans Stand Downs to Sandpoint helping more than 3,000 veterans and their families. Howard and his wife, Joan, of 46 years have two children, Ian and Kelly. I commend Howard Bigelow for his many years of service to our nation and veterans and welcome the opportunity to present him with a 2015 Spirit of Freedom Award.

Terry G. Glassinger, Meridian: The Idaho State Veterans Cemetery, where Terry has volunteered for more than a year, nominated Terry for this award. The cemetery considers Terry to be a vital part of the cemetery’s operations to provide the highest honor and dignity to memorialize the service of veterans and their loved ones. Terry served as a Sergeant in the U.S. Air Force during the Vietnam War, and continues to volunteer for the betterment of the veteran community. Terry has participated in numerous burial committal services, community programs and advocates for support of the Wreath Across America program and the National Day of Remembrance wreath laying. In addition to his service at the cemetery, Terry is an active member of the American Legion, Post 2 of Boise.

In nominating Terry for this award, James Earp, Administrator of the Idaho State Veterans Cemetery, noted Terry’s professionalism and “untiring dedication to provide a service to Veterans and their families.” Terry earned a numerous honors for his service in the Air Force and later was employed mainly with building and construction as well as supply and transportation. He has been married to his wife, Patricia, for more than 47 years and has a daughter and two grandchildren. Terry Glassinger is a valued member of the community, state and nation. Recognition of his committed service with the 2015 Spirit of Freedom Award is well-deserved.

Wayne Goetz, Kimberly: The VFW Post 2136 nominated Wayne Goetz for the 2015 Spirit of Freedom Award due to his dedicated service to our nation. Wayne served two Western Pacific tours off the shore of Vietnam in the U.S. Navy from May of 1961 to 1964. He served as an Engineman 2nd Class on the U.S.S. Haleakala.

In addition to serving our nation, Wayne has continued to assist his fellow veterans and their families. He has served as Commander of the Magic Valley Honor Guard and Commander of the Twin Falls Veterans Health Commission, and he maintains his local Veterans Cemetery. Following his military service, Wayne worked a shop foreman, worked for John Deere and owned Goetz Tractor Repair. Recognizing Wayne Goetz’s dedicated service with the 2015 Spirit of Freedom Award is an honor.

Jack Kremer, Pocatello: The Idaho State Veterans Home--Pocatello nominated Jack Kremer for this award for his dedicated service to our nation. Jack enlisted in the U.S. Army Air Corps in 1942 and served as an airplane commander, 2nd Lieutenant. Jack chose to serve in combat and trained as a B17 pilot, but Germany surrendered just before his deployment. He then trained on B29 bombers. Then, Japan surrendered just before he was scheduled to deploy to the South Pacific. After active duty, Jack served in the Air Corps Reserves.

In addition to serving our nation, Jack has served his communities. He worked as the emergency preparedness director in La Habra Heights, California, helping to protect the community from wildfires, floods and mudslides. He also enjoyed riding as a volunteer with the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department that contracted with the community for police service. Additionally, he served as scoutmaster for his church Explorers group. He was married to his wife, Katherine, for 68 years, having two sons, Richard and Johnny, and one daughter, Susan. In the early 2000s, he relocated to Pocatello to be closer to his children. Jack and his family have much to be proud of for his example of dedicated service. I welcome the opportunity to present Jack Kremer with the 2015 Spirit of Freedom Award.

James Lawson, Boise: James Lawson served honorably in the U.S. Navy during the Vietnam War and continues to serve our nation’s veterans and their families. The Idaho State Veterans Home--Boise, where James has been an outstanding volunteer for many years, nominated him for this award.

James is known at the home as a “true patriot who works hard each day to help improve the lives of our veterans.” James is responsible for the home’s library and helps with outings and assists the activity staff. He also sounds Taps for all veterans who pass at the home and he gives freely of his time, volunteering 560 hours so far this year alone. In addition to his volunteer work at the Veterans Home, he has been very active with the American Legion Home Post and helps the Commander whenever possible. James Lawson’s support for our nation and ongoing support for his fellow veterans are admirable. Recognizing him with the 2015 Spirit of Freedom Award is an honor.

Ascension Martinez, Boise: The Idaho State Veterans Cemetery, where he has volunteered since its establishment in 2004, nominated Ascension Martinez, known as “Marty”, for this award. Marty is a respected volunteer who provides mentorship to his peers and staff. He has earned a reputation for being a dependable volunteer who is consistent and unwavering in volunteering his time and knowledge from years of experience. Cemetery Administrator James Earp wrote, “One of the many strong attributes that Marty demonstrates is his selfless service to continue to give back to the Veterans and their families by being the steward of military professionalism in honoring their lifetime of contributions and service.” James cites Marty’s “calm and collected demeanor that often brings comfort and reassurance.”

As a military retiree, Marty has a valuable understanding of his fellow veterans and their families who he serves. He served in active duty in the U.S. Air Force from 1956 to 1960 before serving in the Idaho air National Guard for 13 years. His duty stations included Texas, Wyoming, Idaho and Iceland. He earned numerous awards for his distinguished service. After military service, Marty worked as an accountant. In addition to volunteering with the cemetery, Marty volunteers routinely at the Saint Mary’s Food Bank and Meals on Wheels. Marty has been married to his wife, Viola, for more than 57 years, and they have two daughters, one son, six grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. Ascension Martinez is truly a great asset to the community, state and nation. Honoring his dedicated service with the 2015 Spirit of Freedom Award is a privilege.

Rolf Simonsen, Lewiston: The Idaho State Veterans Home--Lewiston nominated Rolf Simonsen for this honor for his service to our nation, which includes serving in Normandy, France during World War II. He earned a number of honors for his distinguished service, including the Purple Heart and the European African Middle Eastern Service Medal.

Rolf was born in Norway in 1922 and left Norway at 15-years-old to travel the world. In 1940, he arrived in the U.S. and joined the U.S. Army in 1942. In 1949, he married Elizabeth (Betty), who passed away in 2012. Together they had one son, Jim, and one daughter, Barbara. After his military service, Rolf worked as a carpenter and then worked for the Montana Department of Fish and Wildlife. He then worked for Idaho Fish and Game for more than 30 years in the field. After his retirement, Rolf and Betty moved to Lewiston and enjoyed golfing and traveling. Today, he can often be found in the craft room, building and painting small buildings or in the garden tending the tomatoes. Honoring Rolf Simonsen with the 2015 Spirit of Freedom Award for his service to our nation is a privilege.

Russell Smith, Pocatello: The Idaho State Veterans Home--Pocatello nominated Russell Smith for this award for his admirable service to our nation. Russell, who enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1942, trained in demolition and explosives while stationed in Italy and was part of the U.S. force which stormed the beach at Normandy on D-Day. While facing what Russell describes as “bullet fire as thick as mosquitoes,” he and five other men destroyed an enemy pillbox and helped secure the beach before he was struck by enemy fire. After recovering from his wounds, Russell rejoined his unit in Germany where he was injured by a mortar shell. After recovering, Russell again chose to rejoin his unit and was later transferred to the Army Air Corps after he endured cold injuries to his extremities. Russell served one year in the Army Air Corps before he was discharged in 1946. He has received many honors for his distinguished service including receiving three purple hearts, and April 23 is proclaimed “Russell Smith Day” in Burley, his birthplace.

Following his military service, Russell married his childhood friend, Dorothy Smith, and they had a son, Robert. Russell and Dorothy were married 21 years. After Dorothy passed away, he married Elda Smith. Russell worked as supply personnel at a Prisoner of War Camp in California, Revere Ware Copper and Brass, Sunset Awnings and J.R. Simplot Company before his retirement in 1991, which afforded him more time to pursue his love of traveling. Celebrating Russell Smith’s exemplary service to our nation with the 2015 Spirit of Freedom Award is an honor.

Boyd Whitworth, Pocatello: Boyd Whitworth, who was born and raised in Firth, served four years in the U.S. Army as a combat medic in the South Pacific and the Philippines during World War II. The Idaho State Veterans Home--Pocatello nominated him for this award.

Boyd’s connection to nature and the land started at a young age when he raised cantaloupes and watermelons with his brother and he enjoyed sitting in apple trees, smelling the blossoms and listening to birds. He attended the Idaho State Technology College and obtained a certificate in carpentry and electrical training in 1937. Prior to his military deployment, Boyd married his wife, Beth, with whom he had nine children. After his military service, Boyd worked for himself as a carpenter and electrician, worked for Bell Telephone for 15 years and farmed his land in Blackfoot. Boyd has led a life of service, helping his neighbors, serving his nation and backing causes in his community where he saw a need. For example, he helped start Dawn Enterprises, a company serving those with physical and intellectual disabilities. Boyd Whitworth’s example of giving service is admirable. Presenting him with the 2015 Spirit of Freedom Award is an honor.

Marvin L. Wolfe, Boise: The Boise VA Medical Center nominated Marvin for this award, as Marvin served our nation from 1950-1958 in the U.S. Navy and continues to serve his fellow veterans and the Boise community. In making the nomination, Boise VA Medical Center staff wrote, “Marvin very seldom lets a week go by without volunteering to visit Veterans, helping with the Boy Scouts, his church or working with elementary school students to enable them to become better readers.”

Marvin, whose father inspired him to help others, has dedicated considerable time to improving the lives of others. Marvin was a VA Voluntary Service Representative for the Masonic Service Association of North America for many years and spent 3,500 hours visiting veterans at the Boise VA Medical Center over the past 26 years. His other volunteer service includes coordinating a Boy Scout Color Guard, serving as a Scout Leader for more than 60 years, and serving as training commissioner for the Ore-Ida Council. His exemplary leadership has been recognized through honors including being honored with Scouting’s Silver Beaver award in 1994.

Marvin was trained as an aviation weatherman. During the Korean War, Marvin was stationed at Norfolk Naval Air Station Fleet Air Wing 5 where he searched for enemy submarines. After his military service, Marvin worked for the U.S. Forest Service as a certified silviculturist and professional wildland firefighter in Wyoming, Utah, Colorado and Idaho. He also was a professor at the Treasure Valley College and worked for the Bureau of Land Management in Utah; helped with the 2000 Census in Boise, Idaho City and Seattle; and was employed by the U.S. Postal Service in Akron, Ohio and Boise. Marvin and his wife of nearly 60 years, Joan, have three children, Mark, Alan and Richard, and four grandchildren. Marvin Wolfe is a treasured member of the community, and presenting him with the 2015 Spirit of Freedom Award is an honor.

Connie Evans, Nampa: The Boise VA Medical Center nominated Connie for this award for her long-standing devotion to veterans and their well-being. Connie is recognized for never shying away from leading with her commitment to the American Legion Auxiliary and the Boise VA Medical Center. Boise VA Medical Center Director David Wood credits her for her reliability and ability to work well with everyone.

Connie, who was inspired to volunteer her time serving veterans because her husband, Dale, is U.S. Air Force Veteran, has volunteered serving veterans since 1975. Connie has served in a number of roles at the medical center, including American legion Auxiliary Deputy Representative, Representative for the VA Voluntary Service (VAVS) Committee and Chairwoman for the VAVS Executive Committee. Connie has also participated in nearly all of the veterans event at the medical center, including assisting with the yearly patient carnival, arranging a reception for the annual Salute to Veteran Patients Week, greeting dignitaries, and organizing the annual American Legion Auxiliary Christmas Gift Shop. In addition to devoting remarkable time to assisting veterans, Connie has volunteered in a number of other capacities throughout the community. This includes serving approximately 15 years in leadership roles with District Girls State Board. She and Dale have been married 56 years and raised four children. Connie Evans is an asset to the community, and recognizing her with the 2015 Spirit of Freedom Award is a privilege.

Deborah Foley, Chubbuck: The Idaho State Veterans Home--Pocatello, where Deborah has volunteered for four years, nominated her for this award. Deborah plays many instruments, including the piano, saxophone and harp. She volunteers each month sharing her gift of music with the residents, going on outings, assisting residents with swim exercise and visiting with residents. She says she loves to perform music and the people she performs for at the home. Deborah is known for going the extra mile to serve others and makes her performances special. Deborah does not just play the piano, but also makes it fun by dressing up in a beautiful gown, playing residents’ song requests, inviting residents to sing along and invoking wonderful memories through playing music from many different eras.

Deborah has a personal and deep appreciation for veterans. Her husband served in the U.S. Air Force and her son served in Iraq. Deborah and her husband, Gordy, have been married five years. They have eight children, 25 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. In addition to volunteering her time at the veterans home, Deborah assists with other organizations, including the Salvation Army and Gate City Christian Church. Deborah Foley’s giving spirit is greatly valued, and presenting her with the 2015 Spirit of Freedom Award is a fitting tribute to her service.

Cynthia Gentry, Lenore: Over the past four years, Cynthia Gentry, known for her kind heart and caring nature, has devote more than 1,200 hours of service to veterans. The Idaho State Veterans Home--Lewiston, where she works in the library and reads newspapers and stories to residents, nominated her for this award.

Cynthia is recognized as always putting the needs of others ahead of herself. Additionally, her love for serving veterans inspires her service. Her work is making a big difference in the lives of those who are blessed to know her, and I am honored to recognize Cynthia Gentry with the 2015 Spirit of Freedom Award.

Sylvia Goetz, Kimberly: Sylvia Goetz is being honored for her efforts to assist veterans over the past more than seven years. Sylvia is coordinator for the Magic Valley Honor Guard and the Veterans Health Commission. The Veterans of Foreign War Post 2136 nominated Sylvia for the 2015 Spirit of Freedom Award.

Her desire to give back to the veterans and community and to improve the veterans cemetery inspired Sylvia to volunteer to serve veterans. She crocheted more than 200 afghans and hats for residents of the Boise VA Medical Center. Sylvia Goetz gives generously of her time and abilities to brighten the lives of veterans and their families. Hopefully, Sylvia gets a sense of the gratitude for her exemplary service through the 2015 Spirit of Freedom Award.

Ron Gray, Clarkston, WA: The Marine Corps League nominated Ron Gray for this award, as he is extremely active assisting veterans in the Lewiston area. Ron has been the President of the Lewis & Clark Valley Veterans Council and volunteers at the Idaho State Veterans Home--Lewiston. Ron also assists with funeral details.

Ron served in the U.S. Marine Corps during the Vietnam War before joining the Merchant Marines. After more than 41 years in the Merchant Marine, Ron retired as a Captain and has been active for 10 years with the Marine Corps League. Some of the efforts he has been instrumental in include assisting with Toys for Tots and heading up the rifle detail and color guard for 80 to 100 veterans’ funerals per year. He also plays cards with veterans at the home, takes them fishing, to the fair and parades. He also served as Commandant for the Marine Corps League, Department of Idaho and Commander for his local VFW post. This is just a portion of the activities Ron has assisted with to support veterans. Ron is known for always working to honor veterans and praising them for what they have done. Ron’s wife, VJ, is also involved with this effort, as she sings for veterans. Ron has two sons. Ron Gray’s efforts to honor his fellow veterans for their service to our nation are admirable, and I welcome the opportunity to express gratitude for his service through presenting him with the 2015 Spirit of Freedom Award.

Suzanne Millbach, Hayden: Suzanne Millbach is known for never tiring from helping those around her. The VFW Auxiliary 889 nominated her for this award noting her passion for helping veterans. Service to our nation runs deep in Suzanne’s roots. Numerous family members, including her father, grandfather and uncles, have served our nation. Veterans hold a very special spot in her heart, and she has served veterans for more than 45 years.

Suzanne has a very giving spirt and loves to see the smiles she brings to veterans’ faces when she is able to help. She is the type of volunteer who does not need to be asked. She steps in to help where needed. The list of activities Suzanne has been involved with to help veterans is long and includes fixing up homes for homeless veterans, serving in leadership roles for many veterans organizations and leading a community garden effort to provide veterans with fresh vegetables. She wrote, “I grew up sitting on the laps of these brave men listening to their stories. It was years later that I was told by some of these soldiers that just the simple innocent act of a child listening to them, had a tremendous impact on their recovery from some of the trauma witnessed and inflicted. It was through that I had begun to realize any act of kindness no matter how small has the potential to make a large difference.” Thank you, Suzanne Millbach, for the immense amount of good you are doing. The kindness you give is greatly appreciated, and presenting you with the 2015 Spirit of Freedom Award is an honor.

Stewart Portela, Firth: The Vietnam Veterans of America Idaho State Council nominated Stewart Portela for the 2015 Spirit of Freedom Award for his more than 20 years of service to his fellow veterans. Stewart, who enjoys the friendships he has acquired through the years of associating with veterans of all ages, works to honor the legacy of those who have served our nation.

He is acknowledged for organizing outstanding Veterans Day programs and making sure that every veteran is recognized for their service. He has written books about U.S. wars, maintains a “Veterans Photo Wall” at the Firth High School and volunteers to read the names of those who served at ceremonies honoring veterans. Stewart is a teacher at Firth High School and has taught his students to have a great respect for all veterans. He also has helped at annual picnics, assisted with the Wounded Warrior Project and organizes a trip to Washington, DC, for students and adults to visit the Vietnam War Memorial and Arlington Cemetery. Stewart Portela goes out of his way to pay fitting tribute to those who have served our nation. He ensures that their selfless service is valued and remembered and that future generations understand the magnitude of this service. He is a valued member of the community, and presenting him with the 2015 Spirit of Freedom Award is an honor.

Gordon “Gordy” Shroll, Chubbuck: For the past four years, Gordy Shroll, a U.S. Air Force veteran, has volunteered at the Idaho State Veterans Home--Pocatello, which nominated him for this award. Each month, Gordy assists with outings, swim exercise, special events and resident visits. He is loved at the home where he brings and understanding, fellowship and love to veterans. He stated, “It makes his day to be volunteering at the home.” Gordy is known for having a great way of bringing out a smile or laughter from the residents.

Gordy and his wife, Deborah Foley, who also volunteers at the home, are described as an amazing couple and that it is rare to see one without the other. Staff at the home say, “When they come into the home, we know we’re in for a great day.” A fond memory of some of the joy he brought to others was when he surprised a resident, who also loved to ride motorcycles, with a ride on Gordy’s motorcycle for the resident’s birthday. I hope receiving the 2015 Spirit of Freedom Award can give Gordy a sense of the gratitude felt by many for the joy he brings to others and his giving spirit.

Laurie Weatherby, Kuna: The Idaho State Veterans Home--Boise nominated Laurie for this honor for long-time assistance to veterans. She is a Junior U.S. History and Senior Government teacher at Kuna High School. Laurie has volunteered at the home for more than 8 years. She has helped with the home’s Veterans Day program and Winter Ball. For more than 10 years, she has also organized Veterans Day assemblies at Emmett and Kuna High Schools.

Laurie, who loves being able to give back to the men and women who have given so much, says, “If it were not for veterans, their families and their sacrifices, my dreams, as well as the nation’s dreams could not come true.” Laurie has been married to the love of her life, BJ, for 21 years, and they have a 12-year-old daughter, Courtney. Laurie is a great asset to the community and an inspiration to others. Recognizing Laurie with the 2015 Spirit of Freedom Award is an honor.