Arctic Wolves volunteer at local elementary school

1st Brigade, 11th Airborne Division
Story by Sgt. Michael Blalack

Date: 02.08.2013
Posted: 02.22.2013 16:58
News ID: 102412
Arctic Wolves volunteer at local elementary school

FORT WAINWRIGHT, Alaska - Soldiers from Headquarters Battery, 2nd Battalion, 8th Field Artillery Regiment, 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division, spent the evening of Feb. 8 at the Nordale Elementary school in Fairbanks, Alaska, serving dinner to students and their parents, and afterwards, lending a hand in the set and participating in an arts and crafts event.

“Besides being rewarding in itself, volunteering is a great way to show the community that we’re here to return their support,” said Staff Sgt. Brandon Hiller, retention noncommissioned officer for 2-8 FA, who volunteers regularly at local schools.

During the last few months, the Arctic Wolves have conducted food drives and taken toy donations for the Fairbanks community.

“We love to give back to the community in any way we can,” said Capt. Ladarrian Sherman, Battery Commander of HHB, who stopped by along with HHB 1st Sgt. Johnnie Fields to support their soldiers.

“This is fantastic,” Nordale Principal Brian Powell said. “We really appreciate these soldiers giving their time to be here and do this with us.”

After serving up tacos to the participants, the seven soldiers who volunteered for the event helped set up tables and chairs in the gymnasium for students to build various crafts with their parents and other guests.

“It was a lot of fun,” said Spc. Matthew Berger, the armorer for HHB. “It was great seeing the kids there having fun with their families, and it felt great to help put a smile on their face.”