MARINE CORPS AIR STATION CHERRY POINT, N.C. – At any given time, Sgt. Michael Brawn is responsible for teaching more than 30 Navy and Marine students the ins and outs of aviation ordnance maintenance.

Despite his busy schedule, the Center for Naval Aviation Technical Training instructor found time to volunteer more than 320 hours of his free time to the local community.

Brawn received the Service Person of the Quarter Award from the Carteret County Chamber of Commerce Military Affairs Committee Oct. 26 in Atlantic Beach, N.C.

He has dedicated his time to helping coach a local youth soccer league, Morehead City Elementary Mentoring Program, helped set up dances at assisted living homes, and volunteered with the Special Olympics.

“I love volunteering and giving back to the community,” said Brawn. “The community does so much for us, so I think as Marines we should all give back to the community by volunteering and showing support for them in any way we can.”

Sgt. Maj. Jeffrey V. Dagenhart, the sergeant major of CNATT, presented Brawn with the award, thanking him for all his hard work.

“Sgt. Brawn is an outstanding Marine and outstanding (noncommissioned officer),” said Dagenhart. “He works hard every day and always does his best both on and off duty.”

Brawn also volunteers free time with the Single Marine Program. His favorite part about volunteering is when it involves the local youth.

Brawn said he has learned a lot from volunteering, like the importance of showing the community appreciation for all the work they do for the military.

“Having a strong involvement with the local community is important,” said Brawn. “Cherry Point and the local community are one community to me, and I want to have a strong influence on my community. I am going to continue volunteering my free time because only good can come from it, and it’s the right thing to do.”

Connected Media