Chief Guiterrez honored for volunteer service

  • Published
  • By John Parker
  • Staff Writer
Retired Chief Master Sgt. Jesse Guiterrez gives one reason why he has volunteered at Tinker Air Force Base for more than 20 years.

"Payback," he said. "The military's been kind to me, so it's a good chance to say thanks to the military. I'm paying it back."

Chief Guiterrez was honored Tuesday during the 72nd Air Base Wing staff meeting for his volunteer service, the majority of that time has been at the 72nd Medical Group pharmacy.

Col. Stephanie Wilson, 72nd ABW commander, thanked the chief for more than 60 years of service to the Air Force that included over 20 years in active duty and over 20 years as a civil service employee.

"It's my honor to give you my commander's coin for excellence because you have exhibited excellence in all that you do," Colonel Wilson said.

Early on, the chief worked in the Retiree Activities Office, but moved to the clinic pharmacy to serve a larger number of his fellow retirees, as well as the active duty community, said retired Chief Master Sgt. Lorraine Caddy, the RAO director.

"The pharmacy staff said that when they think of the word 'service,' Chief Guiterrez is the first name that comes to mind," Chief Caddy said.

Chief Guiterrez has racked up more than 4,163 hours assisting pharmacy staff. His 513 hours of volunteer work last year saved approximately $10,260 in personnel costs, Chief Caddy said.

Chief Guiterrez also helps the Oklahoma City Food Bank by visiting local grocery stores to ask for donations for needy families.

"He serves with such dedication that one would think he was a paid staff member," Chief Caddy said. "He also networks with other volunteers and patients to recruit new volunteers to help serve both the active duty and retired community. Chief Guiterrez is an example of the retiree motto, 'Still Serving'."