Success

Tinker Combined Federal Campaign key workers react to Oklahoma City Air Logistics Center Commander Maj. Gen. Loren Reno’s happy response when told the base had met its campaign goal early. Pictured with Gen. Reno in his office are, from left, Larry Marlatt, loaned executive; Capt. David Guy, loaned executive; Natalie Jenne, auditor; David Hutchison, CFC support staff; Col. Tracy Tynan, CFC coordinator; Patti Ripple, commander’s chief of staff; and Carol Bowman, CFC treasurer. (Air Force photo/Margo Wright)

Tinker’s 2008 CFC a success for charity

Published Nov. 20, 2008
By Brandice J. Armstrong
Tinker Public Affairs

TINKER AIR FORCE BASE, Okla., -- Sir Winston Churchill once said, "We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give."

The Tinker community gave more than $1.84 million to the 2008 Central Oklahoma Combined Federal Campaign, the only military-authorized solicited fundraising event. Approximately 100 people celebrated the efforts of organizers and contributors Nov. 14 at the 2008 Department of Defense's CFC Award ceremony, held at the Tinker Club.

"I am so proud of the giving, caring nature of all of our people," said Maj. Gen. Loren Reno, Oklahoma City Air Logistics Center commander. "Even though this year's economy took a downturn, they showed they have a big heart and gave so generously."

During the 30-minute ceremony, General Reno, on behalf of the installation, received the Norma L. Moore Award "in recognition of excellence in the Central Oklahoma CFC" for 2008. Tinker's DOD employees also won in 1999 and 2000. Other past awardees include employees of the Federal Aviation Administration's Mike Monroney Center and U.S. Postal Service.

"Please know you are a leader in the federal community and as the director for CFC, it is my privilege to recognize the outstanding efforts you have made for our community and for non-profits worldwide," said Kitt Letcher, director of the CFC for central Oklahoma. Several key participants and units were also recognized. Among them were the 18 "early bird organizations" -- units that surpassed their goals before the set deadline.

Officials also recognized the 16 top-performer organizations such as the 76th Maintenance Wing that raised more than $730,000 and the 448th Supply Chain Management Wing that raised more than $143,000.

Before the end of the ceremony, General Reno presented his commander coins to nearly 40 participants who were part of the CFC support staff, CFC loaned executives or CFC outstanding performers.

"Thank you for your generosity, hard work and leadership by the people in this room and who have come across the stage," General Reno said. "When we give, we all win -- our community, our nation, our world and those who depend on our generosity."

The CFC is open to military members, civilian personnel and military-affiliated organizations. Throughout the world, there are more than 300 programs that receive money from CFC.