An Elk Creek man is among 35 recipients of the 2015 Lieutenant Governor’s Service Award, which recognizes Missouri veterans who provide exemplary volunteer services to their communities.
Russell Olewinski, who served in the Air Force from 1964-’86, is a volunteer at the Texas County Food Pantry. Along with driving a truck back and forth to Springfield for food, Olewinski is also the Salvation Army bell ringing coordinator in Cabool. He was nominated for the award by food pantry director Bennie Cook.
Winners will receive an official declaration from the lieutenant governor and will be recognized later this year at a banquet in their honor at the capitol in Jefferson City.
“This year we had an exceptional group of nominations, and I look forward to meeting these hometown heroes and getting to know them a little better,” said Lt. Gov. Peter Kinder. “It truly is a honor to be able to shine the spotlight on their stories of sacrifices and service to their communities. Not only did these veterans answer the call to serve their country, but all our nominees continue to inspire others back home with their volunteerism.”
Olewinski came to Texas County in 2009 after retiring from Kansas City.