Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. believed that community service, in all its forms, was imperative. He felt that committing oneself to their neighbors could break down barriers that have historically separated communities and bring people together.
In his 1968 “Drum Major Instinct” speech, Dr. King said “You don’t have to have a college degree to serve. You don’t have to make your subject and verb agree to serve. You only need a heart full of grace and a soul generated by love.”
The USS Midway Museum again celebrated the importance of community giving during its 12th annual Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. commemoration dinner.
In the spirit of Dr. King’s legacy, the museum honored two of San Diego’s quiet heroes for their passionate dedication to community advocacy and commitment to supporting military veterans.
Dee Folse and Joann Fields were both honored with this year’s Outstanding Community Service Award. This award distinguishes those who are deeply involved in a variety of community outreach programs.
“I am truly humbled to receive the Outstanding Community Service Award, especially with Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s name attached to it,” said Dee, a board member of Honor Flight San Diego. “It’s so important to give back to our community and to make it better for everyone. Each of us should feel a sense of ownership because every person can play a role. Celebrating Martin Luther King Jr. Day each year matters because it reminds us that the ideals he stood for, equality, dignity and service to others, are not just historical ideas. They are values that a society and community has to actively practice and renew every generation.”
This year’s Midway Bridge Builder Award, which recognizes individuals and organizations that exemplify the core values of the museum, which include community service and working to improve relationships, understanding, cooperation and inclusion among various ethnic communities, honored San Diego civic leader Mark Cafferty.
“To say that I felt honored almost seems inadequate,” said Mark, who is the president and CEO of the San Diego Regional Economic Development Corporations. “To be recognized at an event remembering the life and work of Dr. King was a bucket list item I didn’t even know I had. He has been a hero to me since the day I first learned who he was. Those who have inspired me the most in my life were inspired by him. He is the reason we build bridges. Giving back to the communities around us and the communities that nurtured us is the most important way to honor those who supported us the most.”
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