Soldiers Volunteer at El Paso Animal Shelter | Fort Bliss
The intersection of military service and community engagement took a heartwarming turn in El Paso, Texas, on , as soldiers from the 1st Armored Division volunteered their time at the Humane Society of El Paso. The event, organized by Headquarters and Headquarters Company, Division Sustainment Brigade, saw over 20 soldiers dedicate their day to caring for animals in need, strengthening the unit’s ties with the local community.
For Specialist Mattie Jensen, a utilities equipment repairer with the 1st Armored Division, the opportunity was particularly meaningful. Jensen, who discovered the volunteer event through a work group chat, expressed her deep affection for animals and the sense of peace she finds in their company. “This is amazing for the community,” she said, adding that more frequent volunteer opportunities would have a significant impact. Her enthusiasm stemmed from a personal connection – a history of fostering animals, one of whom eventually became a permanent member of her family.
The volunteer effort resonated particularly strongly with soldiers living in barracks, many of whom lack the opportunity to have pets of their own. The chance to interact with the animals proved to be a welcome respite and a source of joy. Jensen observed that many of the volunteers were simply happy to spend time with the dogs, offering them affection and companionship.
The soldiers’ contributions were multifaceted. They distributed toys to the dogs, engaging in playful interactions that visibly excited the animals. The arrival of a shopping cart brimming with toys elicited a chorus of happy barks and wagging tails. Each dog received a ball and a rope toy, and Jensen delighted in allowing them to choose their preferred plaything, tossing it for them when they showed interest.
Amidst the playful chaos, Jensen formed a special connection with a small chihuahua named Tommy. She described feeling an immediate kinship with the little dog, allowing him to crawl all over her as his tail wagged furiously. The bond was strong enough that she briefly considered taking Tommy home, but ultimately decided against it, recognizing that her two larger dogs might not interact safely with such a small companion. She prioritized Tommy’s well-being, hoping he would find a loving home where he could thrive.
This act of service highlights the broader benefits of community involvement for both service members and residents. Volunteering at local shelters and organizations provides a tangible way to support El Paso and contribute to the well-being of those in need. The event also offered a practical benefit for the soldiers themselves: the opportunity to accrue hours towards earning the Military Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal.
The Army Community Service (ACS) program serves as a valuable resource for soldiers seeking volunteer opportunities. Every Army base has an ACS program designed to connect service members with local organizations and track their volunteer hours. The Fort Bliss ACS program, accessible online at https://bliss.armymwr.com/programs/army-community-service, provides a convenient platform for soldiers to engage in community service and earn recognition for their contributions.
While the immediate impact of the volunteer day was felt by the animals and staff at the Humane Society of El Paso, the event represents a larger commitment from the 1st Armored Division to fostering strong relationships within the El Paso community. It’s a reminder that service extends beyond the battlefield, encompassing acts of compassion and a dedication to improving the lives of others. The initiative echoes similar efforts across the country, such as the ongoing volunteer work at the City of El Paso Animal Services center by Fort Bliss soldiers through the Better Opportunities for Single Soldiers (BOSS) program, which sees troops walking shelter dogs on the last Saturday of each month.
The story, as reported by Spc. Russell Savage V, underscores the positive impact of military-community partnerships and the personal fulfillment that comes from giving back. It’s a testament to the power of compassion and the enduring bond between soldiers and the communities they serve.