By: Pauline Fitzpatrick
The month of November is dedicated to honoring those who served in the military and armed forces. As November begins, the American Red Cross Mid Florida Chapter would like to recognize those who served in the military and serve in our communities. This coming Veteran’s Day, November 11, is a time to celebrate the brave men and women who served in our military. Their dedication and courage have helped protect America. The American Red Cross supports our military members and veterans during natural disasters and emergencies by providing assistance.
For Vince Colotti, a Navy veteran, Red Cross was a way of him giving back to the community. Colotti served in the United States Navy Reserve for 5 years as a “spook”. Spooks were navy intelligence officers who secured and intercepted foreign communications. After retiring, Colotti decided to use his free time in a meaningful way. He started volunteering for Red Cross doing smoke alarm installations and managing supplies for families in need after disasters. Currently, he is working on Operation Holiday Cheer. This event provides food, toiletries, and Christmas themed goods to deployed service members in the middle east.
Hank Charpentier joined the Navy Reserve in April of 1968 as an officer. After 2 years in the Navy Reserve, Charpentier switched to the Naval Air Force for active duty. Charpentier was a plane captain performing preflight and post flight activities on F-8 Crusaders and A4 Skyhawks for squadron VC-8. Charpentier says that the Navy gave him the foundation for his later education in communications. Charpentier is a part of DCS and RDTO at the Mid Florida Red Cross Chapter. As part of this, Charpentier manages disaster preparedness, response, and recovery by handing out kits of relief items while also packing and handing out food after disasters. He also helps victims after disasters by immediate support to those in emergencies.
Hank Charpentier pictured here third from left during April recognition event
Colotti and Charpentier along with numerous other veterans in our community strive to make a difference in others’ lives and give support that is needed, especially during disasters where times get tough with little resources. Their service shows how veterans can continue to serve others even when their military service has ended. Through Red Cross, they use their valuable skills from the military to help others in need. Whether that is preparing for disasters, providing food and supplies, or helping others on how to keep their homes safe, these volunteers show that serving our country comes in different forms. With them and many others, their contributions help strengthen the Red Cross community.
This November, thank the veterans who have served in our community. Veterans day is an opportunity to show appreciation for veterans. The American Red Cross is grateful for all the veterans who continue to serve in our community giving their time and skills to help others.
We welcome and appreciate feature writer, Pauline Fitzpatrick, who recently joined our Mid-Florida youth volunteer team. By combining her interest in storytelling with a desire to serve, Pauline has helped bring attention to the journeys of Veterans, Vince and Hank who continue to answer the call to help others.
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