USO Sigonella 2019 Volunteer of the Year: MA1 Matthew Whaley

MA1 Matt Whaley began volunteering with USO Sigonella in March 2019 and since completing initial volunteer training, he has accumulated more than 192 hours of service during the year, with more than 145 of those hours coming in the last four months of the year. However, selection as USO Sigonella Volunteer of the Year is more than just about the number of hours, though this effort by Matt is impressive. Selection is also a recognition of demonstrated leadership, reliability and communications, a positive attitude towards service and the embodiment of the USO core values. All of these are qualities that Matt has consistently displayed throughout his service through the USO.

Matt is originally from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania and is part of NAS Sigonella Security (Physical Security). He was previously recognized as the USO Sigonella Volunteer of the Month for August 2019 and in the ten months he has been volunteering, he has become a regular on a variety of volunteer shifts, including Rotator Flight Support (both the late night and early – 0330 – morning), Waffle Sundays, Service Member of the Quarter preparations and event, Family Game Nights, and other special events. A self-starter, Matt easily assumes a leadership role when needed and is constantly vigilant for areas of hospitality that need attention and takes care of them without needing to be told. He has also been a referral source for several new volunteers.

Thank you, Matt, for all of your efforts in 2019 to make the lives of fellow service members and their families better, keeping them connected to family home and country while both they and you are stationed here in Sigonella, far from home. Your efforts are truly appreciated and are making a difference in the lives of others.