BAKER — A couple with almost two decades of service to the Military Order of the Purple Heart are recipients of the organization's Lifetime Achievement Award.
Cmdr. William Everett (Ret.) and his wife, Jacqueline, said in a statement that they are "very surprised, honored, humbled, and proud," following last week's announcement, which recognized their "distinguished and meritorious service" to MOPH.
During the past 15 years, Bill Everett has served the organization in various capacities, as chapter commander, department senior vice commander, chief of staff of the Department of Florida, chief of staff of Region IV, four years as commander of Region IV and national junior vice commander.
Jacqueline Everett has served the MOPH's Ladies Auxiliary in various capacities including chapter president and four years as Region IV president.
"They have both distinguished themselves the past 15 years as a team in extraordinary service to the Military Order of the Purple Heart Department of Florida," a statement read. "Their tireless efforts have brought significant honor and recognition to the members of the Department of Florida, Region IV, as well as the entire Military Order of the Purple Heart."
The award means a lot to Jacqueline Everett, who worked alongside her husband and was his sounding board, "the guiding light, who listened to everything going on and knew how to help other veterans," a statement from the couple said.
This article originally appeared on Crestview News Bulletin: Baker couple receives military order's Lifetime Achievement Award