The eagles gathered for lunch.

Known for its keen eyes, courage and strength, the eagle is a perfect symbol for the level and strength of volunteerism in the surrounding communities that support Joint Base Lewis-McChord.

To celebrate this spirit of giving back, an inaugural Ranger newspaper Heroes Lunch took place last Thursday at the Great American Casino to honor eight individuals and organizations noted for their volunteerism.

USAA sponsored the event; The Ranger and NW Airlifter hosted the lunch.

Co-sponsors were the University of Phoenix, Brandman University, Navy Federal Credit Union, and Grand Canyon University.

"This lunch is a great way for us to give back, to show once again our support for those who support the Joint Base Lewis-McChord community," said Madonna Hanna, co-owner of Executive Massage and one of the event's supporting sponsors.

Other supporting sponsors were America's Credit Union, Pacific Medical/US Family Health, Sprint, Northwest Float, Veterans Lending Group, Mountain View Funeral Home, Lakewood's Best Western Motor Inn, Edward Jones, and Cascade Eye and Skin Center.

"I have heard it said for years that this area steadfastly supports the troops," commented Ken Swarner, owner and publisher of The Ranger newspaper, during introductory remarks.

"It is true, and the individuals and organizations honored here today are the reason why this community is so well known for its support."

Eight individuals and organizations from the local area were recognized for their voluntary contributions to the JBLM community.

Swarner pointed out that while there are a lot of award ceremonies for those "in" the military, there are not many events that recognize and honor those civilian volunteers and organizations that support the JBLM community.

The idea for the luncheon began as a topic at a staff meeting last summer and soon morphed into a survey.

Overwhelmed by the positive request for nominations, Swarner pointed out that the results showed just how diverse and deep the support network for the JBLM community is in the South Sound area.

"We just wanted to thank those who make the sacrifice of time and effort and money for those who serve," Swarner said.

For one of the honorees, the recognition came as a complete surprise.

"Oh my gosh!" exclaimed Denise Dhane when informed of why she had been invited to the luncheon.

"This is the best kind of surprise."

Along with her husband, Dr. John Dhane, Dhane Orthodontic in DuPont, has helped provide gift baskets to returning single soldiers over the past dozen years.

"The volunteers in this community do a tremendous amount of good work," said keynote speaker Amy Tiemeyer.

The president of the Meriwether Lewis Chapter of the Association of the United States Army (AUSA) was also an awardee last week. Tiemeyer pointed out that volunteerism is a powerful force for good.

Over 62 million Americans participate in volunteer activities, which accounts for over 7.7 billion hours of work and $173 billion saved.

"We're the largest gated community around here," said CSM Sam Murphy, 7th Infantry Division.

Noted for his tireless efforts to bridge the gap between the base and the community, Murphy underlined the strength of community ties.

"Making and maintaining those connections between those who serve and those who are served is vital."

Besides Murphy and Dhane, the other honorees were Eric Kantor, Janis Clark, Mary Dague, Kaniya Jenkins, NW Harley Davidson and the Capt. Meriwether Lewis Chapter, AUSA.

All have the strength and character of the eagle trophy they each received.