Maxwell Airman receives 2016 American Legion Spirit of Service Award Published June 29, 2016 By Senior Airman Tammie Ramsouer 42nd ABW Public Affairs 6/27/16—MAXWELL AIR FORCE BASE, Ala.— -- The Maxwell Air Force Base Office of Special Investigations, Detachment 405, will soon be sending one of its own to receive a unique award. Special Agent Russell Taylor learned recently he is the 2016 recipient of the American Legion Spirit of Service award. The award is given annually to only one member of each branch of the DoD for outstanding volunteer service performed within the local community. According to his commander, out of the many Airmen who submitted a package within the Air Force, SA Taylor, represented what the American Legion Spirit of Service Award stands for. “Special Agent Taylor exemplified the spirit of this award, which focused on public service,” said SA Helen Stewart, Detachment 405 Commander. “Not only does Special Agent Taylor excel at his job, he dedicates so much of his free time in service to the community and others. In that spirit he was also awarded the Military Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal this year, based on more than 400 hours of community service.” “My commander heard about the award and felt I was a good fit,” said SA Taylor. The first time SA Taylor knew of his selection was when he won the award at the regional level. “At that point I knew I would be competing at the Air Force Office of Special Investigations level, but I never imagined I would win at the Air Force level,” Taylor said. SA Taylor has been volunteering since he was stationed at Mountain Home Air Force Base, Idaho. He volunteered for the Susan G. Komen foundation and Special Olympics. He currently volunteers for many organizations such as the Capitol Area Adult Literacy Council, the Montgomery Dragon Boat Festival and Child Protect. “I enjoy unique volunteer opportunities that benefit multiple non-profit organizations,” SA Taylor said. His passion to begin volunteering was to meet new and amazing people, he said. “I enjoy having military friends, but I think it’s important to have a strong group of civilian friends connected to the community,” SA Taylor said. “I have been lucky enough to have some great friends that help me get involved, and my leadership has consistently supported a strong work and community relationship.” Taylor is set to travel to Cleveland, Ohio in late August to receive his award. The first Spirit of Service Award was first presented to active duty service members in 2000.