Mt. Calvary Member Honored for Community Service

Story by LaTasha Hewitt

The U.S. Army recently recognized Sendry O. Pittman, Sr., a deacon at the Mt. Calvary church in Williamsburg, Va., for his dedication to volunteering. In recognition of his 30-plus years of serving his community, the Red Cross Volunteer Program was renamed the Sendry Pittman Volunteer Program. The ceremony took place at the U.S. Army Transportation Museum on the grounds of Fort Eustis, Va.

Upon retiring from the U.S. Army in 1968, Pittman operated a regional family transportation company for 31 years, and served the community as the president of the Forest Glen Citizens Civic Association. After relocating to the Newport News, Va., area, he began 19 years of voluntary service in various capacities, 14 as an American Red Cross volunteer coordinator for the McDonald Army Health Center.

Pittman attributes his propensity for service to his parents, whom he watched assist others throughout his life. He also gives the U.S. Army credit for opening his eyes to the needs of others. “So many doors were opened for me, and I owe it to others to give back.”

At the age of 88, Pittman intends on continuing to volunteer as long as he is able. “I’m dedicated to living a life of service to our church, our community and mankind,” he says.