Fort Knox first military post to host Kentucky Alliance of Boys & Girls Clubs annual hall of fame banquet

FORT KNOX, Ky. — Calling it a historical first, the Kentucky Alliance of Boys & Girls Clubs hosted its annual hall of fame banquet at a military installation Sept. 24.

Several organizers and leaders agreed it was fitting that Fort Knox be the location.

“I saw firsthand today some incredible programs here,” said Wally Graffen, vice president of Midwest Region Boys & Girls Clubs of America. “For the 300-plus children that come through here each day, this site is just phenomenal.”

Fort Knox hosted the Boys & Girls Clubs of America (BGCA) Kentucky Area Council, Hall of Fame, and All-Staff Training, bringing together traditional and military-affiliated Boys & Girls Clubs from across the Commonwealth.

The banquet, held at Saber & Quill, was the culminating event. At the start, a video was played of Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear praising the statewide program managers for their many sacrifices and mastery of critical programs that help provide a safe, encouraging and supportive place for children who need it.

“I thank each of you for helping Kentucky kids live happier and healthier lives,” Beshear said. “You’re doing more than helping one child or family. You’re creating a brighter future for generations.”

After Beshear’s remarks, Graffen called up Fort Knox Garrison Commander Col. David Holstead and Garrison Senior Enlisted Advisor Command Sgt. Maj. Alex Licea and presented them with a proclamation declaring Sept. 24 Kentucky Boys & Girls Clubs Day.

Holstead confessed he didn’t know much about the program prior to sitting on the board of a Military Youth of the Year competition in the fall of last year. It was then that he realized the power of encouraging teens to excel.

“I left that night – so moved. I heard stories … that moved me to tears,” said Holstead. “At the same time, I saw presentations that showed competence in these young kids that I could never have done at that age. I can’t even do that now. They were unbelievable.

“Being a military child is not easy – I have three of them myself. I’ve watched them struggle; I watched them grow. So, for the Boys & Girls Club on behalf of Fort Knox, I just thank you so much for everything you do for us.”

Among this year’s Hall of Fame recipients was Jodi Stewart, administrative assistant at Devers Middle School and Teen Center. She has worked with Army youth at Devers for 28 years.

“This truly has never been just a job. It’s been a privilege, a challenge, an adventure, a collection of memories, and most of all, a family,” said Stewart. “For that, I am grateful.”

Another first at the banquet was the enactment of a new award – the Kentucky Area Council Alumni of the Year award.

The award is given to a young man or woman who participated in the program and later excelled in giving back to the program. Arthur McKnight, from the Hopkinsville Boys & Girls Club, earned the honor.

Graffen said the high level of care, attention and encouragement of Kentucky children was on full display at the banquet.

“Kentucky has a whole unique family feel to it,” said Graffen. “All the clubs work together as a family because they know they all have an impact on the state. I don’t have this type of atmosphere in most of the states I work with.

“Fort Knox is a great part of that family. They have been absolutely wonderful to us.”

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