Carolyn Wainright: North Augusta’s Unsung Hero
North Augusta has a superstar in its midst, and this story is one you’ll want to hear. Meet Carolyn Wainright, a beacon of dedication and service, who has recently taken home the title of “Best of the Best” among auxiliary units throughout South Carolina! The recognition was given at the state conference held in October, and it’s no wonder why – her commitment to American Legion Post 71 Auxiliary is nothing short of inspiring.
A Journey of Service
Carolyn’s journey has been shaped by over 50 years as an Army wife, moving from one community to another and making each place feel like home. From the hustle and bustle of Fort Hood in Texas to the picturesque towns of Germany, she and her husband, Ralph Wainright, have truly seen it all. But their roots have firmly taken hold in North Augusta, where Carolyn has been actively involved in supporting veterans and their families.
Carolyn Price, the President of Unit 71, proudly notes that Carolyn is not only knowledgeable but also a jack of all trades. “She’s good at everything she does,” Price shared. “You could say she can do anything that’s required to be done, and she’s been doing it for a long time.” Talk about a glowing recommendation!
From Member to Leader
Currently serving as the Unit Secretary, Carolyn is a whirlwind of activity. Her roles range from keeping minutes at meetings to leading various committees focused on important areas like education and community outreach. Her hard work doesn’t go unnoticed; she tirelessly dedicates her time and effort to various initiatives, including Wreaths Across America, where she helps decorate veterans’ graves during the holiday season.
And let’s not forget about the fun! Carolyn is known for her culinary skills, lending a helping hand during events like the post’s annual Christmas gathering and the much-loved spaghetti night. Her warm smile and willingness to jump in wherever help is needed make her a treasured member of the community.
A Community Pillar
In recognition of her exceptional service, Carolyn recently clocked in an impressive 1,715 miles of travel, donating $1,305 and dedicating 195 hours of service to the American Legion in just a short time. These figures aren’t just numbers; they reflect her unwavering commitment to serving a staggering 351 veterans in our local community.
Support for Education
But Carolyn’s outreach doesn’t stop with veterans. She also cares deeply about the future generation. Her involvement includes providing apple baskets for teachers and staff at North Augusta Elementary School, a neighbor to the American Legion’s post. It’s heartwarming to see someone so dedicated to not just honoring the past but investing in our youth’s future.
Roots and Wings
So how did this remarkable woman end up in North Augusta? Carolyn and Ralph first met on a blind date in Germersheim, Germany, when Ralph was serving in the Army. Carolyn, originally from Nashua, New Hampshire, was just visiting but quickly found herself drawn into the military life. Their love story spans decades and locations, leading them from military bases all over the globe to the welcoming community of North Augusta.
A Lasting Legacy
Through her tireless efforts and passion for service, Carolyn Wainright embodies the spirit of community and patriotism. Her story is one of dedication, love, and service, inspiring many around her. Whether rallying for veterans or providing support for the youth, Carolyn’s heart knows no bounds.
So next time you see Carolyn around North Augusta, remember that you’re looking at a champion of service who believes in making our community a better place for everyone!
