Lt. PAUL SILBER AWARD HONORS PURPLE HEART VETERAN AS AN ACTIVE OUTDOORSMAN AND COMMUNITY ROLE MODEL
SAN ANTONIO – August 17, 2015 – Trinity Oaks, a local nonprofit, has announced the Lt. Paul Silber Award recipient is Gary Renick. The award will be given out on August 22, 2015, at their annual gala and fundraising event at the Leon Springs Dance Hall located outside of San Antonio. The award is named after Lt. Paul Silber, who is a shining example of a dedicated soldier who has overcome the limitations resulting from combat wounds to have a meaningful, rewarding life after war. Additionally, three customized all-terrain “Action TrackChairs” will be given to three disabled veterans to help them access and enjoy the outdoors. The evening’s guest speaker will be General Michael Hagee. The 33rd Commandant of the United States Marine Corps, serving in the Corps highest leadership position from 2003-2006.
Trinity Oaks’ mission is to use the outdoors as a platform to give back and make a difference in the lives of others. “Our hope is to give recognition to Purple Heart veteran’s who continue to serve their community after their return from combat. We look forward to honoring Gary Renick in hopes of bring inspiration to our veterans that there is meaning and success after returning from war.” Trinity Oaks also provides the community with free youth outdoor education programs, all-expense paid veteran “Hero Celebration” events, and in 2014 provided over 325,000 meals to those in need.
About Renick
After completing Airborne jump school amongst 525 soldiers in 1966, Renick was sent to the 173rd Airborne Brigade in Vietnam. Renick served his country in multiple capacities from a 173rd as an infantryman and RTO (radio/telephone operator), a member of the 10th Special Forces Group, 1/321st Artillery as a recon sergeant and assigned to “A” Co. 1/501st Airborne Infantry. During the Tet Offensive, Renick was wounded on March 16, 1968 and again on April 25, 1968. He was then sent to the Navy’s River Section 521 in May, as an artillery forward observer for six PBR boats and 2 PACV (Patrol Air Cushioned Vehicles). Renick ended his time in Vietnam on August 30, 1968.
During Renick’s service in Vietnam, he received the Army Commendation Medal, Air Medal, two Purple Hearts, two Bronze Stars and the Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry with Silver Star.
Renick’s impressive service to country and community did not stop once he was out of the military. Renick is an authority on immigration issues, investigations and government laws and regulations. Renick has coordinated and directed training operations for U.S. and foreign governments and was a key leader for the legacy I&NS in the development of immigration guidelines, policies, procedures and regulations. He continued his service working as a Special Agent and consultant for the Federal Bureau of Investigation, U.S. Department of State, U.S. Border Patrol, the Texas Police, and as a special investigator for Hartford Insurance.
Renick has long been a supporter and volunteer of Texas Paralyzed Veterans Association, Patriot Warrior Foundation, Serve Outdoors, Inc., and Trinity Oaks. Renick grew up hunting and fishing in North Dakota and continues to enjoy these sports in Texas today.
About the award
The award recognizes the outstanding achievement in the areas of service to our country, philanthropy, and will recognize a community member who leads by example to fulfill the mission of Trinity Oaks. Although the recipient’s life must reflect the values of Trinity Oaks, they do not need to have been a participant, volunteer, or previously affiliated with the organizations programs or services.
Recipients of the Lt. Paul Silber Award must meet the following criteria:
- Purple Heart recipient – The Purple Heart is a combat decoration and is awarded to “members of the armed forces of the U.S. who are wounded by an instrument of war in the hands of the enemy”.
- Community volunteer – The award winner will demonstrate consistent volunteerism and service within their community. Participation in a leadership role within a volunteer situation will be given more weight.
- Nature enthusiast and conservationist – Appreciation of nature and a healthy respect for the bounties of our world are a necessary trait for the recipient of this award. Support of a conservation or other natural resource focused organization is highly sought after.
- Trinity Oaks Mission – The recipient of the Lt. Paul Silber Award does not have to be affiliated with Trinity Oaks, but they must demonstrate their personal beliefs are aligned with those of the organization including a respect for nature, participation in our outdoor heritage, as well as an appreciation for God and our great country.
Do you know someone who you believe deserves to win next year’s Lt. Paul Silber award?
Please send nominations including your name, contact information, nominee’s name and how they fit the above criteria to info@trinityoaks.com. The more information you can provide about the nominee’s military service, volunteer experience and general nature, the better idea we will have about them and how closely they fit the criteria.
