Tyndall firefighter awarded military 'Big' of the year

  • Published
  • By 2nd Lt. Andrea Valencia
  • 325th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
TYNDALL AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. --  Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Northwest Florida region awarded Staff Sgt. William Wailgum, 325th Civil Engineer Squadron firefighter, with Military 'Big' of the Year.

One military 'Big' is chosen each year out of the five counties Big Brothers Big Sisters serves. His family and the program's board surprised him with the award at the fire station Aug. 24.

"I was shell shocked by the award, "said Sergeant Wailgum. "My wife, mom and station deputy were all in on the surprise."

Wailgum was chosen for the award based on his hard work, motivation and dedication to his 'Little' and the program.

"He works so hard and is a phenomenal Big Brother," said Leanne Schmitt, Bay County Office case manager. "He volunteers even without his 'Little' and is also a huge advocate for the program. We get most of our volunteers via word of mouth, and its people like Will who make that happen."

Sergeant Wailgum has been with his 'Little', Steven, since becoming a part of the program almost three years ago when he arrived at Tyndall.

"Steven is such a great kid, I really lucked out," Sergeant Wailgum said. "He just started his second week of high school and he's in the higher level classes and doing Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps program."

Their time together isn't always about school work; the duo enjoys spending time outside and volunteering with the program.

"We have a good time with sports, movies and spending time on the beach," said Sergeant Wailgum. "We try and go help with the Christmas float and Bowl for Kids, as well as try and be active for the program and recruit for it."