A Person To Count On Extra!

PERHAPS WE FOUND THE REAL NAMESAKE FOR FORT JACKSON: Her name is Cheryl Jackson, who works with soldiers and their families on their deployments and returning to the US.  She's spent more than 30 years helping our unsung heros in uniform.  I thought her Person to Count On Email nomination was pretty neat, and we simply didn't have enough time on TV to read all of it. So, through the magic of the internet, here it is.  Oh, and Cheryl, thanks for your service!!!

Comments: On a day when clouds are looming over head, you can be sure to find rays of sunshine gleaming from the office of Cheryl Frazier-Jackson.

Cheryl has given more than 30 years of her heart to the soldiers and their families of Ft. Jackson.  I have watched her  spend long hours, helping the families of the Army through her office at Army Community Service (ACS).

  Over the years, she has worn many hats:  Parade Coordinator (during the years Ft. Jackson hosted it’s annual parade), Exceptional Family Members Coordinator (where she helps military families who have disabled children/family members), during Desert Storm she was part of the In/Out Processing for soldiers and their families, among other duties.

During Desert Storm, I watched her get up before dawn to help families prepare for the return or the departure of their soldiers.  She formed support groups for the spouses and children left behind during this difficult time.  Cheryl was there to dry the tears of the spouses and children as they waived “goodbye” and she was also there, smiling brightly as she passed out US flags to welcome them home.

The highlight of her work is through the Exceptional Family Members Program (EFMP).  She spends many hours  with families individually making sure they receive the assistance and support they need during difficult times.  Cheryl also works with the group, organizing activities as a way to offer the families enduring the same circumstances, time together.

They travel to the Shriner’s Circus, bowling, water parks and many other activities throughout the year.  She also meets with the group monthly, where education is offered to the families and an opportunity for sharing joys as well as challenges is available.

Cheryl Frazier-Jackson is truly a person to count on.  When she is away from Ft. Jackson, She spends her time serving the people of Wesley United Methodist Church.

They work together feeding and ministering to the homeless monthly.  She also offers her beautiful voice to the WUMC Choir.  She also uses her angelic voice when ever she is called, for weddings, funerals, programs within Ft. Jackson and the surrounding Columbia community.  Every talent God has blessed her with, she uses to lift the spirit of others.

As her daughter, I am so proud of her.  She has been an “angel” to me and so many others.  I have witnessed the transformation of broken spirits being restored through her love and care.

Thank you for all you do to recognize the unsung “heroes” in South Carolina who quietly share their talents and love for their community. - Martinique Scott (daughter of Cheryl Jackson)