Foley, Ala. — (OBA) —  An Elberta woman has been named the American Legion Auxiliary Volunteer of the Year for the State of Alabama. Judi Wheat received the honor at a recent district meeting at American Legion Post 99 in Foley. Alabama State American Legion Auxiliary President Carla Biniecki presented the award. Family members shared the news on Facebook, noting that the award came as a complete surprise to Wheat.

Biniecki praised Wheat's accomplishments during the ceremony, calling the nomination submission "phenomenal." She said Wheat is now being considered for the national American Legion Auxiliary Member of the Year title. Wheat has already advanced to the third round of judging at the national level. "She has already passed through the third round of judging at nationals, and she's holding her own by her accomplishments," Biniecki said.

Wheat's daughter, Shelley Patterson, posted on Facebook about the honor, expressing pride in her mother's recognition. She wrote that her mother would likely insist that others deserved the award more than she did. According to the post, Wheat has spent years quietly devoted to helping veterans without seeking attention for her efforts. Her daughter described her mother's compassion as simply part of who she is every day.

Much of what drives Wheat's service is her memory of her late husband, Don Wheat. Don served as a Sergeant in the U.S. Air Force from April 1969 to February 1973 during the Vietnam War era and was an active member of the American Legion. He passed away on September 21, 2023. Everything Judi does in service to veterans is done in his honor.

Much of Wheat's volunteer work centers on William F. Green Veterans Home, where she has built a lasting presence among the residents. She organizes monthly Bingo games for veterans at the Foley Post and coordinates themed events and parties throughout the year. At Christmastime, she helps coordinate and organize a Christmas store that allows veterans to select and give gifts to their loved ones at no cost to the veteran. Her commitment to the home goes well beyond scheduled events, reflecting a deep, personal investment in the well-being of Alabama's veterans.

Wheat's daughter, Shelley, said the award means more than a tally of volunteer hours logged over the years. She wrote that it represents the genuine care and love her mother has shown to veterans and those around her throughout her life of service. The post ended with heartfelt congratulations and an expression of deep pride in her mother's dedication to Alabama's veteran community.