The American Red Cross Organization honoring a Fentress County man for 45 years of volunteer service for military service members and their families.
Red Cross Volunteer Billy Jennings Sr. said he serves in a position known as Aid to Military Families (AFES). Jennings said he has owned a funeral home since 1977 and recognized a specific need to help verify family emergencies so soldiers stationed overseas could be granted leave.
“I like helping people,” Jennings said. “I feel like that’s what God put us here for is to help each other. So, I enjoy this kind of work, even though it doesn’t pay anything, it’s good work.”
Jennings said his primary role involves verifying the deaths of family members to ensure the military can officially notify service members. Jennings said this process allows soldiers to return home from international locations like Germany in time for funeral services.
“Without the Red Cross worker, those that’s in military would not get to come home,” Jennings said.
Jennings said he also coordinates blood drives in Jamestown and Fentress County some every two months. Jennings said he has been working with the Red Cross on these blood drives for approximately 10 years.
Even without pay, Jennings said he is motivated to continue his acts of selflessness. At nearly 80 years old, Jennings said attributes his long-term commitment and resiliency to being raised with a focus on being affectionate toward family members.
“Well, seeing people get what they need,” Jennings said. “Like if a wife’s having a baby she needs the husband there too. And if we can get him home or if a serviceman’s grandfather passes away he needs to be here for the family to help support with them, so that’s my opinion.”
Jennings said his main objective throughout his decades of service has remained helping people in vulnerable situations. All the while, Jennings said he has leaned on his faith and encouraged others to do the same.
“Well, attend church, main thing, and seek God’s leadership, guidance in your life,” Jennings said.
Jennings said he plans to continue his volunteer efforts and service to the community for as long as he can.
