By Billie Garner
Garrison Public Affairs Office
Maj. Gen. Randy A. George, commanding general, 4th Infantry Division and Fort Carson, helps Mike Jorgensen don his jacket at the 40th Annual Good Neighbor induction ceremony at the Elkhorn Conference Center March 21, 2018. (Photo by Master Sgt. Casey Nelsen)
Fort Carson leaders and distinguished community and business guests gathered at the Elkhorn Conference Center March 21, 2018, for the 40th Annual Good Neighbor Induction Luncheon to recognize an extraordinary civilian’s contributions to Soldiers and Families.
Maj. Gen. Randy A. George, commanding general, 4th Infantry Division and Fort Carson, hosted a luncheon award ceremony inducting Michael Jorgensen, president and co-owner of the Red Noland Auto Group in Colorado Springs, as the newest member of the Fort Carson Good Neighbor program. Jorgensen received the award in front of friends, family and colleagues.
Jorgensen, a long-time resident of the Pikes Peak region, serves on the Military Affairs Council of the Colorado Springs Chamber and Economic Development Corporation (EDC), as a member and past chair;
Pikes Peak or Bust Rodeo Foundation, as president; Colorado Springs Conservatory, as chairman; Pikes Peak United Way, as treasurer; Colorado State Motor Vehicle Dealer Board, Governor-appointed; and Discover Goodwill Foundation.
“Mike, you have done so much for our Soldiers, Families and even beyond that, you’ve demonstrated an astounding talent for sharing our Army story in such a way to influence changes that have made us stronger as a unit,” said George. “In the Army, we call that being a combat multiplier and Mike, you are one heck of a multiplier. We want you to know that we see your efforts as they ripple through our formation making every day better for our military Families, so thank you.”
The annual event also recognizes all Good Neighbors who continue to make a difference and support Fort Carson as advocates within the surrounding communities.
“It is humbling and an honor to receive this award,” said Jorgensen. “Working with other Good Neighbors ensures Soldiers have what they need. I’ve been part of winning teams, and I am fortunate to have this opportunity to be part of the Good Neighbor, green-jacket team.”
Maj. Gen. Randy A. George, commanding general, 4th Infantry Division and Fort Carson, talks with Good Neighbor Mike Jorgensen, left, and guests at the 40th Annual Good Neighbor induction ceremony at the Elkhorn Conference Center March 21, 2018. (Photo by Master Sgt. Casey Nelsen)
Jorgensen received a glass-etched plaque recognizing his selection, a sport coat embroidered with his name and induction year, a Good Neighbor emblem lapel pin and his photo will now be on permanent display in the foyer of the 4th Inf. Div. Headquarters building. Command Sgt. Maj. Timothy L. Metheny, command sergeant major, 4th Inf. Div. and Fort Carson, assisted with the award presentation.
“Military men and women do so much so we can continue to do what we do,” Jorgensen said. “As a community, we continue to care for our good neighbors at Fort Carson.”
“The (Good Neighbor) program is great to honor those who give so much time, effort and passion to Soldiers and military Families,” said Retired Army Command Sgt. Maj. Keith Klaehn, Association of Defense Communities leader, 2016 Military Affairs Council Chairman and local business owner.
“I have been aware of the Good Neighbor program since 2003 and every year, those who are awarded and what they do for the military community get better and better,” said Robin Wininger, Fort Carson Defense and Veteran Brain Injury Center. “It’s an amazing program.”
From its inception in 1978, the Fort Carson Good Neighbor program continues to foster strong relationships and partners military leaders with the community. The program is designed to recognize one civilian each year from neighboring communities who, through his or her efforts continues to enhance the quality of life for Soldiers and their Families. Good Neighbors are invited to events and ceremonies held on Fort Carson.