CLINTON — On May 31, Exelon Corporation held an awards ceremony at Chase Tower, in Chicago.  Local Clinton employee, and AMVET Post #14 member, Robert “Bob” Pakidis was one of six Midwestern (24 nationwide) employees to receive a prestigious merit award.  

Through the volunteer program “Dollars for Doers” the employees earn money for their favorite nonprofit organization.  Those  who volunteer 50 or more hours annually can apply for one of the 24 Employee Volunteer Awards (13 $5,000 Merit Awards, 10 $10,000 Achievement Awards or one $20,000 Excellence Award).  

This year Bob Pakidis captured one of the $5,000 Merit Awards.  For over six years, Bob has contributed to Clinton AMVETS Post #14, which helps meet the needs of Veterans through moral, financial, citizenship and family support.  

The AMVET motto is “Veterans Supporting Veterans.”  Bob a U.S. Navy veteran who, with his son Robert Jr., volunteers with Post #14.  They deliver meals during the holidays to veterans living alone and who don’t receive many visitors.  Bob says there is nothing more rewarding than watching the recipients eyes light up when they arrive with the meals.  

Bob has been involved in almost all activities of Post #14 including fundraisers, working with Boy Scouts on community activities such as flag retirement ceremonies, home visits and the Color/Honor Guard ceremonies. 

Bob was also instrumental in establishing a single fundraising day at Clinton Power Station to benefit the Danville, Illinois Veterans Hospital.  Bob received the 2016-2017 “Post #14 AMVET of the Year” award for his many efforts.  He loves to watch the generations of people working together to make a better life for those who served our country and to support the community.  

Post #14 Commander Marc Rogers was also on hand to receive a plaque commemorating the achievement and the monetary donation to AMVETS Post #14.  Also attending the ceremony from Clinton were Bob’s son Robert and past AMVETS Post #14 Commander Jessie Owens.