Bellevue Mayor Rita Sanders was recently presented the Nebraska National Guard's Distinguished Service Award - Civilian. This award may be awarded to a corporate or non-member of the Nebraska National Guard who shall have been distinguished by outstanding service to the Nebraska National Guard. The performance must be such as to merit recognition for service which is clearly outstanding. Such service must be in support of and/or promotion of the general welfare of the Nebraska National Guard.
The Nebraska National Guard recogninized Mayor Sanders at their Annual Awards Dinner in February and remarked, "As Mayor of Bellevue since 2010, Mayor Rita Sanders has been a strong advocate for Offutt AFB as well as Total Force Integration between Active Duty and the Nebraska National Guard. As Bellevue Mayor, she continues to fight for the best quality of life for all military members, both active and reserve. She remains engaged on issues impacting Soldiers and Airmen on both the federal and state level. She is a key board member on the Offutt Advisory Council, which helps our current members based at Offutt AFB receive the best opportunity to train, fight, and win. Additionally, she was hand-selected by Governor Pete Ricketts to the Nebraska Military Commission. This commission is tasked with helping the state to recruit and retain missions at its military installations. She has proven to be a key partner in our efforts to create the best life for our Nebraska National Guard Soldiers and Airmen."
Mayor Sanders was honored to recieve this prestigous award and accepted it on behalf of the Bellevue Community. Mayor Sanders said, "I am honored to represent a community that is so supportive of the Military and the National Guard and their way of life." Bellevue is a patriotic community that is very proud to be the home of Offutt AFB and we will continue to support the brave men and women who protect our nation."