Washington’s Parent Teacher Association (PTA) gave Cryptological Technician (administration) 1st Class (SW) Anthony Stallings a Golden Acorn award Friday, February 25 at 6 p.m. in the ballroom at Bangor Plaza.

The PTA gives Golden Acorn awards annually to people who have given exemplary volunteer service to children and youth in their school community.  Stallings received the award for his work with children at Ridgetop Junior High School (RIJH) and is the first one in the schools history to receive the award as a Personal Excellence through Cooperative Education (PECE) volunteer.

PECE is a program that involves Sailors helping school children with tutoring, mentoring and other facets of childhood development.

“Stallings dedicated many hours to children at RIJH,” said Ridgetop Junior High Volunteer Coordinator Heather Meryhew.  “He chaperoned dances, helped with free eye exams, has a mentorship program, helps with Parents on Patrol and is our volunteer Girl’s Basketball Coach.”

Stallings is in his third year of volunteering at the school and enjoys working there on an almost daily basis.

“I adore the friendship with the staff and students and get great satisfaction out of trying to make a difference,” said Stallings. “The more time someone spends in the school environment, the more it makes them want to be involved in the education and early influence of the students. The more time students see a volunteer dedicate to them, the more likely they are to grow up and do the same.”

Stallings selfless attitude helped earn him the award.

“Stallings is always willing to help any child,” said Meryhew. “His dedication is priceless. He deserves this honor because he gives many hours for the sake of children. He is a dedicated father, volunteer and service man. He loves this nation and supports every aspect of life for children.”

According to Stallings, volunteering for programs like PECE is important for military members.

“As representatives of the Armed Forces we set one of the best model examples of success and discipline,” said Stallings. “The students respect that and they genuinely appreciate the personal attention. This program is as successful as the command support and the dedication of the PECE coordinator and the school sponsored. I’ve been lucky to have outstanding command and school support. It’s been a perfect marriage.”

The Golden Acorn Award was first established in 1937 to recognize and honor PTA members for their continued and dedicated contributions. The PTA has grown steadily through the years with strong dedication from all those involved. 

The Golden Acorn Awards Ceremony is now combined with the Founders Day Celebration at RIJH to pay tribute to past and present volunteers who have dedicated themselves for the benefit of children.

For more information on how to get involved with PECE, contact Chief Quartermaster William Hibbs at or by calling (360) 315-4091.