Heroes Homestead Recognizes Loon Lake Resident with Community Leadership Award

In a ceremony aimed at celebrating “extraordinary service” and “selfless dedication,” Heroes Homestead, together with Lithia Auto Group and Camp Chevrolet, bestowed the Community Leadership Award upon Loon Lake resident Sharon Russell on Nov. 16. According to organizers, the award recognizes individuals whose actions “embody the highest ideals of civic engagement, inspiring others to persevere in service and uphold the values that strengthen our communities and nation.”

Organizers said Sharon Russell’s life is a “testament to duty, resilience, and joyful service rooted in profound military heritage.” Born at Fort Ord, Calif., she spent her formative years moving between the United States and Germany, following her father’s “distinguished career” as a U.S. Army combat engineer. “Embracing each new duty station with enthusiasm, Sharon absorbed the cultural richness of European and Asian tours, shaped by her parents’ deep sense of ambassadorial responsibility and patriotic commitment,” organizers said.

Her own legacy of service began with active duty in the United States Army during Operation Desert Storm, where she rose to the rank of captain, before resigning her commission to fully support her husband, Colonel Steve Russell, throughout his military career.

Even while battling cancer, Heroes Homestead officials said Russell has “refused to diminish her commitment to others,” by leading  the annual Loon Lake 5 Mile Walk. In conferring the Community Leadership Award, the selection committee stated,   

“Sharon Russell exemplifies the quiet yet powerful leadership that transforms communities. With grace, determination, and boundless optimism – even in the face of cancer – she inspires others never to grow weary in doing good, proving that one committed life can ripple outward to strengthen an entire region.”

To learn more about the Heroes Awards Night, visit heroeshomestead.org/Heroes_Homestead_Awards_Night.