'True American Patriot' Steward Wood Honored For Community Service

When Steward "Stu" Wood found out he was the recipient of the 2012 Joseph P. Conway award, he said he was "flabbergasted and speechless."

"I couldn't believe it," he said.

Wood, a veteran who served three tours in Vietnam, was awarded for his dedication to several organizations, including Operation Troop Support, the American Legion Post 180, the , and for his "true American patriotism," at the Mass. American Legion Ceremony in Sutton, on April 29.

While Wood was surprised by the honor, Mark McDermott, commander of American Legion Post 180 in Danvers, said Wood's resume doesn't even begin to show the real picture of Stu's dedication.

Wood has been involved with Operation Troop Support for more than eight years, attending several events a week, and encouraging junior members to display true patriotism. He wears his American colors with pride, and has acted as a liaison between the Legion and the Newburyport Guard Unit. When the Wreaths Across America came to the Danvers area, Wood traveled with them throughout the state.

"He is the first to volunteer, the one who shows up first and goes back home last," McDermott said. "As a proud American soldier and countryman, he lives each day with the most wonderful outlook, and makes those around him feel proud to be an American."

At the ceremony, Wood thanked his friends from Operation Troop Support who attended, and looked up to heaven and said thank you to his family, especially his wife Barbara.

"I never expected this" Wood said, describing the ceremony as heartwarming and very moving. "I'm one darn proud American."

On Saturday May 5, Wood will join Operation Troop Support at the to package and mail off supplies for the troops. The event is posted on the organization's Facebook page and is open to the public.