Washington D.C.’s “Fighting Fifth” Welcomes New Leader

Oct 28, 2017

October 27, 2017
By Justin Goldman, Platoon Member

October is an exciting time for the Washington D.C. 5th Service Platoon, whose spirited volunteers have dubbed themselves the “Fighting Fifth.” The tireless efforts of outgoing Platoon Leader EJ Delpero has been a key part of such an impactful year of service.

EJ seamlessly rolled from his Mission Continues fellowship in 2015 at the National Air and Space Museum into taking the lead within the D.C. 4th Platoon in October of that year. In 2016, EJ again stepped up to lead the D.C. 5th Platoon.

EJ welcoming volunteers for National Trails Day of 2016

EJ Delpero welcoming volunteers for National Trails Day of 2016

As The Mission Continues family in D.C. gathered last week to reflect and celebrate what we have accomplished together, we eagerly welcomed EJ’s successor, Quinton “Q” Goffinett. Fresh out of his Delta Class 2017 Orientation–where he helped parts of Houston recover from Hurricane Harvey–Q is ready to hit the ground running.

Joining us was the D.C. 4th Platoon Leader Rose Feroah, whose twin daughters are another example of instilling the value of service to the next generation and inspiring them to serve their community.

Rose Feroah and one of her two daughters volunteering at a service project with The Mission Continues.

Rose Feroah and one of her two daughters volunteering at a service project with The Mission Continues.

Service is always a theme when we put the blue on and gather as part of the Mission Continues. Inspiring future generations to serve is at the heart of all of this, and Q is certainly leading in that department. After all, his involvement in the Mission Continues is a family affair. His wife Bekah and their two children have put lots of sweat equity into numerous service projects.

Quinton and his son (far right) at a service project with The Mission Continues.

Quinton Goffinett and his son (far right) at a service project with The Mission Continues.

This kind of culture is why I keep coming back to volunteer — the connections, camaraderie, and the feeling that whether you’re 5 or 55, you are welcome to serve with us. When I look at EJ, Rose, and Q, I see three leaders who foster this culture.

To me, they prove that helping others can be a way to form lifelong friendships, gain a new sense of purpose, and strike a healthy work-life balance — and be an inspiration and role model to youth.

I’m excited to see what this year will bring with Q at the helm. The Q era kicks off October 28th with a service project at Washington Youth Garden within the beautiful National Arboretum.

This marked transition in the leadership of the D.C. 5th is as close to a seamless one as you will see in our nation’s capital — you won’t want to miss it.

 

Report for duty in your community with The Mission Continues. Serve with a Service Platoon at an upcoming service event near you or apply for a fellowship. You can learn more about our programs on our website and stay updated on the latest news and announcements on Facebook and Twitter.