CAPE MAY – Jessica Manfre, who started a food pantry for Coast Guard families and civilian workers impacted by the federal government’s shutdown earlier this year, was named the Coast Guard Military Spouse of the Year.
National voting for the Armed Forces Insurance Military Spouse of the Year award takes place starting 1 p.m. EST March 7-8 at https://msoy.afi.org/. The winner will be announced May 9.
The Armed Forces Insurance Military Spouse of the Year® award recognizes military spouses’ important contributions and unwavering commitment to the military community and the country. The award gives recognition to military spouses from all branches of service.
Manfre, of Cape May, has been an active member of the Jersey Cape Military Spouses Club during the three years her husband has been stationed here. Her efforts with the food pantry supported not only southern New Jersey families in need, but also those in several other states. It attracted national attention.
“I’m proud of my work, but it wouldn’t have been possible without the village of military spouses who believed in me and rallied to make it happen,” Manfre said.
“When I won the district and was one of 18 spouses vying for the award, I mentally congratulated the other spouses,” she added. “I was not thinking I would win this because I am standing next to some amazing nominees.”
The mother of two said her “military spouse story is one full of pride for my husband’s service to the country, humbleness for the communities that embrace us, and gratefulness for my fellow military spouses.”
In one of many nominations for the award, Coast Guard Training Center Cape May Commanding Officer Capt. Owen Gibbons cited Manfre’s “extraordinary vision, leadership and communication skills” in her efforts to assist families during the shutdown.
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