NIOBRARA COUNTY - Recently, the NEA (Niobrara Electric Association) Board of Directors nominated Jack Hammond for the prestigious Craig Thomas Award presented at the WREA Fall Conference in Sheridan, Wyoming. The following was sub-mitted by John Hester: “At the request of the Niobrara Electric Association’s Board of Directors and my own interaction with this local legend - a man of exemplary virtue and a much-respected character, I would like to nominate Jack Hammond for the Craig Thomas Award.

In 1973 Jack began serving on the NEA Board of Directors. For the next five decades, he served this Co-op through the local board, Tri-State Board, and Mid-west Electric Board. The number of hours, meetings, and miles Jack has given our membership is uncountable and always underpinned by his vision and steady nature.

Jack has an uncommon wisdom and a talent for getting things done and seeing to it that those around him take part and grow into their positions. At my very 1st Board meeting, years ago, Jack must have seen a “deer-on-the-headlights” _look on my face. So naturally, before the end of the meeting, Jack had me on the WREA board. I went from deer in the headlight to a near-nauseating panic. I wasn’t about to go against Jack’s wishes, so off to WREA I went. We’ve all benefitted from Jack’s knowledge and leadership.

Jack also has over 40 years as a hunter safety instructor, Installed over 30 miles of waterline in the Red Desert for the BLM Wildlife Habitat Improvement, actively worked with Lusk and Lance Creek roping clubs, avidly sup-ported 4-H, served as a church deacon, secured a grant for the Lance Creek Water System, contributed to the Lance Creek museum and owned/ operated his own successful business for 65 years, in the community he generously helped cultivate and employed over 30 people during three decades. His expertise in the oil field was also of immense help in the NEA Board room.

For his “cooperative family” embodiment I respectfully submit that Jack Hammond is deserving of the Craig Thomas Award.”

Jack Hammond did in fact receive the Award and was honored at a gathering of his peers.

Jack was also surrounded by family for the memorable moment and spoke fondly of his time of service with NEA/WREA and receiving this recognition.