After dedicating 37 years to the Spanish Lake Fire Department, 27 years spent as chief, Larry Boyer knows first-hand the important role the Red Cross plays on the scene of a disaster. "I got involved because of how much the Red Cross helped me and what they would do for the affected families," said Larry.

 

A volunteer for two and a half years, Larry started his work within the arena he was most familiar with, the Disaster Action Team (DAT). However, after starting, he quickly broadened his volunteer efforts and now volunteers as a member of Disaster Services Human Resources (DSHR). "I went on one DSHR assignment and I called the day I got back to sign up for another," remarked Larry.

 

Recently, Larry was part of the DSHR team sent to southern California to aid in the wildfire relief effort. Larry and fellow volunteer, Mike Wood, drove the Chapter's Emergency Response Vehicle from St. Louis to California. "It took us about four days to get there and three to get back," said Larry. For four weeks, Larry and Mike spent their days supporting Red Cross shelter kitchen staff, going on food runs, and assisting in the warehouse.

 

Larry has also begun work as a Chapter warehouse volunteer and typically spends four to five hours a day at the St. Charles County Service Center in St. Peters. "I don't know what we would do without Larry," said Brad Farber, St. Charles County Service Center supervisor. "Larry is the model Red Cross volunteer. He is the service center's Mr. Dependable." Tony Diaz, warehouse manager for the Chapter, was quick to add, "Larry is always pitching in and creating new efficiencies around the warehouse."

 

In February 2007, Larry was awarded the St. Charles County Volunteer of the Year Award for being the volunteer who made the most significant contribution to the St. Charles County Service Center.

 

Away from the Red Cross, Larry likes to go on fishing trips and to spend time with his family. He and his wife have two daughters, one son, and eight grandchildren. They all live within 15 minutes of each other and get to spend time together often. "Other than that, I don't do much else but Red Cross work. It has become almost like a full-time job for me," Larry said.