Ed Reiger, of the USS Midway Museum, was nominated to be the Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) Volunteer of the Month for December 2020 by Laurie Switzer, the Director of Volunteer Programs at the Midway.
Ed wears several hats at the museum when the museum is open and operating normally. As a docent, Ed shares information, personal experiences, and the “Midway Magic” with guests from around the world and from all walks of life. He inspires, educates, and entertains Midway guests. Ed is also a “Docent of the Watch,” a role in which he manages a team of docents. Additionally, Ed serves as the Group Projects Team Manager. The Team hosts corporate, youth, and military groups that volunteer to maintain the Midway. Each year, thousands of volunteers help to maintain the ship, often referred to as a “city at sea.” When he welcomes these groups, Ed likes to go above and beyond by offering them personal tours of any areas of the ship that are of particular interest.
Ed stands out because of his work ethic and his passion for supporting the Midway. He is enthusiastic, hard-working, friendly, and vivacious. Ed is a true representative of San Diego and its Navy Culture. Ed served as an active duty sailor as well as a reservist. Ed’s Navy service included Vietnam, Desert Storm, Operation Enduring Freedom, and Operation Iraqi Freedom. In addition to his volunteer service with the Midway, he has also served as a docent for the Star of India and other ships. He even helped with the building of a full size replica of the San Salvadore – Juan Cabrillos’ ship! Ed has also worked for the San Diego County Registrar of Voters as a Lead Trainer for the past nine years.
Ed’s favorite part of volunteering aboard the Midway is working with the early morning and weekend volunteers. He explains, “I get to meet young sailors and Marines and to have the opportunity to interact with them and hear how they see the military and their futures...not to mention the ability to re-live a small part of my military days, vicariously, through them.” Ed’s dedication to the Midway and to the San Diego community is inspiring. Thank you, Ed, for all that you do!
