Doug and Jeannine Schrock were surprised with state honors during Doug’s birthday party which was held Monday, June 27. Doug received the Sagamore of the Wabash while Jeannine was presented with the Circle of Corydon award as well as resolution by the Indiana General Assembly. Photo by Lauren Zeugner

By Lauren Zeugner
InkFreeNews

SYRACUSE — Doug Schrock’s birthday party was in full swing Monday evening, June 27 when Syracuse Councilman Larry Siegel; State Representative Curt Nisly and his wife, Mary; State Representative Dave Abbott; and State Senator Blake Doriot and his wife, Kelli; crashed the party for a very special reason.

For over a year, Siegel has been working with Nisly and Doriot to have the couple recognized for their contributions to the community, often times behind the scenes.

“From our community center, to the reconstruction of our dam controlling the water level of Lake Wawasee and 1,000’s of acres of wetlands, to the youth athletic complex, to churches, food banks, day care services and youth centers to water distribution in the Virgin Islands, and pet rescues in different parts of the world, to the anecdotal, sometimes short and inspirational comments made while walking his dogs… all have benefited,” Siegel wrote in a letter to the governor.

“When times get tough, Doug shows up, makes his contributions and disappears wanting nothing in return. Doug shares generously his wealth, talents and knowledge,” Siegel further continued in his letter.

Nisly presented Doug with the Sagamore of the Wabash, the highest civilian honor awarded in the state. Gov. Eric Holcomb limits Sagamore of the Wabash awards to 120 a year.

After Nisly’s presentation, Siegel told Schrock’s friends and family he felt Jeannine needed to be appreciated as well. “She does things and Doug gets the recognition, ” Siegel said noting much of what Jeannine does is done anonymously. “She does stuff on her own… She just wants to help people.”

Doriot presented Jeannine with the Circle of Corydon award, which state legislators may present two a year with the governor’s approval. Nisly then presented Jeannine with a resolution from the general assembly honoring her contributions to the community.

Both Doug and Jeannine were surprised and humbled by the recognition. “Thank you for everything you do for the town, ” Siegel said.