The 2023 Halleck Community Service Award was presented to Mike O'Connor of Winamac Nov. 6 at the annual award banquet, sponsored by the Pulaski County Chamber of Commerce. Also pictured are master of ceremonies Dan Frain, Sherry O'Connor and Amy Cantu, Chamber president.

Before the award presentation, O'Connor was introduced by his children, Ryan, Cara Dulin and Christen Shell who shared memories of their father's volunteer work, and the inspiration he engendered in them, particularly in coaching, leading the YMCA, and working to establish the Panhandle Pathway Trail.

O'Connor was also presented with commendations from the offices of Sen. Mike Braun and Congressman Rudy Yakym, including the gift of a U.S. flag which flew over the U.S. Capitol. He was also presented with a plaque from the Warrior Youth Baseball program for his support.

O’Connor’s community contributions and involvement include the following:

• Instrumental in establishing the Community Foundation in Pulaski County
• Known for having a monumental role in securing funding and development of Pulaski County YMCA (now Wellness Center)
• Founding board member of Panhandle Pathway Trail
• Founding member Winamac Jaycees
• Past president of United Way, Winamac Youth Soccer, Winamac Youth Baseball and coach
• Past board member and coach Winamac Girls Softball
• Past president and 40-year member of Winamac Kiwanis Club
• Past president St Peter’s Catholic Church Parish Council and served on finance committee
• Past board member Pulaski Health Foundation
• Lifetime career in banking and continues to serve on Alliance Bank board

O’Connor is a Winamac Community High School graduate and Indiana University alumni who brought his knowledge and talents back home. He is married to Sherry McDonald (47 years) and they have three children and six grandchildren. He has fond memories of Dr. Halleck, including home visits when someone in his household needed medical care.

About the Halleck Award

The Halleck award was first presented by the Chamber in 1979 to its namesake, the late Dr. Harold J. Halleck. Last year's recipient was Doug Denton of Monterey.

The Chamber notes that every town, every city is blessed with a handful of individuals who selflessly donate their time, energy, and hard work to make their community a better place for everyone to live. Such individuals often give this time and energy for years without the gratitude and recognition they deserve. In order to recognize such outstanding individuals, the Pulaski County Chamber of Commerce awards the H.J. Halleck Community Service Award to one deserving individual each year.

Halleck Award Recipients

Halleck Award recipients are: