Ruppersberger Praises Odenton Woman for Service to Military Families

(Washington, D.C.)- Congressman C.A. Dutch Ruppersberger (D-MD) honored an Odenton woman for her service to military families.  Ramona Vazquez, founder of the Greater Baltimore Coast Guard Spouses Association, created a special center that provides diapers, formula, clothing, and toys for families at no charge. 

“Nate’s Open Door Baby Pantry” at the Coast Guard Yard at Curtis Bay is named after Coastguardsman Nate Bruckenthal, who was killed by a suicide bomber in Iraq in 2004.  He left behind his pregnant wife who soon gave birth to a daughter named Harper. 

“It is people like Ramona Vazquez that truly make our country great.  Her selfless dedication to military families in her community is inspiring.  She went above and beyond the call of duty to help young families get the things they need to care for their infants.  The motto of the Spouses’ Association is ‘Unconditional Love and Support.’  Ms. Vazquez exemplifies that in everything she does,” said Congressman C.A. Dutch Ruppersberger (D-MD).            

Since its creation in May 2005, more than four hundred local families have received free items from Nate’s Pantry.  Ms. Vazquez’s husband is deployed overseas with the United States Coast Guard.  Her son Edward serves in the United States Air Force. 

Ms. Vazquez was recognized at a special ceremony today at the White House commemorating Military Spouse’s Day.

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