Staff Sergeant Frank Martinez wasn't out looking for recognition when he spoke casually of his participation in the Pope Elementary Dads Club to a fellow Army reservist. Yet he was honored anyway. Twice.

The first one was a monthly award for volunteerism.

The second was a more coveted honor: the Military Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal.

Both times his conversation was overheard by superiors who liked what they heard and submitted his name for the awards.

Usually the medal is handed out during a brief ceremony on base. But Martinez had a request: why not conduct the ceremony on the grounds of Pope?

"It just seems fitting," said Martinez, standing next to the electronic marquee he and his Pope band of brothers helped make happen. "This place is the reason why I'm getting the award in the first place."

The announcement was made in front of the school, along with an explanation that the medal is awarded to members of the armed forces who perform outstanding volunteer community service of "a sustained, direct and consequential nature."

Translation? There must be results to point to.

No problem for Martinez, who has been a part of the Dads Club for three years and has overseen countless activities. And since his son is in the third grade, he'll be around awhile.

"I don't think there is such a thing as a former member of the Pope Dads Club," said Martinez. "I know a lot of these dudes whose kids have left and they are still here helping out. It's just a great fellowship with guys doing great things for the school."