Richard E. “Bud” Watson has been named one of four finalists for Wyoming’s 7th Annual “Jefferson Award for Public Service” by Peggy Porter, General Manager of KCWY, Channel 13 TV of Casper, Wyoming, one of several sponsors of the state award.

Watson is one of 42 statewide nominees for this award singling out extraordinary volunteer service. A luncheon honoring all the nominees and finalists will be held in Casper on Monday, April 11, 2011. At that time, the Wyoming Finalist, selected by a panel of judges from Washington, D.C., will be announced. That person will receive a trip to a celebration in our nation’s capitol in June 2011.

The Jefferson Award for Public Service originated in 1972 under the leadership of Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, Sen. Robert Taft, Jr., and Sam Beard. They are now awarded on both the national and state levels, and their primary purpose “is to serve as a ‘Call to Action for Volunteers’ in local communities.”

The foundation for Watson’s nomination is his work through Gracie’s Promise, the non-profit charitable organization which raises funds and gives financial assistance to families with members, primarily children age 21 years or younger, who are battling catastrophic medical circumstances. With his wildlife paintings and leadership on the Board of Directors, Gracie’s Promise has been able to help twelve families in five states in less than two years of existence.

The nomination also noted that Watson had been a Torrington Volunteer Fireman for over 30 years and had held every office in that organization, including Fire Chief. Durint that same time period, Bud used his mechanical expertise to care for the All Saints Episcopal Church building and also served in every position available to lay persons in the church.

When told of his finalist status, Watson said, “I’m flabbergasted! And speechless!” Finally he added, “No one ever does these things alone. There have been angels helping me with anything I’ve ever done, so this award belongs to all of them and my family.”