In every organization there are individuals who are recognized for their contributions and support without ever thinking about themselves.
Nick Nichols MTCM (SS) of the United States Submarine Veterans Incorporated, Charleston Base, is one of those men.  Nick serves as the Chaplain and Webmaster for Charleston Base and his leadership and commitment are highly respected.
Over the years Nick has organized and led numerous Charleston Submarine Veterans events including many funerals for our lost shipmates that have gone on Eternal Patrol.  He provides the families of the loved ones with great care and sympathy in addition to offering a military ceremony if requested.
Each month, he provides hope and comfort to our shipmates with medical issues including visits to the member and the family.  He sends cards of condolences or cheer to submarine sailors and their families in time of need.
This year is a special one for Nick and his family as he has been selected to receive the Summerville Medical Center 2009 Frist Humanitarian Award, and nominated for the 2009 National Frist Humanitarian Award.
The awards, created in 1971, honor individuals for their outstanding humanitarian and volunteer activities. The Humanitarian Awards are given each year in recognition of the caring spirit and philanthropic work of the late Dr. Thomas Frist, Sr., and a founder of HCA (Hospital Corporation of America).
Employees and volunteers who demonstrate extraordinary commitment and dedication to care giving and their community are selected around the country and honorees are recognized at the local and national levels. The two national winners are selected from the local honorees.
Nick is a member of Old Fort Baptist Church and is also an active participant of Summerville Medical Center’s blood drives, Heart Walk and The Susan B. Komen Foundation for Breast Cancer teams.
Nick’s involvement with the community and the hospital makes him an extraordinary individual who is always willing to help those in need. His generosity and sincerity are two of his many values that made his selection for the 2009 National Frist Humanitarian Award.
As part of Nick’s commitment to the community, he actively delivers meals for The Palmetto House and volunteers at the CEC Health Clinic. He is an asset to our healthcare team and community; the examples mentioned above are a highlight of all the endeavors and projects that Nick has taken on to make his community stronger.
Nick does all these things without presumption and with humility. He is one of the 20 percent that does 80 percent of the work and brings to life the phrase “if you want something done ask a busy person to do it.”