NATCHEZ — For more than 15 years, John Kerwin has worked with 4-H children in Adams County.

And recently, the club gave something back to him.

Kerwin received a service award for his work with the 4-H shooting sports program.

Kerwin said he was very surprised when he found out he won the award.

“I was pleased that I was chosen for the award,” he said. “I was shocked to see that someone noticed what I had done.”

Kerwin, a veteran of World War II, the Korean War and the Vietnam War, said his work teaching young people in the 4-H program was his way of giving back.

“Being retired, I wanted to return what others had done for me when I was growing up,” Kerwin said.

While he was not involved in 4-H as a child, Kerwin said it was his time in the Boy Scouts where he found out the importance of mentoring.

“If you have a mentor giving you something positive to go by, it makes it easier for you to be a better person,” he said.

Jason Jones, Adams County 4-H youth agent, said Kerwin is a very dedicated person who deserves the award.

“They don’t just give the award to people have been with the organization for a certain amount of time,” Jones said. “You have to be involved and be there for the program, and Mr. Kerwin is.”

With a specialty in shooting sports, Jones said Kerwin is a great volunteer who helps the youth he is teaching in any way he can.

“He is usually the first person out, making sure the targets are set up for the kids,” Jones said. “He always steps up and makes sure everything is going fine.”

Jones said Kerwin is always willing to go the extra mile to help people out in the program.

“We had a camp this summer and he went out and got donations from businesses to help with the camp,” he said. “He even brings cookies and cakes to the office for us to eat.”

Jones said Kerwin is trained in archery and muzzle loading, and helps teach the children about using these tools properly.

“He always keeps the kids up to date on gun safety,” Jones said. “He is very dedicated and concerned about their well-being.”

Kerwin said the fulfillment he gains from volunteering his time can be described in one statement.

“The satisfaction that they are gaining knowledge,” Kerwin said. “And that I am returning to society what I was given as a young man.”