AUBURN HILLS, MI – The WNBA Detroit Shock and American Red Cross - Southeastern Michigan Chapter honored four female soldiers from the Michigan National Guard with The Detroit Shock and American Red Cross “My Personal Heroes” Award on July 6 on The Palace court at halftime of the Shock vs. Phoenix game. A representative of the American Red Cross - Southeastern Michigan Chapter, presented the award to Staff Sergeant Katrina Dudek, Sergeant Julie Guenther, Specialist Autumn Gorney and Sergeant Tina Hatchew, who were recognized for their outstanding contributions and dedication to their country while serving in the conflicts in Iraq.

Dudek, a Clinton Township resident, currently serves as team chief and unit retention advisor and has received numerous awards for her service. Sergeant Julie Guenther, of Jackson, is currently assigned to the 1461st combat heavy equipment transporter as a heavy wheeled vehicle driver and public affairs office manager. Guenther has received numerous awards for her service including the Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal, Army Good Conduct Medal and the Driver and Mechanic Badge. Specialist Autumn Gorney, of Jackson, is currently assigned to the 1461st combat heavy equipment transporter as a heavy wheeled vehicle driver, member of the base defense team, and has manned various towers protecting the base perimeter. Sergeant Tina Hatchew, of Flushing, currently a non-commissioned officer at the joint forces headquarters in Lansing was deployed to Iraq as a part of 263rd personnel service detachment.

The WNBA Detroit Shock and American Red Cross My Personal Heroes Program is a second-year initiative that encourages fans to nominate a person or group from their local community who has gone above and beyond the call of duty and recognize their accomplishments at a Shock home game during the 2006 season.

To nominate a hero, who can come from any walk of life, fans only need to complete the on-line nomination form or send name(s), address, phone number and name of school or organization to:

“WNBA Detroit Shock and American Red Cross My Personal Heroes”
The Palace of Auburn Hills
Four Championship Drive
Auburn Hills, MI 48326

Only one entry per person per email address per household will be accepted. Please see www.detroitshock.com for a complete list of rules/regulations and additional information. For more information on the My Personal Heroes program or to purchase tickets for any upcoming home game, please contact The Palace at (248) 377-0100 or visit www.detroitshock.com.