A Bethel woman has been honored as one of seven Alaskans to receive this year’s First Lady Volunteer of the Year Award. Bethel resident Rachel Sallaffie received the honor on Oct. 7 for her volunteer work with the Alaska National Guard. She serves as the Family Readiness Group Leader for the 297th Infantry Battalion, B Company. In her role, she supports families and soldiers, connects them with services, and organizes family-oriented events. A description of her award calls Sallaffie the “backbone and ‘Mother’ of the Alaska National Guard Armory in Bethel.”