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"Holiday Heroes: MCSC Marine, Civilian Giving Back in Different Ways"

by: Matt Gonzales, MCSC Office of Public Affairs and Communication - 17 Dec 2020

Life is about relationships

Todd Wagenhorst, the director of MCSC’s Operations and Programs, has plenty of stories to tell. But he’s more interested in hearing yours.

In early December, Wagenhorst’s eyes fixated on the dozens of photos adorning his office walls. Most images captured he and his colleagues scaling mountains, with the picturesque Blue Ridge Mountains as a backdrop. His head filled with memories, triggering a wide smile.

“We had some really fun times,” said Wagenhorst. “And I learned a lot about these young Marines.”

About five years ago, Wagenhorst noticed many young Marines were struggling with issues in their personal lives. He wanted to find a way to leverage his own experiences to help these individuals circumvent their problems and reach their full potential.

In response, he began hosting hiking ventures and other activities aimed at increasing team-building among the MCSC workforce. He’s organized various mountain hikes, trips to historic locations and even an “escape room” activity.

As he explained, these gatherings help build comradery among the workforce, allowing them to get to know one another better. The events also enable individuals to relax, have fun and learn new ways to handle personal or professional stressors.

“Life is about relationships, and I think that is one thing we tend to struggle with the most at times,” said Wagenhorst. “It’s good to talk to Marines, learn more about them and help them through some good and tough times in a safe environment. I deeply care about them”

These team-building events have ballooned in popularity. While the COVID-19 crisis has prevented larger gatherings, Wagenhorst still hosts activities with smaller groups as an avenue for individuals to exercise, express themselves, and talk about anything going on in their lives.

The events also allow Wagenhorst to discuss his own past mistakes and successes as a learning tool for young Marines.

“I think there is a need to help people grow, not only as a Marine but as a person, spouse and parent,” said Wagenhorst. “These activities have grown into something that is very helpful to them and gives them a safe place to come and talk.”

‘I’m there for them’

Maj. Richard Witt, a sustainment team lead at MCSC, has participated in several Wagenhorst-led exercises. Witt said building relationships with Marines and civilians in an informal setting has been the best team-building experience he has encountered.

“His mentorship is invaluable to me,” said Witt. “Showing your team you are available for a hike in the woods, one-on-one lunch or a quick, closed-door session can create vertical and horizontal team cohesion and pay dividends for all parties for years to come.”

Witt isn’t alone in praising Wagenhorst’s efforts. In 2019, Wagenhorst received a letter from a Marine mentee who was leaving the command. The individual, who has requested anonymity, said Wagenhorst was more than a mentor—he was a father figure to him.

“Because of you, I was able to push myself further into becoming a better person,” the letter read. “I can’t express how thankful I am that I had the opportunity to build a relationship with you.”

Jack Cave, a division head at MCSC, commended Wagenhorst for his continued investment in the lives of junior Marines. Cave pointed out how Wagenhorst continues to commit himself to mentoring despite his busy schedule.

“An impactful mentor and coach, Mr. Wagenhorst dedicates numerous hours to sharing life lessons and challenging others to strive for personal and professional improvement,” said Cave. “He accomplishes all of this in addition to running the MCSC G3 shop, as well as family and grandchildren duties.”

Wagenhorst’s passion for mentoring others and helping them manage life issues was ingrained in him at an early age by his father, who retired from a technology company, pursued a degree in Nursing and then spent his life helping people in hospice care. Seeing his father’s positive attitude and desire to offer assistance inspired Wagenhorst to pay it forward.

“Talking, interacting with and caring for people is an important part of life,” said Wagenhorst. “I want the young Marines to know that if there is anything I can do to help them, I’m there for them.”