Salvation Army Captains Russ and Linda Keeney go over paperwork in preparations for their departure to the Midland Corps office after seven years of service in Big Spring. (HERALD Photo/Thomas Jenkins)
 

“Every year there are moves in the Salvation Army, and normally those moves are three- to four-year appointments. We've been here seven years, and we got the call from our divisional commander and he explained we had been appointed to the Midland command. It's just 45 miles up the road, but with gas prices what they are, it's a lot farther than that,” Russ Keeney said with a laugh.

“We're excited and it's bittersweet. We hate to leave Big Spring because we love this place; we love the community and we've developed some great relationships. But we know God is leading our footsteps, and as long as we follow him on the journey, he'll bless us, and we'll be allowed to bless other people.”

The Keeneys will be replaced by Captains Ed and Terri Cheshire, who will be moving into their second appointment since being appointed as officers of the Salvation Army.

Keeney said the move shouldn't change ongoing Salvation Army programs.

“Fortunately, I don't think the move will effect the programs at all. We have everything in place and the new officers coming in are aware of everything that has already been started,” said Keeney. “They are going to continue on with everything, including the efforts to build the gym on this property, and that's already in the making. We already have the schematic plans and we're in the process of sending them to Dallas for approval. They're onboard with that, and they are 100 percent on fire.

“This will be their second appointment. They've been officers since 2006. They're not real young officers, but they have life experience, so I think they will be real good for the community.”

Officials with the local Salvation Army said a reception for the Keeneys is slated for June 22 at 1 p.m. in the Corps office, located at 811 W. Fifth St.

As for the Keeneys, they plan to keep the departure as painless as possible.

“Seven years. It's been seven years,” Keeney said gravely. “It's going to be really tough to say goodbye. We're going to make it as light-hearted as we can because we know God has ordained these footsteps.”

Linda Keeney said leaving Big Spring will be tough for her and her family, but she feels confident the city and surrounding area will be in good hands.

“It's going to be tough, and I know June 22 is going to be a very tough day for us. There are going to be a lot of tears and it's going to be very emotional for us, but we also know the community that loved us will love the new officers who are coming in,” said Keeney. “It's going to be OK.”

For more information on the reception, call 267-8239.

Contact Staff Writer Thomas Jenkins at 263-7331 ext. 232 or by e-mail at This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it