CHARLESTON AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. –
There are a variety of professional organizations in the Charleston AFB and local community worth giving our energy to as Airmen.
Many of these professional organizations exist for the betterment of our own force, and what we put in is what we get out. Besides the opportunity to work toward common beneficial goals, they offer the unique opportunity to interface with all levels of leadership, and to network with peers. In the company of these leaders, an entirely new realm of insight becomes available.
Additionally, many organizations offer the opportunity to get involved in our local community through volunteerism, which helps represent the military in a positive way. Right alongside our core values is the principle that every Airman is an ambassador and leader, and our professional organizations put it into practice. Many times other activities can obscure the importance of giving back to the local community. Getting involved with a professional organization is a sure way to keep aware of events and to stay connected with other Airmen who share your goals.
These professional organizations also work hard as a group at a variety of different causes that improve our active-duty benefits, retirement benefits, veteran benefits and even our families' benefits.
Many of the more active organizations in the Charleston community are not hard to find, and you may have already heard of them, such as the Air Force Sergeants' Association - the only Air Force enlisted organization dedicated to the people behind the stripes. The AFSA continually fights for your hard-earned benefits and provide you with a strong voice in Washington.
Aside from the AFSA, there are several others. For instance, the Air Force Association is an independent, nonprofit, civilian education organization promoting public understanding of aerospace power and the pivotal role it plays in the security of the nation.
The Noncommissioned Officer Association remains a vital fraternal, benevolent non-profit organization and acts as a conduit between the military and civilian communities in the local area, promoting positive community relations.
Also, there is the Veterans of Foreign Wars association, which is dedicated to supporting those who sacrifice so much for this country - our veterans of the U.S. armed forces and their families.
There are also the most often heard of groups, such as the Chief's Group, Charleston Top Three, 5 and 6 Council, and lastly, your squadron booster club.
If you are not a currently a member of a professional organization, consider becoming one. Get out there and get involved. You will be glad you did.