CHARLESTON AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. –
Let's be honest. Taking care of our people not only during the holidays, but year round, can be exhausting. And it is it worth it? Absolutely.
Being an acting first sergeant for two years now, I have experienced many ways to take care of those in my squadron family. If a day goes by and no one comes to see me about an issue, no matter how small, I find myself walking the halls to see how everyone is.
By far, I have had the greatest job in the Air Force as a combat videographer and it has been very rewarding, but, and there is always a "but," I have felt such a sense of accomplishment filling a first sergeant roll. Before I knew my flight very well, now I know my whole squadron very well. From making sure the new Airmen have a place to rest their head, to ensuring our most senior NCOs get that slot at the academy, I have had the privilege of extending a helping hand.
My wish would be for all members in the military to find it easy to help out those around them, for it to be contagious, no matter how inconvenient it might be at the time. Some suggestions you say? How about running with the staff sergeant that can't seem to get that last minute and a half off their run time to pass the fitness test? Or how about giving a spouse of a deployed member a break by watching their kids for a day?
Visit a member in the hospital, or check on them after a critical surgery procedure. Take someone to their appointment when they can't drive. A simple phone call can reassure a spouse or a deployed member that you care and are there if they need you. The list goes on and on.
Every day provides an opportunity to make a difference in someone's life. With the holidays upon us, make sure those around you have a meal to enjoy, somewhere to celebrate and to ring in the New Year with friends. We as a military community are lucky to have the huge support system that we do. Be part of that support system the best way you can.
When we all pool our resources, time and talents, we have the strongest sense of community in the world. There is no reason any of our Air Force family members should fall through the cracks, not only during the holidays, but year round.
With saying this, I challenge you all to look around your work centers, outside your work centers, in your local communities and to take an opportunity to make a difference in someone's day or maybe their life. Not only will the recipient of your good will be grateful, but it also will give you a sense of accomplishment.
If you already do all of these things, thank you. If you are the person who finds it hard to find any extra time in our ridiculously busy schedules, find a way to extend a helping hand. I believe you will forever be addicted. Enjoy it and be rewarded more than you would imagine.