Commentary

April 20, 2012

Decide what you like, act on it

by Master Sgt. David Garcia
56th Operations Group

Some might think that volunteering is just something people do to appease their boss. Others might think that volunteering is something people do to get promoted. Both of those thoughts might be true, but the main reason people volunteer is because it makes the base, town and the world a better place. It also makes you feel great after you get done with whatever you volunteered to do.

I had the opportunity to attend the wing’s volunteer recognition ceremony April 12 at Club Five Six. I was blown away by how many people were doing great things on and around Luke Air Force Base. There were dependent children, spouses, retired military, civilian employees and active-duty Airmen receiving recognition for their efforts. The ceremony proved that we are truly in good hands, and that people really do care about others here and abroad (deployed teammates).

Like the article headline says, decide what you like and act on it. For me, I have always enjoyed helping the elderly and the less fortunate. I’ve spent numerous hours at soup kitchens feeding the less fortunate and driving warm meals to the elderly who are not able to leave their homes. I’ve been lucky to be stationed at locations that offered these opportunities. There is no better feeling in the world than seeing how much you are appreciated by the ones you are serving. It makes you want to stay longer and do it more often.

Did you know that Air Force Instruction 36-2618, the enlisted force structure talks about volunteering? Under general enlisted airman responsibilities, it states, “Join professional organizations (for example, base advisory and enlisted councils) and participate in organization and community events through volunteerism.”

There are plenty of ways that you can get involved with volunteering. The fine folks at the Airman & Family Readiness Center are always willing to help. The first sergeants constantly push out e-mail to their units about organizations that need help. Don’t forget to check the base and local newspapers. Google is another great source to find out what is available. Bottom line, get out there and make a difference.




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