First Shirts: Showing appreciation for Airmen

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Adarius Petty
  • 432nd Wing/432nd Air Expeditionary Wing Public Affairs

Recently, Airmen of the 432nd Wing/432nd Air Expeditionary Wing received a big ‘thank you’ for their contributions to the MQ-1 Predator and MQ-9 Reaper community from the Creech Air Force Base First Sergeants Association with an Operation Warm Heart sponsored event, July 15, 2016.

Approximately 45 Airmen received a free lunch from the nonprofit organization established to receive, manage, and distribute charitable funds to all service members and their families of the Nellis and Creech AFB community in times of emergency and financial crisis. 

 

“The purpose of this event was to take care of the Airmen and raise morale,” said Master Sgt. Nathaniel, 432nd WG/432nd AEW first sergeant. “It also served as an opportunity to raise awareness of what Operation Warm Heart is and what they do for our Airmen.”

Through the efforts of the Combined Federal Campaign and other major sponsors within the local community, funds are raised to provide support to those who work hard to serve the United States. 

 

“We ensure Airmen are not alone and offset emergency expenses for out of town family member’s lodging, food and transportation during emergency situations,” said Nathaniel.

 

Since many Airmen were unaware of the OWH Program, the event offered time for both education and socialization while allowing others the chance to donate to support their fellow Airmen.

 

“I think this is a good experience that builds morale,” said Senior Airman Lindsay. “This is especially true for the younger Airmen.”

The event, which was open to all ranks, provided a much needed break from operations, support and maintenance operations.

 

“Since there aren’t many restaurants on base, it was nice to get out and bring people together in a different way,” said Lindsay. “Everyone was excited to hang out with their co-workers and enjoy free lunch.”

Still the importance of the program wasn’t overshadowed as Airmen were reminded that in 2015, Operation Warm Heart distributed $73,014.31 in charitable funds to more than 90 Airmen and their families.

An average of approximately $776.75 was issued to each family to help lessen the impact of emergency situations. 

“It’s nice to give back to the Airmen of Creech with something everyone enjoys,” said Master Sgt. Vidal, 432nd WG/432nd AEW first sergeant.

This is the second event held on Creech Air Force Base by OWH in 2016.

“We will continue to build working relationships with our community partners to ensure the availability and service of the program,” said an OWH spokesperson.  “Airmen taking care of Airmen is our main goal.”