Friday, May 29, 2009

COMMENTARY >> Reaching beyond yourself

By Chief Master Sgt. Anthony Brinkley
19th Airlift Wing command chief

One of the things that makes us unique as a nation is our ability to provide assistance to those who are less fortunate. A key component to combat airlift is our collective ability to provide humanitarian relief when called upon. Last summer, we relocated hundreds of our own citizens from the Gulf Coast during Hurricanes Gustav and Ike.

The mindset of reaching beyond ourselves is crucial in being the best teammates possible. Each day, all of us possess the opportunity to assist others who may appreciate a random act of kindness. I am starting to understand that it’s not the big things that make a difference in the lives of those around us, but the little things that make a huge impact.

So I want to offer a couple of suggestions of how we can reach out to make someone’s day better. Start off each day with a purpose to maintain a positive attitude, no matter what comes your way. If you are in a leadership position, this is vital. When is the last time you have contacted a deployed member or their family? It only takes a few moments to send a note or make a call, but it can have a huge impact on someone who may feel disconnected or isolated.

Our Air Force Sergeants Association regularly visits the local VA hospital to meet those who have served our country, to say “thank you” and provide cheer. If you are interested in visiting, please let me know. How about greeting a new person and their family on our base? Are we doing all we can to let them know we’re happy to have them here?

These are few thoughts I would like you to consider. You see, our mission and focus is not about us, but about making things better for others. If we do this right, we’ll see while we are looking out for others, others will be looking out for us.
Combat Airlift!

No comments: