AFA offers volunteerism, “Airmen helping Airmen”

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Stephen Musal
  • Public Affairs
GOODFELLOW AIR FORCE BASE, Texas --  The Fort Concho Chapter 305 of the Air Force Association, a professional military organization, will hold its next meeting June 21, 4 p.m. at the officer's lounge in the Goodfellow Event Center.

AFA membership isn't required to come check out the organization, and if you're looking for an opportunity to volunteer in the community, the AFA might be right for you, said Jim Graham, Fort Concho Chapter 305 president.

The AFA's mission is to educate the public about the role of air and space power in national defense, and advocate for and support the U.S. Air Force and our Air Force family.

The Fort Concho Chapter 305 supports local programs such as the annual Reserve Officer Training Corps Drill Competition at Angelo State University, local Junior ROTC programs, the Civil Air Patrol and more by providing time, recognition and monetary support.

The Air Force Association is open to all current or prior military members, officer and enlisted, active, Guard or Reserve. It is also open to military spouses and dependents. Non-military civilians can join as patrons.

The Fort Concho Chapter 305's current project is working with the local chapter of the Non-Commissioned Officer's Association to get the Vietnam Memorial Traveling Wall to San Angelo this October.

Mr. Graham said that the AFA routinely works with the NCOA, Air Force Sergeants' Association and base organizations like the Rising 6 or the Top 3 to do more for the local Air Force community. He encouraged Airmen to get involved in all of the organizations as a member, but acknowledged that the growing constraints of fighting the War on Terror make volunteering with every organization increasingly difficult.

"Do as much as you can," Mr. Graham said. "Pick one organization to work with, and give time as best you can." Mr. Graham encouraged people to get involved, stressing the need for more members to bring back some of the programs the local chapter used to do. "It will benefit you as well as benefiting the Air Force family."

"Airmen who become members of various professional organizations demonstrate a deep understanding of the word 'wingman,'" agreed Chief Master Sgt. Paul Moreau, 17th Training Wing command chief master sergeant. "These organizations are fueled by the participation of Airmen taking care of Airmen."