22nd AS helps boys, girls

  • Published
  • By Master Sgt. Jason Nipar
  • 22nd Airlift Squadron
TRAVIS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. --  Airmen of the 22nd Airlift Squadron have a long history of moving the mission around the world, but the squadron also strives to impact the local community.

On April 17th and 24th, a group of 12 junior enlisted members swarmed the grounds of the Vacaville Boys and Girls Club providing some much needed grounds maintenance.

"The outdoor common areas have been neglected due to staffing shortages and budget constraints," said Anna Eaton, Vacaville Boys and Girls Club director. "We were completely blown away when Airmen from Travis volunteered their time to improve the curb appeal and safety of the facility. Their efforts have made a huge impact on the children of our club."

The goal of the club is to inspire local youth through adult encouragement to believe in themselves and foster positive decision-making skills to prevent poverty, drug abuse,
teen parenting, gang involvement or low self-esteem.

During a leadership seminar for Travis' Honorary Commanders, Lt. Col. Jacqueline Breeden, 22nd AS commander, met Eaton and learned of the club's plight. Breeden believed this partnership would pay dividends for her Airmen as well as the youth of the club.

"Our junior enlisted do not have many supervisory responsibilities," Breeden said. "This partnership affords them the opportunity to develop leadership skills while also positively impacting the community. Their interaction with underprivileged youth will provide a positive example and help our Airmen transition from being followers to future leaders."

Senior Master Sgt. Brian Eastman, 22nd AS chief enlisted manager, visited the Airmen during one of the outings.

"It is amazing that these young junior enlisted stepped up and truly epitomized service before self," he said. "I believe the level of gratitude shown by Eaton and the cosmetic transformation around the club will inspire them to continue this project and others throughout their careers. This effort really shows what the 22nd is made of."

The squadron is approximately 50 percent complete with the initial cleanup around the facility and, after that, it plans to visit once per month to maintain the landscaping. The club is interested in increasing interaction between the Airmen and club members, the men and women of the 22nd AS stand ready.