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What can I do to make a difference?

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Amanda K. Michaud
  • 375th Force Support Squadron
SCOTT AIR FORCE BASE, Ill. --  "I will never leave an Airman behind."

This line in the Airman's Creed truly stands out. The meaning behind the quotation practically spells itself out. It means to never abandon those who are in need, always lend a helping hand, offer a shoulder to cry on or just plain listen to someone's story. I recently had the honor to be part of a great organization that reached out to the homeless veterans of the United States Armed Forces who served in many past wars.

Since I was young girl, I've always admired my grandfathers who fought in the Korean and Vietnam Wars as proud members of the Air Force. I knew in my heart that they would aid their fellow brothers and sisters in arms even if it meant paying the ultimate price. So why shouldn't I help feed a soldier who battled the terrorists in Iraq, or clothe a Marine who braved the sweltering jungles of Vietnam? Though we signed up for different branches of the military, we still bear arms and protect this nation together. As a new Airman coming into the operational Air Force, I asked myself, "What can I do to make a difference?"

The answer? The Homeless Veterans Stand Down.

Sure, we had to wake up early on a Saturday morning and put on our uniform, however, I didn't care about that. I was eager to dedicate my time to volunteer for this event.

While the other Airmen escorted and talked with their groups of veterans at the scattered facilities, I helped at the spiritual tent. I laid out reading material, set up the popcorn machine and put out two huge boxes of candy. As the veterans poured into the area, we immediately went to work passing out the goodies. The candy and popcorn were the big hits of the Stand-Down. The chaplain and I must have served at least 50 bags of popcorn. We even had dog-tags with spiritual messages carved on them--those were gone within an hour.

Toward the end of the afternoon, a huge line congregated at the clothing tent. It pained me to see how many of our prior service-members had little clothes to keep them warm. I was also glad to see them leave with a smile. It goes to show that there are people who truly care for the well being of others. I am very proud that I could make a difference in society and help out in times of need. If I could, I would do it all over again from start to finish.