Wyoming AFA chapter extends helping hands Published Jan. 18, 2008 By Irene Johnigan Air Force Association Cowboy Chapter 357 president F. E. WARREN AFB, Wyo. -- The Air Force Association continues to meet the challenges presented in a changing world. We are truly mindful of young professionals spread across the world. Today, more than ever, it is important we ensure our populace is keenly aware of the need to support our national defense posture and particularly our young men and women in uniform. The trauma and uncertainty that unfolds when uniformed members leaves their families for deployment, and the challenges that situation presents, is never-ending and an avenue that requires everyone's support. We feel the loneliness and burdens they face and try very hard to help when we can. The Wyoming AFA has taken a very positive attitude and has endeavored to assist wherever and whenever possible. We were privileged this year to partner with the 90th Space Wing for a spectacular recognition of the Air Force's 60th anniversary. We thank Col. Mike Morgan, 90th SW commander, and his committee for their commitment and the many hours required to host such a successful event. Congratulations for a job extremely well done. We were particularly proud to host many Airmen as guests of the AFA to attend this banquet. Once again, our phenomenal community partners stepped up and made this happen. We continue to recognize the need for a strong lobbying effort for the military. AFA enjoys a lobbying program in Washington, D.C., that is second to none and is specifically formulated to ensure that our Airmen are afforded the best possible support at the national level. Many programs have been established or restructured to meet the needs of the times. Scholarship programs, recognition programs and leadership programs are readily available to military members. We are very proud of our teacher recognition programs, Aerospace Education Programs and award programs. We are here to lend you whatever assistance you require to reach your goals. On a very positive note, we were privileged to participate in many holiday recognition programs. We supported the dinner for the spouses and children of deployed Airmen. We were honored to partner with the Warren Spouses Club for the annual Cookie Launch that assures Airmen in the dormitories and in the work centers are recognized during the holidays. We partnered with the Military Affairs Committee to co-host the treats for troops program that provides treats for uniformed people of all services that are on duty for Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. The support and generosity of our community partners allow us to make these programs a resounding success. Additionally, we are strong advocates of and the catalysts behind the quarterly and annual awards programs on base to ensure tangible and meaningful recognition for those selected as the best of the best. As we embark on a new year and many new challenges, it is inherent upon each and every one of us to extend a helping hand, a kind word or express an interest in the welfare of our troops. "Support" is a very meaningful, thought-provoking word that fosters positive, far- reaching results. Make it your New Year's resolution to be the catalyst in making a positive and meaningful difference in their lives.