Looking for a few good citizens

  • Published
  • By Chief Master Sgt. Daniel Galvin
  • 90th Security Forces Group
F. E. Warren AFB, Wyo. --  As residents of the base and local community, we can all be considered citizens. But the question is, "Are we good citizens?"

If you were asked that question, how would you respond? Most of us blue suiters would answer, "Yes," without hesitation. After all, we're members of the military. Doesn't that mark us as good citizens? There is far more to the answer.

John Gibson profiles people's thoughts on what it means to be a good citizen in his article, "Being a Good Citizen." One response stuck out in particular. Richard Smith of Arkport, N.Y., characterizes a good citizen as "... a caring person with high moral character and strong family values, who is a good neighbor, friend to the environment, aspires to learn more, has a good grasp of history, keeps abreast of events and volunteers to lend a hand to the community at large." In his eloquent way, Mr. Smith encapsulated everything we should strive for as citizens of Warren and Cheyenne.

As I look around the base and observe our community here, I've seen all of these principles in action. We keep history alive through our facilities and programs. Our energy-producing windmills and conservation programs show our efforts to protect the environment. We stress education to better ourselves. The core values we embrace tout our commitment to moral character and values.

But what truly echoes the subject are the "active" good citizens within our ranks championing scores of worthy causes in our community. We've provided disadvantaged children toys for Christmas, gathered food for the hungry, raised money for a host of different organizations and lent our personal time to private groups -- the list goes on. Unfortunately, many of us haven't taken the time to get involved, and what often happens is a dedicated few carry the load for the rest. In this one area the fallback mantra of "I serve my country; therefore, I'm a good citizen" falls flat.

Volunteering and involvement are at the core of being good citizens. One thing many people don't realize is you don't have to break the bank to volunteer. With our busy schedules, we can't be expected to volunteer for every project that comes along, but we can jump in nevertheless. Pick a cause or two that suits your personality and get committed. The base and the community rely on us, and your involvement not only benefits them but will often enrich you in the process. I'm putting a call out - be one of those few, or should I say "FEW," good citizens and step up. Be that good neighbor, friend and volunteer that help make this community home.