JOINT BASE LANGLEY-EUSTIS, Va. – -- Airmen from the 36th Intelligence Squadron volunteered a few hours of their time to support the Hampton Veterans Affairs Medical Center, May 3.
It wasn’t hard to spot all the volunteers in their red 36th IS spirit tee-shirts as they swarmed the building and got right down to work with an abundance of enthusiasm.
“It was really great having so many volunteers turn out to help with cleaning and organizing the facility, which provides one-stop shopping for our veterans who need things like clothing, personal hygiene items and other necessities,” said Monique Harris, recreational therapist with the Hampton Veterans Affairs Medical Center.
Volunteers could be seen cleaning everything from windows, walls and floors with sanitizer wipes, to organizing bookshelves with stacks of reading materials and organizing storage areas of items intended for distribution to veterans.
“It really means a lot to help others, especially those who have served,” said Staff Sgt. Shaniqua, a volunteer from the 36th IS. “It gives me a good feeling – kind or like being a superhero.”
Event coordinator, Capt. Trevion, 36th IS, was easy to spot as he looked like a conductor synchronizing volunteers in a concerted effort like musicians in a band.
“It is very satisfying to get the squadron out as a unit and participate in an effort to give back to the community we belong to,” he said.
As the volunteer effort came to a close and all the trash and cleaning materials were collected, the unit paused for a group photo with Harris.
“Today’s event really drives home the concept of service before self,” said Lt. Col. Richard Major, 36th IS commander. “These types of opportunities strengthen the fabric of military and community relationships and impress on our Airmen the importance of giving back to the community.”
The 36th Intelligence Squadron is part of the 363rd ISR Group under the 363d ISR Wing headquartered at Joint Base Langley-Eustis.