Project AF WingMom

I'm a proud parent of an active Airman.  When he graduated from BMT (Basic Military Training) I was able to witness firsthand and be a part of the joyous reunion between graduating Airman and their family and friends.  Click here to read about my BMT experience.

 

While enjoying my time with my son, I was also very aware of the Airman who had no family or friends around.  Now I'm not talking about those that couldn't afford to travel.  Or were unable to take off work, or those that were too sick or elderly.  I mean just those that didn't care for one reason or another.

That got me to thinking about how many of our young people start off their military careers with little or no support or encouragement.  No letters at mail call.  No happy reunions at BMT graduation to look forward to. 

I thought to myself - maybe I could do something.  You know, something to change that.  I decided I wanted to "adopt" an Airman and become his/her AFWingMom.  I knew that I wanted to be that person.  The one to try to connect with them and be a source of encouragement.  That person that writes them letters to hopefully brighten their day and give them hope that they can make it through BMT.  The one that stands cheering as they run by on the Airman's run.  That person that beams proudly as they pass in review. 

I've heard of various "projects" in the past and I've always wanted to have one.  It sounded cool. 

I then realized I have a project.  Project AFWingMom.  And before I over analyzed and/or overwhelmed myself with the particulars I decided to just start doing pieces of my master plan. 

And so it begins with me writing letters to a friend that joined the AF in December '09 - Cody.  Now obviously I wrote letters to my son while he was in BMT but Cody was the first non-family member that I was going to be writing.  I met another young man at my work and even though we had only actually spoken twice I wrote him several letters as well while he was in BMT.  His name is Jonathan.  Another friend, D'shon,  has joined and will be receiving letters from me as well. 

Now up to this point the Airmen I've been writing to all have a support system in place.  I'd like my project to focus more on those that really don't have anyone.  And of course any time someone I know or hear about that joins I'd be more than happy to write to them.  But you've got to start somewhere.

So that's my idea.  I'd love to hear what you think about it.  I'll be on the lookout for my next Airman.  Maybe I'll reach out to a recruiter or maybe I'll meet them some other way.  Maybe one of you reading this will let me know of someone who could use an AFWingMom in their life.  :)  I'm not 100% sure how the next Airman will come into my life but I am sure that Project AFWingMom has begun.

I created a facebook page to connect with others that are either going through the BMT process or have gone through it and are willing to share their learning's and experiences to help others.  Networking and support groups do help and I hope mine is something that will make an impact on others.  Check it out ~ AF WingMoms and come be a part of the fun.

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