When AFSA speaks, they listen

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Jonathan Winters
  • 341st Missile Security Forces Squadron
MALMSTROM AIR FORCE BASE, Mont. --  Air Force Sergeants Association is the only association solely dedicated to representing enlisted men, women and their families.

It's more than just maintaining existing allowances ... it's also about contributing to the discussion in a way that lawmakers better understand Airmen's needs. In fact, because of AFSA's reputation, they have a by-name seat at the influential tables in both Congress and the Pentagon to help shape the tough policy decisions affecting the enlisted corps today.

Currently they are one of the loudest voices on the hill fighting for the return of our tuition assistance and a resolution to sequestration.

"Right now, it's more important than ever to have people join and be a part of AFSA," said Master Sgt. Colin Crandall, 341st Civil Engineer Squadron first sergeant and Chapter 1156 Council President.

The organization's countless contributions extend to dependents as well as the local community. AFSA has contributed more than $1.7 million in scholarship funding benefiting Air Force families. Additionally, the organization financially supports all of the 141 State Veterans' Homes and 55 Fisher Houses caring for military members and their families on a monthly basis.

Locally, Malmstrom's Chapter 1156 fingerprints can be felt throughout the wing and community. They lead the way in professional development as they sponsor Continue To Rise Seminars, noncommissioned officer professional education, senior noncommissioned officer professional education and bullet-writing classes. They have also co-chaired the Wing Sports Smack Down, lead March's volunteer effort for the Airmen's Attic and spearheaded a quarterly Adopt-A-Highway Program.

Malmstrom's Chapter 1156 meets the last Wednesday of every month at 11 a.m. at the Grizzly Bend. For more information on Malmstrom's AFSA, contact any of the following Chapter 1156 council members:

President: Master Sgt. Colin Crandall
Vice President: Senior Master Sgt. Jerry Hall
1st Trustee: Military Affairs - Staff Sgt. Timothy Lombardi
2nd Trustee: Civic Affairs - Staff Sgt. Ann Pastor
3rd Trustee: Legislative Affairs - Master Sgt. Samuel Shrewsbury
4th Trustee: Communications - Tech. Sgt. Jonathon Winters
5th Trustee: Membership - Staff Sgt. Adam Rideaux
Airman Activity Coordinator: Senior Airman Jennifer Favinger
Secretary: Tech. Sgt. Tashina McKnight
Treasurer: Tech. Sgt. Kristen Marfa
Senior Advisor: Master Sgt. Nicholas Sinnott
Other Officer: Sergeant at Arms - Master Sgt. Shannon Wells
Other Officer: Programs - Tech. Sgt. Scott Papponetti