When AFSA speaks, they listen Published April 1, 2013 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