Dorm Airmen morale and readiness

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Magen M. Reeves
  • 341st Missile Wing Public Affairs
MALMSTROM AIR FORCE BASE, Mont. --  For Airmen living in the dorms, the switch from the holiday season and taking leave, to returning to work can potentially mean having to bid families farewell for a long period of time.

Six hundred and fifty of the base's force are Airmen living in the dorms, Airmen who are critical in providing the nation with safe, secure and effective operations.

First-term, single Airmen are typically the highest risk for a decline in morale and readiness.

According to Maj. Corey Bayliss, 341st Medical Operations Squadron, Mental Health Clinic, indicator signs to look for in an Airman in need include withdrawal from social interactions, a decline in morale, an agitated or irritable demeanor and  thoughts and feelings of depression. Developing an attitude of indifference in maintaining physical fitness, cleanliness and maintaining appearance are also indicators.

"Making sure you're staying engaged in trying new things and spending time with friends is important," said Bayliss. 

Malmstrom has several agencies and organizations on base that strive to offer Airmen a positive way to improve life for dorm dwellers.

The Airman Dorm Council is an organization specifically focused on Airmen living in dormitory housing.

"Junior Airmen spend a majority of their time in unaccompanied housing," said Senior Airman Sarah Markovich, 341st Contracting Squadron and ADC president. "If it's left up to them to improve their morale, they may not know where to start."

The ADC establishes positive recreational activities, helps develop a spirit of camaraderie and improves quality of life for dorm residents.

"These Airmen could be disoriented, anxious or removed from family, friends and familiar places," said Markovich. "If we take the initiative to help improve morale it gives them a good base to work from on building their resiliency. We are currently planning a pizza party in February for the dorm residents." 

The Airman's Council is another group on base that offers events for Airmen to improve the quality of life at Malmstrom.

"The Airman's Council wants to bring together the Airmen of Malmstrom and provide support of quality of life," said Airman 1st Class Cody Best, 341st Medical Support Squadron and Airman's Council president. "It's important to keep the morale running after the seasons. This month we will be having a free volleyball tournament."

Not only does the Airman's Council focus on the Airmen in the dorms, they also invite all junior enlisted Airmen to join activities, allowing the opportunity to build relationships within the Malmstrom junior enlisted Airmen.

"Through our morale boosting events, people have the chance to make long-lasting friendships and even meet more people outside of their normal circles," said Best.