NEWPORT NEWS, Va. –
Service members from Langley Air Force Base's Air Land Sea Application Center partnered with the Peninsula Agency on Aging program to build food baskets for elderly community members in Newport News, Dec. 10, demonstrating the multi-service organization's commitment to the Tidewater community.
The volunteers built baskets that provided meals for more than 370 elderly. The bags were packed and loaded, and PAA will deliver the goods to program beneficiaries.
ALSA brings military branches of service together to unify them through tactical-level, multiservice doctrine. While they work hard writing joint solutions, U.S. Air Force Col. Robert Swaringen, ALSA director, said it's important to find the time to give back to the local community.
"Our members are great family-oriented, Americans and want to give back to the community," said Swaringen.
Frank Seeley, PAA delivery driver, said he enjoyed the presence and support of the ALSA members.
"It was great to have Service members here helping," said Seeley, "We cannot wait to have them come back, and we want them to return as soon as possible."
In addition to working with the agency, ALSA regularly assists the local Department of Veterans Affairs Hospital in Hampton.
U.S. Army Maj. Blake Keil, ALSA joint action officer, said members of ALSA appreciate the continued support the community offers through special recognition and events, and is dedicated to giving back.
"As Service members, we should all consider how we can serve our local community," he said. "There is no better feeling than knowing you helped someone in need."
The team plans to continue volunteering with the PAA, and plans to assist the agency in June 2014.
"By ALSA interacting with the PAA, we are able to truly do something for a group of people that are homebound and need assistance," said Keil. "With the holiday season approaching, it is a great time to reflect on how fortunate we are and how many opportunities there are to make a difference in the lives of others that may be less fortunate."