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Andersen First Four Council cleans WWII Memorial, improves local community and pays respects

  • Published
  • By Airman Carissa Wolff
  • 36th Wing Public Affairs
Ten members of the Andersen First Four Council cleaned the World War II Memorial sponsored by Air Force Sergeants' Association Chapter 1560 June 6.

The Andersen First Four Council provides an outlet for Airmen seeking professional growth and striving to be an active part of improving the morale, welfare and quality of life of their peers.

According to the Airmen who volunteered for the effort, the time they spent on the memorial was well worth the effort. The WWII Memorial is located across the Pacific Air Forces Regional Training Center at Northwest Field.

"By cleaning up the off-base memorial, it not only shows respect for the retirees who live in the local community, but it also contributes to the beautification of this island," said Senior Airman Shane Dunaway, 36th Wing Public Affairs Air Force content editor and Andersen First Four Council president.

The volunteers mowed grass, swept debris off of the monument and picked up surrounding debris ensuring the memorial was in pristine condition.

"Just mowing the grass made the memorial look 10-times better," said Airman 1st Class Ryan Perkins, 36th Communications Squadron communications focal point controller. "I think it's important for members of professional organizations to volunteer in the local community because part of being in those organizations is going above and beyond your peers."

The memorial clean up was important to the Andersen First Four Council, especially since it was a chance to pay respects to those who have fallen.

"This volunteer effort gave our organization an opportunity to honor and show our respect for those who sacrificed their lives for freedom," Airman Dunaway said. "The memorial is a testament for those who paved the way for our military services today."

Currently, the Andersen First Four Council performs at least one volunteer effort per month and is constantly looking for more opportunities to help both the base and local communities.

"As Airmen stationed overseas, it is our duty to be ambassadors to the base and local communities," Airman Dunaway said. "Active volunteerism fosters cohesion and develops a rapport with our peers and residents of Guam."

For more information about the Andersen First Four Council or its volunteer efforts, contact Airman Dunaway at 366-2228.