Network 5/6 builds future AF leaders

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Shane Dunaway
  • 36th Wing Public Affairs
ANDERSEN AIR FORCE BASE, Guam --  Noncommissioned officers in the Air Force have many expectations. They're charged with being leaders, mentors and to provide counsel to senior leaders in the chain of command. 

As members of Network 5/6, Team Andersen staff and technical sergeants receive ample opportunities to build these skills as well as make an impact in people's lives on and off base. 

"As president of Network 5/6 and as an NCO, my mission is to inspire participation in something bigger than yourself," said Staff Sgt. Terrence Baptiste, Network 5/6 president. "One of the reasons we are the greatest Air Force in the world is because we encourage well-roundedness, and being involved in your base and community is a big part of that." 

Some of the volunteer efforts Network 5/6 supports include Airmen Against Drunk Driving, Special Olympics, science fairs, and on- and off-base 5Ks. Network 5/6 also holds several events geared toward networking within the base. 

Additionally, the organization has some major projects lined up in the near future.
"We're currently working on a scholarship program that will become available before May," Sergeant Baptiste said. "We've also pulled together with other private organizations [such as] Top 3 and First Four to do a massive membership drive March 27 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the base exchange." 

Active Network 5/6 members help set a positive standard for the Airmen tier to follow. 

"We have several briefings throughout the base we participate in [including] being the first term airman center supervisor panel," said Tech. Sgt. Tesha Boyd, 36th Force Support Squadron and active member of Network 5/6. "We help brand new Airmen understand what is expected of them when they get to their work environment as well as what to expect from their supervisor." 

Network 5/6 offers two options for membership: $20 dues for a year membership or $5 per quarter. According to Sergeant Boyd, one of the biggest challenges Network 5/6 faces is participation. 

"We need more people to attend the meeting," Sergeant Boyd said. "We are here to help and would [love] for every E-5 and E-6 to have a voice." 

For more information on Network 5/6, contact Sergeant Baptiste at 366-7013 or come out to the meetings held every fourth Thursday at 3:30 p.m. at the Top of the Rock.