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Gen. Mike Minihan, Commander of Air Mobility Command, visits the Niagara Falls Air Reserve Station June 8, 2024.

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Service before self: the 914th lends a helping hand to comrades

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Andrew Caya
  • 914th Airlift Wing
NIAGARA FALLS AIR RESERVE STATION --  "This time of year brings out the best in people," said Mr. Jim Germain, Airman and Family Readiness Officer , as he stood among countless toys and food items at the Niagara Falls Air Reserve Station Chapel Annex during the December Unit Training Assembly.

Airmen of the 914th Airlift Wing have been busy donating both toys and non-perishable food items to the 914th Airmen and Family Readiness Team for distribution to unit members who are struggling to make ends meet this holiday season.

Airman and Family Readiness Non Commissioned Officer In Charge, Master Sgt. Marty Viggato, stated that the entire Airman and Family Readiness section works as a team to support dozens of Air Force Families on station.

"The program is totally anonymous," said Viggato. We have supported more than 35 families at once during the past years."
Although several outside agencies such as VFW posts, and local businesses donate and deliver items to support unit Airmen, Viggato is most pleased about Wingmen stepping up and doing a great thing for their brothers and sisters in arms.

"This is just awesome," said Viggato as he gestured around the toys almost overflowing from the base Chapel pews. "It's just instant satisfaction for us on the Family Support Team because you see the instant immediate of Airman helping Airman."

In addition to individuals supporting their comrades, the units on base also do their own thing to support 914th Airmen.

"The 30th Aerial Port Squadron has been an outstanding supporter of this program," said Germain. "So has the 914th Aeromedical Evacuation Squadron, and 914th Aeromedical Staging Squadron."

"The people come to us and ask 'what can we do? How can we serve'", said Master Sgt. Savine Marshall, an Airman and Family Readiness specialist.

Marshall stressed that Airmen have done more than just donate.

"If the friends of an Airman see their friend needs help, they are highly encouraged to get that person what they need. To reiterate, this program is entirely confidential; don't be shy."

The Family Support team also stressed that it is not too late to utilize this program.
"We come in early, we stay late, we even make deliveries across western New York and northern Pennsylvania as late as the 23rd of December," said Viggato.

After the holidays, the Family Support team stores the remaining toys for Airmen who need toys for their child's birthday. The food is donated to local Veterans' food service locations. "It all goes to someone who needs it," said Germain.

If you know an Airman or a unit family who is in need of assistance please contact Airman and Family Readiness at 716-236-2097 or 914aw.familysupport@us.af.mil .