Class 11-01 Helps One of Our Own

  • Published
  • By Capt. Hunter Letchman
  • 14th Operations Support Squadron
COLUMBUS AFB, Miss. --  When Class 11-01 started pilot training, the Senior Ranking Officer, Captain Chris Duncan, wanted to schedule a group activity to help bring the class together. Capt. Duncan knew from previous experience that Habitat for Humanity would be a great choice and gathered 11 volunteers from his class. 

When the group showed at the worksite on October 24, they immediately knew that it would be a very busy day. The house that they were building was for Retired USAF Technical Sergeant David Wilson, a former Screaming Eagle weather forecaster who received custody of his brother's children, bringing his household to a total of 15 members. Obviously, a family of that size was going to need a substantial house; in fact, the house that class 11-01 was helping to build was basically twice the size of a normal house. Everyone was surprised at the sheer size of the project itself, but after the initial shock wore off, they dove into the job, which consisted mostly of painting. However, one student's expertise was utilized extensively: Lt David Rose, an electrical engineering major, helped the HFH electrician wire and install lights throughout the house. All in all, Class 11-01 put in 66 man hours during the course of the day, bringing the house that much closer to completion. Capt. Duncan said that it was "truly an honor and privilege to be able to help out an Air Force brother in a time of need." 

Habitat for Humanity continually needs help for ongoing construction projects and is particularly in need of people with special skills, such as roofing or electrical work. As a great group project, or just a way to spend a Saturday afternoon, HFH offers a rewarding experience and a way to give back to the community. If you are interested in helping, contact HFH director Kathy Arinder at 329-2501.