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Building bonds: Airman recognized by community

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Kathryn R.C. Reaves
  • 20th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
SHAW AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. --  Across the Air Force, Airmen of all ranks are encouraged to become leaders.

As Airmen become NCOs, they are charged with actively encouraging and motivating those around them to become involved in unit and base activities by leading the way.

On Feb. 14, the Greater Sumter Chamber of Commerce’s Military Affairs Committee recognized Staff Sgt. Angela Duff, 20th Logistics Readiness Squadron quality assurance evaluator, as the 2016 Military Citizen of the Year for her contributions to the on- and off-base communities surrounding Shaw Air Force Base, South Carolina.

The award is presented to individuals based on merit and is used as a way for the chamber to say thanks for what they do.

During the 55 hours of either working on a beautification project, caring for the homeless, or organizing and supporting moral functions on base, Duff invited others to help her strengthen the bonds between the local area and Shaw.

“If my Airmen are volunteering, I’m volunteering with them,” said Duff. “Or, if I have something going on, I’m bringing them with me. It’s helping newer Airmen learn the community, and getting them used to volunteering and helping out.”

However, Duff doesn’t just volunteer to help the Airmen around her. She volunteers because of how it makes her feel and because she feels connected to those she helps.

Duff is a team player, said Maj. Rahsul Freeman, 20th LRS commander. She is never looking for the spotlight when she organizes these activities or volunteers, but acknowledges that personal times can sometimes be the best time to donate.

In her past, Duff grew up without electricity or water at home for a couple years and struggled living a daily life without other individuals knowing what was going on behind the scenes. She now uses these past difficulties to relate to those she helps.

Duff said individuals who would like to volunteer in the community should become involved in volunteer opportunities that mean something to them. By volunteering to do things they have a passion to do, volunteers are more likely to continue.