Spiritual wellness focus of CAF day

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Rebecca R. Imwalle
  • 28th Bomb Wing Public Affairs
ELLSWORTH AIR FORCE BASE, S.D. --  In an effort to promote the spiritual pillar of the Comprehensive Airman Fitness concept among Airmen, base leadership conducted a series of activities, Feb.27.

"The objective of this CAF day was to help Airmen improve their spiritual fitness," said Dennis Wier, Ellsworth Community Support coordinator. "The spiritual pillar is one of the four pillars that make up the CAF concept. We all need to have a balance of all pillars to be resilient and face life's challenges."

Col. Kevin Kennedy, 28th Bomb Wing commander said that without strength in all four pillars, we may find ourselves not prepared to meet the challenges life will put before us.

"For some, the spiritual pillar may be the first source of strength, for others it may be the fourth," Kennedy said. "However, our most resilient Airmen will have some strength in all four pillars."

Second Lt. Peter Yusckat, 28th Medical Group Logistics Flight commander, was one of more than 30 base leaders that led small unit discussions for CAF day in their respective squadrons.

"It's important that people have a support system," Yusckat said. "Airmen need to know that even when they are going through difficult times, they have support to overcome obstacles. With the spiritual pillar being the most personal, it allowed each flight to connect on a deeper level. The time spent was well worth it to ensure and build upon each Airman's spiritual beliefs and to strengthen our character, spirit and values."

Chaplain (Maj.) David Knight, 28th Bomb Wing deputy wing chaplain, explained that the spiritual pillar has a different meaning for everyone.

"I see the spiritual pillar as an anchor," Knight said. "The only brake system ships used to have was an anchor. Anchors saved them from currents and held them to something bigger than themselves when things are trying to move them to a place they don't need to go."

Knight noted that much like a ship's anchor, the spiritual pillar can help Airmen stay centered and overcome challenges they may face in life.

Throughout CAF day, Airmen participated in activities designed to encourage them to find something they can turn to when they need support.

"The spiritual pillar gives me a sense of purpose and hope," said Chaplain (Capt.) Karlton Edison, 28th BW chaplain. "Airmen don't need to be religious to be spiritual. Spirituality can give us purpose and hope. No matter what comes our way, we know we can make it because we are a part of something bigger than ourselves."

Knight encourages all Airmen to strengthen their spirituality, regardless of whether or not they are religious.