First sergeants provide Thanksgiving meals

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Anania Tekurio
  • 28th Bomb Wing Public Affairs
ELLSWORTH AIR FORCE BASE, S.D. --  More than 170 Airmen and their families received free Thanksgiving meals Nov. 22, during an event held in conjunction with Operation Warmheart - a national program that provides financial grants to Air Force families.

Efforts to help assemble food baskets containing everything Airmen would need to prepare a Thanksgiving meal began months ago, when Ellsworth first sergeants started conducting food drives in the base Commissary.

"We wanted to make sure everyone could enjoy a Thanksgiving meal with their families," said Master Sgt. Joseph Wengler, 28th Medical Group first sergeant. "With the help of ALS (Airman Leadership School) students, we were able to make all of the baskets, and distribute them to junior enlisted families who would benefit from them the most."

Each food basket contained ingredients to make a number of traditional Thanksgiving dishes including mashed potatoes, pumpkin pie, green bean casserole and turkey or ham.

Senior Airman Jesus Ortiz, 28th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron sortie support technician, said that he enjoyed volunteering his time to help his fellow Airmen.

"The holidays are a special time for all of us," Ortiz said. "That's why helping those who may be struggling or going through difficult times is worth-the-while."

Wengler said that in addition to Thanksgiving meals, Airmen who need clothes, furniture and other items can contact their first sergeant and schedule a visit to the Ellsworth Diamond Mart.

"Taking care of people is what we do," said Wengler. "Whether it is through OW or the First Sergeants Council, we are here to help. Even though the holiday season can be one of joy, it can also be a stressful time. We just want our fellow Airmen to know we are here to help."