D-M exceeds AFAF goal

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Jamie L. Coggan
  • 355th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
DAVIS-MONTHAN AIR FORCE BASE, Ariz. --  The Air Force Assistance Fund, a fund that benefits active duty, reserve, guard, retirees, surviving spouses and families, ended April 25, with D-M being one of only three Air Combat Command bases to meet its goal.

"We did not only set the example in ACC, but we set the example for the Air Force," said 2nd Lt. Michael Hargett, the installation project officer for AFAF. "We don't only "Fly, Fight, and Win" but we also live up to our core values, Integrity First, Service Before Self, and Excellence in All We Do."

The 355th Fighter Wing's goal this year was to raise $102,000. They exceeded their goal by more than $10,000.

"General Corley, the ACC commander, has consistently reminded us that our focus should be, people first, mission always. People First ... that is what the Air Force Assistance Fund is all about," said Col. Kent Laughbaum, 355th Fighter Wing commander. "The Desert Lightning Team at Davis-Monthan set a lofty goal for our AFAF campaign, and our Airmen soared past the goal. I am so very proud of our Airmen, military and civilian alike. Their Wingman spirit and generosity are the characteristics that make our country so strong and noble."

People may still contribute at any time through cash, check, money order or payroll deduction to the four funds, which include:

- The Air Force Aid Society, which provides Airmen and their families with worldwide emergency financial assistance, education assistance and an array of base-level community-enhancement programs.

- The Air Force Enlisted Village Indigent Widows' Fund, which supports the Air Force Village in Shalimar, Fla., near Eglin Air Force Base. The fund provides rent subsidy and other support to indigent widows and widowers of retired enlisted members ages 55 years and older.

- The Air Force Villages Indigent Widow's Fund, which supports the Air Force Village in San Antonio, a life-care community for retired officers, spouses, widows or widowers, and family members.

ยท The General and Mrs. Curtis E. LeMay Foundation, which provides rent and financial assistance to indigent widows and widowers of officers and enlisted members in their own homes and communities.

According to the AFAF official Web site, the AFAF was established to provide for an annual effort to raise funds for the charitable affiliates that provide support to Air Force families (active duty, retirees, reservists, guard and their dependents, including surviving spouses) in need.