Students, instructors give back to community

Published Nov. 29, 2006
By Staff Sgt. Amanda Mills
Public Affairs

Vance Air Force Base, Okla. -- Members of the 33rd Flying Training Squadron R and S flights made quick work Monday of loading and unloading used books and tables for the Hospice Circle of Love in Enid.
The student and instructor pilots transported the items from the hospice's storage location to Oakwood Mall for a book sale today and Saturday.
The volunteer effort began when 2nd Lt. Anna Whitehead, R flight, attended a volunteer training class with Mary Ann McRoberts, the hospice's volunteer coordinator.
"I told her our biggest problem was moving the books, so she said that was easy and she'd get volunteers from her squadron to help," Ms. McRoberts said.
More than 15 people showed Monday, and had the first load of four vehicles on the road in less than an hour.
"This was just a Godsend," Ms. McRoberts said. "This is always such a problem to do, all this help is just awesome. I almost cried when I heard everyone was coming."
The squadron members are just as happy to help the community.
"Enid is a very strong supporter of Vance (Air Force Base)," said 2nd Lt. Kyle Jensen, student pilot. "When we get the time, it's great to help show our appreciation by giving it back."