AL UDEID AIR BASE, Qatar- Taking part in a professional organization, such as the First 4, at Al Udeid Air Base, Qatar, provides U.S. Air Force Airmen between the ranks of Airman to Senior Airman an opportunity to learn, hone new skills and receive mentorship.
A sub-committee within the First 4, called Operation Community, is helping U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Alexandra Haytasingh and Senior Airman Zachery Dwyer, both sub-committee leads for the operation community, to develop these skills.
“As a Security Forces member, I come in contact with multiple people with a broad spectrum of rank,” said Haytasingh. “I must be able to speak clear, concise and calmly. Being involved with the First 4, I am able to hone my ability to speak in larger groups of personnel from all organizations and units.”
The purpose of Operation Community is to engage in base cleanup, which contributes to a cleaner living environment. Twice a month, Haytasingh and Dwyer advertise, gather equipment and supplies and set up a location to start from.
“Organizing this event requires planning, sending emails out to Al Udeid Air Base personnel and gathering the proper material from the 379th Expeditionary Force Support Squadron,” said Dwyer. “It is teaching me how to be a leader outside of my work center by setting up all the requirements needed for a successful base cleanup and put it into effect.”
Since Haytasingh and Dwyer been in this position, they have conducted four base cleaning events. The return is measured in the total number of trash bags collected. So far, 103 bags for trash have been collected. With each successful base cleaning, Haytasingh and Dwyer are improving the quality of life in the community of Al Udeid Air Base and developing leadership skills. The base cleanup event is held twice a month and is open to anyone that would like to help.