AL UDEID AIR BASE, Qatar -- In the early morning hours of Oct. 31, while many slept at Al Udeid Air Base, Qatar, more than 20 professionals conducted the chaplain led Blitz Program.
The program, which began in August 2015, is designed to show airmen, especially those working late, that they are important to the 379th Air Expeditionary Wing and vital to its success, said Chaplain (Capt.) Christopher De Luise.
“The purpose of the ‘Blitz’ is to join the base helping agencies together to visit airmen who may not receive much visitation because of non-traditional schedules and shift-times,” De Luise said. “These airmen keep the mission going around the clock while the rest of us recover. The goal is to provide extra care and concern for these airmen and make sure they are getting the services they need.”
Teams consisting of one chaplain and two reps from other helping agencies took time to visit with 379th Expeditionary Operations Group airmen.
Staff Sgt. Amanda Bennett, 379th Chaplain’s Office chaplain’s assistant, helped organize the night’s activities and said the Blitz Program means a lot to her.
“It’s important we take care of our airmen and let them know they’re appreciated,” she said.
Bennett recalled her time as a force support airman working 12-hour shifts. She said she appreciated it when her leadership would visit her during her work day and she empathizes with airmen who may feel disconnected.
“For airmen working mid-shift, overnight or really odd hours, they may not see very many people. It’s vital we visit with them so they know the services available to them,” Bennett said.
At every stop, each team spent several minutes meeting with airmen and learning about their jobs. They also delivered candy and thanked every airman for what they do.
“I was surprised by the visit,” said Senior Airman Leslie Rox, a 379th Expeditionary Operations Support Squadron aircrew flight equipment technician.
“Any time someone stops by its good,” Rox said. “This was the first visit we’ve had since I’ve been here. It’s a big morale boost.”
The night featured many visits, smiling faces and concluded with a B-1B Lancer tour.
“Just as it’s important for us to meet with our airmen and let them know about the services available to them, it’s equally important for us to better understand their mission,” De Luise said.
“What our airmen do is important and we are supporting that greater cause,” he added.