Operation Warmheart for cold nights

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Andrew Helmkamp
  • 319th Air Base Wing Public Affairs
GRAND FORKS AIR FORCE BASE, N.D. --  While many people experience some sort of financial difficulties in their lifetime, airmen around the world can rest assured knowing that there is always a 'warmheart' waiting to help.

Master Sgt. Michael Raby, who serves as the first sergeant for the 319th Comptroller Squadron and the Wing Staff Agencies, said the Team Grand Forks AFB First Sergeants' organization runs "Operation Warmheart" to provide emergency funds for junior enlisted airmen who are in need.

The program is funded via donations from base personnel, community members and local businesses. Airmen can use the money to purchase food, gas, to make a house payment or for any number of other expenses without the need for requesting a loan or grant.

"It's a great feeling ... to know you can help your airmen quickly without jumping over a bunch of hurdles," said Raby. "This program is owned by first sergeants so the reaction time is quick."

One of Raby's favorite Warmheart stories is about helping an airman reunite with her daughter. While accomplishing her Air Force Basic Military Training, the airman sent her daughter to live with the girl's grandmother.

Raby said that after arriving at Grand Forks, the airman wanted to go home to pick up her daughter, but she didn't have enough money.

"The first sergeants provided money to offset the cost of airline tickets so she could get home and meet with her child for the holidays," he said.

The holiday season is the busiest time of year for Operation Warmheart. Raby said the Angel Tree initiative really helps out during that season.

"The Angel Tree is one such program where the first sergeants use the money garnered throughout the year to purchase toys for families that need a little extra help or cheer during the holidays," Raby said. "It is completely anonymous ...and it isn't only provided for families with money issues. We also provide the gifts to simply show that the base cares for its people."

This past year the Angel Tree had 115 requests, and all were quickly fulfilled.

"The Operation Warmheart program is important to first sergeants because it covers the root of what we do - taking care of airmen," Raby said.

One airman who received Operation Warmheart benefits last year for Thanksgiving said he was thankful for the program.

"Operation Warmheart helped me and my family greatly last year," said Airman 1st Class Zachiah Roberson, 319th Air Base Wing Public Affairs photojournalist. "It's not easy to support a family of soon-to-be-three as a junior enlisted member, so the gift card given to me was an awesome boost for our Thanksgiving dinner."

Those interested in giving to the program, or making a request for Operation Warmheart assistance, should see their unit first sergeant.