Commentary: 442nd Fighter Wing volunteers stand up for KC 'stand-down'

  • Published
  • By Senior Master Sgt. Todd Sieleman
  • 442nd Aircraft Maintenance Squadron
WHITEMAN AIR FORCE BASE, Mo. --  Consider this the next time you pull on your uniform. The American military and its members - above all other aspects of society - should be honored and revered, for without the soldier's sacrifice no other aspect of society could possibly exist.

You and I wear our uniforms proudly because it's a symbol that associates us with the honorable task of stepping up and defending our country against those who want to see it destroyed. Today the American public appreciates the soldier, but it hasn't always been that way.

During the Vietnam War, returning service members were often greeted with disdain and abuse. I believe today's continued support of the military member is, in part, an attempt by society to correct that wrong. People want a tangible means to show that dishonoring the veteran is not a mistake to be repeated.

The Heart of America "Stand-down," an annual event in support of homeless veterans in Kansas City, provides an opportunity to honor some of our veterans. This volunteer-driven event accomplishes many things, but chief among these is a chance to simply say, "thank you."

Stand-down is traditionally a term that represents an area away from battle, allowing service members a chance to unwind. For any number of reasons, a large percentage of today's homeless are veterans and the Kansas City event gives homeless vets a respite from life on the streets. Numerous civic organizations pitch in to provide resources and volunteers to assist in the Stand-down program.

This year's event ran over a two-day period, June 22 and 23. Starting on a Friday night, the homeless veterans who participated stayed in a "tent-city" and entertained themselves with Karaoke (some of the singers weren't half bad - particularly the James Brown imitator).

After a peaceful night of sleep in a protected environment from the dangers of the street, a hot breakfast was served. Throughout the day, volunteers provided additional services including free haircuts, showers, counseling, medical care and the biggest draw of all, clothing issue.

The 442nd Fighter Wing has become involved in this activity and provides an opportunity for wing members to take part. This year, numerous Wing members volunteered and provided unmatched support. A huge thank-you goes out to all who participated in this year's event and also to those who have supported the Stand-down in the past. Their efforts have paid off. In the end, volunteers assisted 760 veterans and provided a host of benefits.

But perhaps the biggest benefit was to our volunteers who may have captured a grateful smile on the face of a veteran who finally felt appreciated for their service and sacrifice.

Editor's note: Retired Chief Master Sgt. Steve Kottman and Sergeant Sieleman, the 442nd AMXS First Sergeant, serve on the Heart of America Stand-down committee and are points of contact for volunteers.