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Commentary Search

November Chaplain's Reflections

  • Published
  • By Chaplain (1st Lt.) Kirby Whitley
  • 169th Fighter Wing

“For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven.” Ecclesiastes 3:1

The year 2020 has had its fair share of challenges. Travel restrictions, social distancing, a quarantine and I am sure there are many others which are overlooked!  In June while attending training, I was removed from my billeting with a broken water pipe. Water was dripping down the side of the wall which did not seem to be a big problem but I called CE. The foreman stopped by and said he would take care of it. So, I went to bed. 6 o’clock in the morning came early and when my feet hit the floor, I knew something was wrong. The entire bedroom had wet carpet!  The water source was not shut off and it remained running all night. Needless to say, I had to move out and find a new room!  That is just one example of how this year has been a challenge.

My room at training faced an open field where I was able to watch younger Airmen running, learning to march, and at times getting an ear full from a training instructor!  I would catch myself thinking of my early beginnings of Air Force training and low and behold, I am still in training!  The learning never ends and we must never cease to better ourselves. These times which we find ourselves are difficult and discovering the coping mechanisms can be challenging.  

With the holiday season upon us there are fellow Airmen who may need an encouraging word or the presence of their Wingman. The SCANG provides a unique opportunity to serve our country alongside our friends and maybe our neighbors. The Airmen I saw outside my window could be an Airman in your shop. They could be leaning on you for guidance and wisdom as we all learned from our various training experiences.

Each moment we come together, the mission is to be ready and stay current for the future challenges which may come our way. Will you be ready?

Our country is experiencing unrest that many of us have never witnessed but we still have a mission to serve our State and Nation. The mission continues.

With two months left in 2020 there is much to do before this year comes to an end. Our enemies prowl, seeking for opportunities to devour. Stay resilient, stay strong, stay vigilant and never forget your foundations that brought you to serve this great nation.

If you desire more information or support on spiritual strength or religious provisions, please call the SCANG Chaplain Corps office at 803-647-8265.