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May Chaplain's Reflections

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

Here we are, a third of the way through 2021, and the mission continues for the Swamp Foxes. Many of our fellow Airmen are currently located at the tip of the spear, performing their best while putting their training to the test. Each CBT, PowerPoint presentation, TO document, and group huddle prepares us for the moment when we are called to serve.  Isn’t this what we train for? 

Recently I had the opportunity to receive the COVID-19 vaccine in my hometown and spoke with a few of the Army National Guard Soldiers who were facilitating the event. They were directing traffic, making copies of ID cards and checking on the vaccine recipients just to name a few of their duties. I also witnessed three Soldiers change someone’s flat tire while waiting in line. As I sat in my car, it gave me the opportunity to reflect on their service to our country. The ones I spoke with lived a few hours from their homes and voiced the satisfaction of the opportunity to serve, allowing them to temporarily leave their civilian jobs for a change of scenery. 

As a member of the SCANG, look for opportunities to serve by gaining more annual training days or hopping on special orders. If the timing does not align with your schedule, wait for the next one!  This June will be my tenth year serving and I’ve experienced multiple opportunities which were made available to me for additional training. For example, helping change an aircraft wing (back in my maintenance days). These times provided growth and preparedness in the event I was called to “go”.

The ability to “go” provides an opportunity to reflect on your readiness and spiritual resiliency. Will you be ready to “go” when called upon?  My faith daily motivates me to seek clarity and direction in my life which strengthens my desire to achieve goals and milestones. Just as the vaccine is strengthening our immune system, reach for your spiritual resiliency mechanism to empower you to achieve your success!

Galatians 6:9 reads, “And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up.”

Your Chaplain Corps is available to assist with any challenge you are facing. Do not hesitate to reach out and we will face the challenge together!

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