LITTLE ROCK AIR FORCE BASE, Ark. -- The 19th Civil Engineer Squadron launched a new initiative as part of an effort to assist with maintaining and improving the grounds around Little Rock Air Force Base, Sept. 14.
Dubbed the Installation Excellence Team, the initiative is comprised of teams of volunteers from across the installation who perform tasks such as picking up any litter and downed tree limbs, re-striping roadways, as well as general landscaping.
“The Installation Excellence Team is a prime example of the personification of Herk Nation, it’s the belief no challenge is too great to conquer with the right attitude, skills and resources,” said Col. Derrick Floyd, 19th Mission Support Group commander. “This week, the team was focused on installation excellence … where we work, live and play.”
Installation leadership introduced the plan to help beautify Little Rock AFB, and the 19th CES took it upon themselves to organize volunteers to contribute to the wellness of the installation, said Staff Sgt. Justin Sanders, 19th CES structures craftsman.
“We knew this was going to be important because it gives Airmen the opportunity to feel like they are part of the base in more ways than just their day-to-day operations,” Sanders said. “They also get the opportunity to network with people from other career fields and different backgrounds of life as well.”
With a large turnout of volunteers, the 19th CES hopes the Installation Excellence Team initiative will continue forward on a regular basis, giving more Airmen the chance to participate.
“Airmen should get out of their comfort zone,” said Staff Sgt. Cortney Verone, 19th Operations Support Squadron aircrew flight equipment craftsman and volunteer. “Getting out there and making a difference on your own installation is a great way to build camaraderie with your fellow volunteers and Airmen.”