AFSA: one voice, one vision

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Racheal Watson
  • 354th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
EIELSON AIR FORCE BASE, Alaska --  There are more than 260,000 active duty enlisted members in the Air Force, and with the help of the Air Force Sergeants Association, Airmen's voices are consistently heard on Capitol Hill.

AFSA, a non-profit organization that represents the interests of Air Force members, maintains a vigilant presence on Capitol Hill. It promotes enlisted concerns to enhance quality of life and assures the preservation of entitlements earned through service and sacrifice.

AFSA is always seeking new members to amplify their voice in the legislative scene and also supports the local community through their volunteer efforts.

"I originally joined as an Airman because it seemed to make sense to me to be a part of an organization that let people know what we needed," said Master Sgt. Stacey Pfau, Air Force Sergeants Association chapter 1474 vice president.

Any enlisted Airman on active duty or retired with an honorable discharge is eligible to join AFSA.

"It is a way for all our enlisted personnel voices to be heard, to make sure we are not being overlooked," said Tech. Sgt. Benjamin Ajisefinni, AFSA chapter 1474 veteran affairs trustee.

AFSA members combine their voices with thousands of others to influence daily decisions the government makes affecting active and retired personnel.

"You get to be part of an organization that represents us," said Pfau. "You may not see the immediate need now, but you do not want to wait until you need it."

In 2012, there were discussions of a three year pay freeze. Educational benefits were being examined, with tuition assistance being a target. There were also discussions of drastic changes to healthcare.

With AFSA giving its insight, there was a 1.7% pay raise, retirement and educational benefits remained unchanged and TRICARE rates had a small increase by the end of 2012.

"When you come in as an Airman, you don't have as many commitments, so you don't have that initial interest," said Pfau. "But as we are seeing things are affecting Airmen now as well."

Eielson's AFSA also offers volunteer opportunities in the community, including reaching out to the local retired community by visiting and annually making and distributing hygiene packets to homeless veterans.

Pfau also explained other benefits of being an AFSA member, including educational scholarship and grant opportunities, life and health insurance, and shopping and travel discounts.

"We need people to get involved," said Pfau. "We want more than just a lobby group. We also want to represent the Airmen here in the community to show that we have value and can bring something positive to the community."

For further information about AFSA or how to join, contact Master Sgt. Lorna Davenport, AFSA chapter 1474 membership chairman, at 377-1015 or visit AFSA's website at www.hqafsa.org.