Defenders conduct book drive

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Janine Thibault
  • 354th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
EIELSON AIR FORCE BASE, Alaska --  The Eielson Air Force Base 354th Security Forces Squadron Defenders recently gathered and donated 1,241 books for the Literacy Council of Alaska.

Even with the unpredictable schedules of 354th SFS Airmen, the book drive allowed everyone in the squadron to be involved. Everyone could take time to donate books at nine collection points on base.

Defenders embraced the opportunity to make a difference in the community. Members of the group worked hard to amass a supply of books that could be used for the betterment of Alaskans.

"How many of us have books in our house that we will never read again?" said Master Sgt. Jill Victor, 354th Security Forces Squadron First Sergeant. "Why not share and give someone else the opportunity to read that book? Reading is the foundation of education and personal growth. If you have a book at home that you have read, chances are someone else would enjoy reading it too."

The volunteers donated the books to the LCA so they could contribute to the statewide helping agency. The books will be sanitized and categorized to go to the LCA bookstore or be distributed throughout Alaska.

The funds from selling books in the bookstore go to the Literacy Council, where the money benefits reading and other educational programs.

Books that are distributed are sent to more than 15 village facilities, from community centers to prisons.

"The program provides a print-rich environment to help break the cycle of poverty and better educate people and their families," said Hannah Hill, an LCA bookstore manager.

According to Ms. Hill, every book that is donated is appreciated and the LCA welcomes them all.

"The books we collected consisted of various topics for all ages and reading abilities. It was our goal to spark an interest in reading," said Sergeant Victor. "The contribution made by Defenders will be used to the fullest potential and no books will be wasted."

Some books will be used in schools where they can be delivered to appropriate age groups and grades to be used in school programs.

"If the books we donated sparked the interest of one child or adult, it was worth it. I believe reading for enjoyment is not as common [as it used to be]. Maybe the books will ignite a passion for reading," said Sergeant Victor.

With the Air Force spirit of pursuing education, Defenders took the extra step to reach out to others.
Defenders can be relied on to ensure installation security, civil peace and maintain order. In addition, they have demonstrated their ability to actively assist in the education of the community.