Fueled by kindness, first sergeants pay for gas

  • Published
  • By Kenji Thuloweit
  • 412th Test Wing Public Affairs
EDWARDS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. --  

Several lucky servicemembers and spouses received surprises at the Express gas station March 14. The Edwards First Sergeant Council conducted what they call a “random-act-of-kindness event.”

The first sergeants offered to pay for a fill-up and to pump gas for junior servicemembers who happened to be visiting the gas station with excellent timing.

For about an hour, the first sergeants scouted out young and unsuspecting servicemembers and spouses. When the motorists got out of their vehicles they were greeted with a smile and an offer they couldn’t/wouldn’t refuse.

“We tried to do this before pay day when younger Airmen and sister service members would probably appreciate a little help the most,” said Master Sgt. Steven Dale, 412th Medical Group first sergeant.

Dale said the first sergeants raise funds by conducting various events such as golf tournaments and also received donations from the Edwards Civilian-Military Support Group.

Navy Airman Laniesha Berg, VX-9 Detachment 1 (right) gets a surprise from Master Sgt. Brittany Ponder, 31st Test and Evaluation Squadron first sergeant, at the Express gas station March 14. The Edwards First Sergeants Council conducted a "random-act-of-kindness" event where they paid for and offered to pump gas for junior servicemembers and spouses. (U.S. Air Force photo by Kenji Thuloweit)

Navy Airman Laniesha Berg, VX-9 Detachment 1 (right) gets a surprise from Master Sgt. Brittany Ponder, 31st Test and Evaluation Squadron first sergeant, at the Express gas station March 14. The Edwards First Sergeants Council conducted a "random-act-of-kindness" event where they paid for and offered to pump gas for junior servicemembers and spouses. (U.S. Air Force photo by Kenji Thuloweit)
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