JBER ‘Top Three’ plan to pay it forward

Members of the Arctic Warrior Top 3 plan to host their second annual Pay it Forward initiative Oct. 6 at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, by distributing $2,000 in gift cards for on-base vendors to junior enlisted members and their families.

“Last year, the impact was amazing, from the smiles on people’s faces and the shock of receiving $20 to put gas in their tank,” said Master Sgt. Candace Anthony, 673d Force Support Squadron military personnel flight superintendent. “Especially now – in October, [when] the holidays are getting ready to come up.”

“We had one spouse last year who – when we handed her a $20 gift card, [she] literally cried – hugged us and cried because they were strapped for money,” she said. “It’s a great feeling to make any amount of impact on somebody’s day.”

The Arctic Warrior Top 3 is a private professional organization whose members make up the three highest enlisted ranks in the Air Force; master sergeant, senior master sergeant, and chief master sergeant.

“A lot of times, as an Airman, you might not get the thanks you deserve, so this is a way for us to say ‘Thank you,’” Anthony said. “E-4’s and below are the technicians in their career field and they do a lot of work, and when you become a SNCO you are primarily managing and are no longer in the trenches or turning wrenches.”

Last year, they gave away $1,350 within an hour, so this year they increased the dollar amount and believe they will pass out gift cards just as quickly because it will be right before a four-day weekend.

“I think this is a really great program and I’m glad the Top 3 are able to put their money toward … a good use, and it is a joy,” Anthony said. “It’s nice to be able to fundraise and for that money to make your heart feel good.”

The SNCOs will hand out gift cards individually. They will give out 75 $20 gas/AAFES gift cards, 40 $10 commissary gift cards and 20 $5 food court gift cards.