School supplies foster community support Published Sept. 28, 2018 By Staff Sgt. Brittany E. N. Murphy 39th Air Base Wing Public Affairs INCIRLIK AIR BASE, Turkey -- Being a U.S. Airman means being flexible, adaptable and innovative, but it also means caring about others and going above and beyond the call of duty. For U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Jordan Walker and Airman 1st Class Valtrice Sullivan, 39th Security Forces Squadron contingency members, going above and beyond meant giving back to the local community. Walker and Sullivan took it upon themselves to make a difference in the surrounding community by raising funds to provide school supplies for Turkish students of the Necmiye Coskuntuncel Ilkokulu Primary School. During their personal time, they created a fundraising account and reached out to friends, families, members of Incirlik Air Base, as well as at their home stations, for donations. Through their actions of outreach and community service, they raised approximately $1,500 for school supplies. This fundraiser stemmed from the members’ love for education and the impact it can have on someone’s life. According to Sullivan, growing up in an area where not many people graduated high school, Sullivan’s mother focused greatly on hers and her sister’s education. “I love kids and I love giving back,” said Sullivan. “I want our future to be better; and education is something a person cannot take from someone else.” As a way to surprise the children, backpacks, notebook paper, pencils and other school materials were placed in the classrooms the weekend before school started, so when the children arrived for their first day of school, their supplies were waiting. Walker, Sullivan and members of Incirlik AB displayed their commitment to serving the local community, despite not having a personal connection to the school. Whether supporting the local community or learning about the culture, Incirlik AB Airmen take pride in their ability to show appreciation for the host nation’s hospitality.