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MOUNTAIN HOME AIR FORCE BASE, Idaho - Storytellers seems to be a
rising star in the Air Force world, but what is it exactly? And
where did it come from? Storytellers was created in 2012 at Incirlik
Air Base, Turkey, and has since made its way to Air Force bases
around the world, allowing individuals to share their raw and
personal stories to inspire and encourage others.
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Lt. Col. Michael Lawrence, 366th Maintenance Group commander, speaks to a group of Gunfighters and opens up about a difficult time he faced in his career. During an event called Storytellers at Mountain Home Air Force Base, Idaho, Jan. 4, 2016, airmen had the opportunity to share with their fellow Gunfighters about times when their resiliency has been tested and how they were able to overcome it. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Malissa Lott)
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“I think the goal here is to allow others to share their
stories,” said Senior Master Sgt. James Mitchell II, 366th
Communications Squadron Cyber Operations Flight
superintendent. “Sometimes being able to talk about your
problems and share your experiences can really help in the
healing process ... On the flip side, it may touch one person
in the audience who may be struggling with a similar
situation and give them the strength and courage to ask for
help.”
The program not only encourages other airmen
and creates awareness, but allows everyone to get to know
their peers on a deeper, more personal level, resulting in
stronger relationships.
“It's incredible the bond that is formed after hearing
stories,” said Master Sgt. Ann Mitchell, 366th Force Support
Squadron Sustainment Services Flight acting superintendent.
“You feel closer to them because you took the time to get to
know them; everyone has a story ... It's important to take the
time to find out what it is.”
Not only does
Storytellers strengthen peer-to-peer relationships, but it
also reinforces openness with leadership.
“I think
it's important to get to know your airmen and hear their
story because these simple actions help build trust and
relationships,” James said. “It shows your airmen that you
care and that you are willing to listen.”
With a
diverse group of individuals coming together to fly, fight
and win, it's essential to support each other, explained
Ann. Every different story leaves its own impact on the
audience.
“Hearing these stories may be just the
thing people need to get through a tough point in their
life; it may give them the strength to share their own story
or even the courage to ask for help,” James said. “In the
end, I feel getting to know our airmen on this personal
level will not only make the Gunfighter community stronger,
but the Air Force as well.”
By U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Malissa Lott
Provided
through DVIDS
Copyright 2016
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