"...We might see someone who is struggling..."

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Douglas Lorance
  • 9th Reconnaissance Wing Public Affairs

"While stationed in Alaska, I felt isolated and stuck in a rut, but then someone reached out to me and made me feel welcome. If it wasn't for them, I may have made the mistake of getting out of the Air Force. This is my second year as a Green Dot coordinator. The program focuses on prevention of sexual assault, domestic violence, and stalking. This is the second year of the training and while there were some hiccups last year, we learned how to improve going forward. This year addresses suicide prevention and the need to include people. We get caught up in our own personal bubble, but if we take a step back we might see someone who is struggling. A simple greeting or lunch invite could make a difference. Some may roll their eyes at these topics, but the fact is we can't stop this training because these issues are still present in our communities. Hopefully with this training, we can impact someone's life here."

Master Sgt. Mark Salzman, 9th Reconnaissance Wing plans & programs superintendent

Hometown: Sunrise, Florida