AFSA Battle Cry
365 days ago many of us were looking forward to see what the new year, 2009, would bring. Some of us wished for riches, to loose weight, quit smoking or take a long awaited trip. However, some us in AFSA leadership positions were looking forward to growing our chapters, particpating in base and community events, attaining “High-Flyer” or “Sky-High” status, attending our Division or Interational PACs or just “doing good things” for our chapters. Looking back on 2009, how do you feel you did—how do you feel your chapter did?
As a recent transplant from European Division 16 to the Midwest Division 89, I have noticed a vast difference in AFSA participation and leadership. Granted, overseas we were more “captive” where as we shared a common theme (Being away from home) and thus I believe we “gelled” better as an AFSA team.
Stateside it seems it is a bit different. Everyone seems to have a different drive, other things to do and a true “Team AFSA” spirit seems to be a challenge. As we prepare to hold our annual elections, it is of paramount importance that we select the leaders who are that “LEADERS” and who have AFSA’s best intentions at heart.
Friends, we need to rally together and forge a solid T.E.A.M in 2010! We are embracing a new year, a new decade and yes—a new challenge. I encourage each member to “Sign a Friend—In 2010”! Perhaps this can be our International battle cry. If every member signed just one new person, we would double our strenghh, our voice—overnight. Just think of how powerful we would be then! Our mamouth stancem giant voice and heavy presence in Washington would ensure that our pay and benefits remain as good if not better than they were in the past.
AFSA Leaders, I encourage each one of you to step-up and take charge of your chapters. If you need help, let me know! If I can’t help you, I know people who know people and collectively we will make your dream a reality. I encourage each chapter to start a website if they don’t already have one. Check out www.afsachapters.com and here you can start your 2010 with a FREE AFSA Website for your chapter.
My brothers and sisters in AFSA I wish you all the best of success in the coming year! Again, please embrace my battle cry of “Sign a friend—In 2010” and lets double our strength today! Are you up for the challenge!
HOORAH!
Matthew R. “Mad Dog” Becker
Division 89
AFSA Chapter 984