Rising Six get involved

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Luke Olson
  • 114th FW
Joe Foss Field, S.D. --  The 114th Fighter Wing Rising Six, formerly called the Junior Enlisted Council, holds a meeting once a month which focuses on supplying leadership opportunities, helping Airmen with professional development, and giving back to the local community.

The Rising Six is open to all enlisted members currently assigned to the South Dakota Air National Guard who are technical sergeant and below. Participation is completely voluntary and each month about 30-40 Airmen attend the meetings said Staff Sgt. Reggan Labore, 114th FW Rising Six President.

"The mission of the Rising Six is to maintain high moral amongst it's members and promote stronger relationships between the South Dakota Air National Guard and the families of the enlisted Airmen," said Labore. "We want to enhance the career and leadership potential of junior enlisted members of the South Dakota Air National Guard as well as promote an avenue of communication to the Wing commander and staff through the council representatives."

The Rising Six aims to prepare today's Airmen to be tomorrow's chief master sergeants by: reinforcing AF core values, improving unit cohesiveness, serving the community, and providing leadership opportunities.

"Volunteering and building a presence within the community is huge for us," said Staff Sgt. Jonathan Leffring, member of the Rising Six. "It's important to let the community know that we are here for them and willing to help."

Members of the Rising Six recently volunteered their time to help serve meals at The Banquet in Sioux Falls, S.D. The Banquet specializes in serving food and fellowship to the less fortunate citizens of the city of Sioux Falls and surrounding area.