An F-35A Lightning II, assigned to Hill Air Force Base, Utah, takes off. (U.S. Air Force photo by Anthony Pham)

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Hill Reservists ensure nobody goes without

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Daniel Durbin
  • 419th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
HILL AIR FORCE BASE, UT --  Some 419th Fighter Wing Airmen find it hard to make ends meet. These Airmen may feel desperate wondering how the utility bill will be paid, or where the rent money will come from, or if they can afford to buy Christmas gifts for their children.

That's where the 419th Fighter Wing Diamond Heart program steps in.

The Diamond Heart program is all about Airmen helping airmen and the wing taking care of its own, according to Elizabeth Atisme, the 419th Fighter Wing Command Chief Master Sergeant.

"This is a first sergeant program designed to help Airmen throughout the year," said Chief Atisme.

419th FW first sergeants have been raising money and collecting donations to support Reserve Airmen here for more than 30 years. They gave the program the name "Diamond Heart" three years ago, Chief Atisme said.

The money raised in the Diamond Heart program can be used to pay an Airman's bills, buy their groceries, or even purchase presents for families during the holiday season, said Chief Atisme.

"We do what we can to help," the chief added. "It's typical of the 419th to take care of their people."

Many Airmen feel their pride won't allow them to ask for financial help, even in times of crisis, said Chief Atisme. Most of the requests for donations actually come from a needy Airman's "wingman" who notices their co-worker struggling to make ends meet, Chief Atisme said.

The money for the Diamond Heart program is raised through various fund raisers, said Chief Atisme. Last week, members of the 419th FW top three counsel wrapped presents at the Base Exchange to raise $250 for Airmen in need during the holiday season.

Anyone interested in giving donations or "adopting" a family for Christmas with the Diamond Heart program can contact any 419th first sergeant.