Operation Warm Heart alive at Wright-Patt

The first sergeants at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base take meeting the needs of the Airmen on base very seriously, and one way they reach out to Airmen is through Operation Warm Heart, a national organization.

“I am a first sergeant, and my job is people; people are my business,” said Senior Master Sgt. Timothy Ogan, first sergeant, Air Force Life Cycle Management Center. “As stated in the Air Force First Sergeant’s Creed, I dedicate my time and energy to their needs: their health, morale, discipline and welfare.”

Ogan explained that those words in their creed exemplify the mission of OWH. This organization is a 501(c)(3), non-profit fundraising and relief organization, supported by donations from the community. Its purpose is to help offset the costs for Airmen over the holidays, providing financial support when money might be tight.

“This money is not a loan, so Airmen never have to worry about paying it back,” said Ogan. “Airmen who live on or off base can receive financial help when needed, including active-duty, Guard, reserve and Department of Defense civilians.

“This program falls right into the wheel house of every first sergeant that has ever sewn on the diamond,” Ogan said. “Money goes directly back to the welfare of our Airmen and their families. The more people we can touch with Operation Warm Heart, the better off the Air Force will be as an institution.”

Master Sgt. Kerry McDonough, first sergeant for the 88th Civil Engineering Group, Operations Support Squadron, wing staff agencies and the 88th Comptroller Squadron, co-chairs OWH and explains that even though the majority of OWH distributions are made during the holidays, special grants and random acts of kindness are disbursed throughout the year.

“Funds are distributed on a case-by-case basis [when] the individual has exhausted all other means,” said McDonough. “OWH will step in to provide the money, expecting nothing in return.

“During the past two years, first sergeants have distributed a little more than $10,000,” he said. “However, the potential for giving depends on the contributions received.”

Both Kerry and McDonough agree that their main goal is to ensure Airmen are taken care of throughout the year not just over the holidays.

Distribution of funds is controlled by the First Sergeants Executive Council, and requests for more than $250 are voted on by the entire council. After the recipient receives help from the OWH, their first sergeant will work with the individual to devise a plan to help that person get back on his or her feet.

If you are interested in becoming a benefactor, making a pledge or donation toward Operation Warm Heart, contact Ogan at timothy.ogan@us.af.mil, 937-255-8525 or McDonough kerry.mcdonough@us.af.mil, 937-522-3759 or your unit’s first sergeant.

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