First Four: creating power with numbers Published March 17, 2008 By Staff Sgt. Tammie Moore 52nd Fighter Wing Public Affairs SPANGDAHLEM AIR BASE, Germany -- It is not uncommon to feel unsure how to voice an idea or concern, especially for a young Airman. The First Four is here to help Airmen shake the feeling of being just one fish in a vast sea, as well as provide them the chance to meet with others who want to leave the base a better place than when they arrived. "We provide a voice for Airmen," said Airman 1st Class Krystal Kidnocker, First Four president. "We offer Airmen an avenue to recommend improvements or to learn about the things happening on and off base." Senior airmen and below gather together to talk about issues affecting them, volunteer opportunities and even upcoming social events. "The First Four is looking for people to make a difference," said Master Sgt. Patrick McFarlin, 22nd Fighter Squadron superintendent of squadron operations. "Airmen makes up the largest force on base, and numbers are power. When the First Four has an issue they want to address they can speak for the base's entire Airmen population." To help provide these Airmen leaders direction, mentors like Sergeant McFarlin and Master Sgt. Jody Wray, 52nd Mission Support Squadron first sergeant, attend First Four meetings. "Airmen need to understand that membership in the First Four is the first step in their career development to become tomorrows leaders," Sergeant Wray said. In addition to helping the Airmen through processes they may not be familiar with, mentors are able to use the networks they have already built to assist members of the First Four. "As I mentor I provide advice on fundraising," Sergeant Wray said. "Currently the First Four is working to raise $1,000 to donate to the Enlisted Heritage Hall." Upcoming events that members of the First Four are conducting include a WAPS testing seminar presented by Chief Master Sgt. Michael Skidmore, 52nd Medical Group, for senior airmen and below March 20 and a bake sale outside of the Spangdahlem commissary March 29. Airman Kidnocker said she felt she has taken a great deal away from her involvement in the First Four. "It is fun and I meet new people at every meeting," she said. "I get to learn what other people on base do. I also get to learn their opinions. Best of all, through First Four, our word means something." First Four meetings take place the second Tuesday of each month at 11:30 a.m. in the Brick House. For more information, about the First Four, e-mail krystal.kidnocker@spangdahlem.af.mil or jenifer.calhoun@spangdahlem.af.mil.