"Twelve Days of Christmas" begin for 128th Community Council

  • Published
  • By Maj. Sherri A. Hrovatin
  • 128th Air Refueling Wing
Milwaukee --  U.S. Airmen with the 128th Air Refueling Wing and the 128th Community Council members gathered for lunch at the Wisconsin Club, Milwaukee, Dec. 12, 2014 before the quarterly 128th Community Council general membership meeting.

The mission of the 128th Community Council is to communicate the positive value of the wing to the community, state, and nation, by networking with business, government, and civic organizations.

The general membership meeting began with a welcome by Gary Glojek, chairman of the council, and introduction of the guests. Lt. Col. Matthew Friese, the wing chaplain, provided the invocation before the meal was served.

Col. Daniel S. Yenchesky, the wing commander of the 128 ARW delivered a presentation to attendees. Yenchesky's presentation focused on his recent deployment and the 128 ARW's missions and impact on the global scene. Yenchesky's speech reminded the community members in attendance that the 128 ARW is still a vital part of the local community and the missions overseas.

After the presentation by Yenchesky, the executive board presented Janine Sijan Rozina a certificate of appreciation for her dedication as a board member for the past two years.

As the meeting drew to a close, members of the council sang a well-known carol, the "Twelve Days of Christmas," which is a long standing tradition of the community council. This year, two distinguished guests, Col. Daniel S. Yenchesky, wing commander and Col. James V. Locke,  vice commander, sang their rendition of "Five Golden Rings."

The Community Council has been in existence for over 20 years, forming in the early 1980's. Its members are comprised of a diverse group of civilians that support the operations of the 128 ARW, using their individual and group talents. In simpler terms, the Community Council is much like a professional "booster club" for the wing and its members.

The Community Council has helped the wing by being proactive with issues like base closures, employer relations, Guard support, Guard family support and educating the community to recognize the important role of the 128 ARW plays in our nation's defense as well as positive economic impact to the Milwaukee metro area.

Membership for the 128th Community Council is open to business leaders, community leaders, and citizens interested in supporting the members of the 128 ARW. The distinguished council is limited to 120 members.

"The Community Council is a dynamic group of individuals who are committed to serving our wing. It is this kind of support that has enabled our guardsmen to serve our nation with confidence, knowing they have the support of their community. The 128th is honored to be a part of this established relationship and looks forward to their assistance in meeting whatever challenges the future may hold," said Yenchesky.

For additional information on 128th Community Council, or if you are interested in becoming a member, please call (414) 944-8539.