Bruckbauer encourages rest, relaxation, gratitude this holiday season

Commentary by Air Force Col. Brian Bruckbauer
JBER and 673d ABW commander

12/19/2014 - JOINT BASE ELMENDORF-RICHARDSON, Alaska -- As we reflect on the past year and gear up for the next, Stacye and I want to take the time to once again thank the entire JBER family for everything you do. This is a season to celebrate, to find opportunities to rest and reset, and it's well-deserved.

In some cases, finding time to relax is easier said than done. There are more than a thousand JBER Airman and Soldiers who are deployed to locations around the world this season. Also, many here at home will be working during the holidays to keep us safe and healthy. Please keep them and their families in your thoughts, and if you can, reach out to them and wish them happy holidays. Sometimes even a small gesture goes a long way. 

We also recognize there are many stressors and challenges this time of year. Thankfully, there are many resources and programs available to help. The Health and Wellness Center, chaplain community, and key spouse programs are just a few resources that can provide assistance not only during the holidays, but throughout the year. A good source of information is the JBER Resiliency Resources page at www.jber.af.mil/resiliency.

This is a time for us all to appreciate what we have and perhaps provide for those less fortunate. Volunteering or donating can be a very rewarding experience for all JBER personnel, community members and their families.

Charitable campaigns, to include the Combined Federal Campaign, Air Force Assistance Fund and Army Emergency Relief run throughout the year and are always appreciated, but there a variety of other volunteer opportunities throughout JBER and the community as well. Serving food at a local soup kitchen, providing toys for various organizations or being a designated driver for Joint Base Against Drunk Driving are just a few ways to give back.

Finally, have fun. Even without the amount of snow Alaska is used to this time of year, there are so many winter activities and so much beauty to enjoy here.

However you decide to spend the season, whether traveling or here, we extend our sincerest wishes to you and yours for a safe and enjoyable holiday season.