#3 My Contribution(s) to the Air Force
Ranita Mealer
I am extremely proud of the countless contributions that I have made to the Air Force.
The most memorable ones are when I was given the opportunity to volunteer with wounded
warriors from Iraq, and mentoring the youth service athletes in several sports.
Last year, I worked as a volunteer for the summer at Walter Reed Army Medical Facility
in their Physical Therapy Outpatient Clinic. The clinic treated wounded warriors from all
branches of the service. When Airman and family members were present I felt a much stronger
bond. Being an AF dependent I could converse with them about bases, ranks, and acronyms that
are used by Airman. This provided a good ice breaker and allowed me to hold conversations
with patients and other family members. I found these conversations very rewarding to me as it
always brought a smile to their faces. During the course of a day, I assisted the service members
by preparing training tables, wiping down equipment, and demonstrating activities that were
recommended as part of the treatment by the physical therapist. I also played an active role in
their rehab by assisting them with the very physical and challenging exercises and routines.
Working with the wounded warriors had a profound impact on me and has led me to pursue a
degree in chemistry with the intent on becoming a doctor. This will give me the chance to give
back to Airman and other service members alike.
I have also contributed my time to the Air Force community by assisting with coaching
and mentoring athletes in various sports such as Swimming, Track & Field, and Soccer. This
experience comes from my athletic participation in youth sports. Here, I learned the competitive
skills that allowed me to become an intercollegiate Track & Field athlete and I have been able to
pass on my knowledge to those junior to me. Working with these athletes will help improve their
athletic potential and can take them a long way in life; possibly college or professional. Some of
them may also become Airmen and represent the Air Force at Inter-service or collegiate
competitions. It is very rewarding knowing that I am helping to shape tomorrows Airman.
Being a part of a contributing Air Force family has given me great opportunities to strive
and succeed in life. It has given me a chance to be an outstanding athlete, family member and a
great opportunity to excel at almost anything. I am proud to be a contributing factor to the great
service that is provided by the Air force. I will continue to Aim High and give back to the
community that has helped me become the person that I am today.