PLANO, Texas -- Reserve Citizen Airmen assigned to the 301st Fighter Wing, Naval Air Station Fort Worth Joint Reserve Base, Texas came together on November 5, 2019 for a charitable cause – giving back to veterans.
The National Basketball Association’s Dallas Mavericks hosted an annual charity-driven program coined “Hoops for Troops: Commitment to Service,” which strives to create partnership between local military forces, local sponsors and professional basketball teams. The program has been in existence for the past 5 years and has included events centered on giving back to the community with the assistance of every NBA team nation-wide.
For this year’s charitable event, the Dallas Mavericks partnered with Minnie’s Food Pantry in Plano, Texas for donations to create food packages that are slated to be delivered to local veterans in need this holiday season.
Team Fort Worth, along with Maverick’s players Courtney Lee and Delon Wright, assembled 500 food packages within an hour time-span. Contents of the packages ranged from non-perishable food items to treats for recipients to enjoy.
Technical Sergeant Erin Bernik, assigned to the 301st Fighter Wing Safety Office, reflected fondly on the event. “The atmosphere was great here,” said Bernik. “The Mavericks treated us like we were the stars of the show. It felt very rewarding to be a part of something where we can give back to those generations before us who have served.”
Community service holds a special meaning for Bernik. “In Texas, I find myself being thanked for my service constantly,” said Bernik. “It feels good to invest in the community that believes in me and supports my service to this great nation.”