Did You Know... Published Jan. 21, 2014 By 1st Lt. Andre Bowser 439th Airlift Wing Public Affairs WESTOVER AIR RESERVE BASE, Mass. -- A continuing series about Westover, it's people and mission.... Patriot Wing members provide many services, functions and roles that go beyond the duty hour, such as morale and welfare activities, fund-raisers for the benefit of the base populace, charitable engagements with the surrounding communities, and many, many more. That's where base clubs, councils and organizations come in; they're an assortment of ancillary groups made up of volunteers who spread goodwill on and off base. Presiding over all base organizations is the Council of Councils. It governs the joint efforts and common goals shared among these assorted groups. "Volunteers represent an important part of the base's mission -- they keep members happy and engaged. That enables us to train to do our jobs," said Col. Steven Vautrain, 439th Airlift Wing commander. "The councils, clubs and organizations on base make things happen behind the scenes that benefit and touch every member of the Patriot Wing," said CMSgt. Michael Thorpe, wing command chief master sergeant. Here are highlights of what some of these organizations do: The Chiefs Council annually awards a $500 college scholarship to Patriot Wing reservists and family members, and plays a major role in popular base events like Family Day. The Top Three often teams up with other clubs to visit veterans at the Soldiers Home in Holyoke. First Sergeants: When Hurricane Sandy hit close to home for many reservists, the group collected $2,500 in a day to go toward assisting in the recovery efforts. Human Resource Development Council: More than 150 area teenagers visited the base to learn about the military, called the Youth Outreach. HRDC organizers were central to making that happen. They also worked with 25 local students to learn about aeronautics. Rising Six: When they're not awarding superior Airmen (airman basic through technical sergeant) for community involvement, mentorship, motivation and leadership, they raise money for the command in such ways as selling a lip balm, among their other activities. The group also plans outings and activities that emphasize physical fitness. Company Grade Officer Council: The council 's many activities includes teaming with other base organizations to visit the Soldiers Home in Holyoke, and raising funds for base activities. The CGOC also hosts the annual Veterans Day Memorial Service. Interested Airmen can contact their first sergeants for more information about getting involved in these organizations.