Spouse takes part in ‘Service Before Self’ concept

  • Published
  • By Capt. Robert Sperling
  • 459th Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs Office
Spouses routinely embody the Air Force core values and play an integral role in the success of those who serve in uniform.

For the 69th Aerial Port Squadron's Senior Airman Cassandra Brandon, her spouse, Brian Brandon, went above and beyond to support deployed Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Marines who are currently serving around the world.

When he learned of his wife's deployment orders, he took it upon himself to make a difference by way of a 30-day campaign, launched from a national pharmacy chain location he manages, to collect toothpaste, mouthwash, sunscreen, and hand sanitizer for deployed military members. The pharmacy offered 50-percent discounted items for the campaign, and donors could sign a series of posters highlighting their participation. Soon, the pharmacy collected more than 10,000 signatures.

"You hear so much negative news about what is going on in the world through the media, but everyday people really appreciate what we do in the military," Airman Brandon said. "My husband and his boss really felt good that they were able to contribute, and through the experience they were able to be a part of and learn about the military."

As a result of the campaign, Brandon's store was ranked number one in the district and region and number two overall in sales for the chain of stores around the country.