Focusing on tomorrow today

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Ali Flisek
  • 1st SOW Public Affairs
HURLBURT FIELD, Fla. --  The day an Airman becomes a Non-Commissioned Officer is a significant milestone in one's enlisted career. Along with young troops to supervise and lead come many other responsibilities. But there is a support group out there to help. 

Focus 56 is named for the E-5 and E-6, staff and technical sergeant, ranks. Focus 56 is a motivated and innovated organization of staff sergeants, (including selects), through technical sergeants dedicated to sharing information, fostering morale, and voicing concerns pertinent to the enlisted force through an active partnership with senior leaders, peers, future NCOs and the local community. 

"In a time when each person is over tasked, these outstanding NCOs find it in their heart to help their fellow peers and those in need," said Focus 56 acting president, Tech. Sgt. Michael LaVanway. 

They are also involved with many volunteering programs and numerous events throughout Hurlburt Field and the community. They have participated in Habitat for Humanity, Adopt-A-Highway, and soon Big Brother/Big Sister. They also organize events such as the monthly NCO Induction ceremonies and the POW/MIA ceremony. 

There are many volunteering organizations out there, but this one is a little different. It doubles as a support group in leadership, mentoring, supervisory skills, and professional development. Many find it a great networking tool as well. 

"With such a diverse group, you build relationships with other NCOs in almost every career field," said one Focus 56 member. 

With such a small group of only 160 members out of the 5,000 staff and techs on Hurlburt Field, information and tips, such as helpful enlisted performance review writing documents are often shared among members. As a member, you have the privilege to vote on important topics and ideas that will mold the future of Focus 56. 

"We are a democratic organization, all issues are voted on and majority rules," Sergeant LaVanway said. 

Focus 56 meets at 3:30 p.m. every third Tuesday of the month in JR Rockers. The next meeting is May 22. If you are interested or have any questions please contact Sergeant LaVanway at 884-3639 or Staff Sgt. Laura Bell at 884-7393.