Airmen 'reel' in spiritual resilience

  • Published
  • By Sara Vidoni
  • Team Eglin Public Affairs
EGLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. --  More than 35 Eglin Airmen took to the high seas May 31 in hopes of reeling in a prize catch while also boosting their spiritual resilience.

The fishing excursion was one of several Ultimate Spiritual Resilience events planned for this summer by the 96th Test Wing Chaplain's office. The Ultimate Spiritual Resilience is a curriculum established by Dr. John Van Epp and is being taught at military bases across the country.

"The goal of this trip was to provide a relaxing day of fishing with an accompanied teaching to enhance the resilience of our personnel," said Chaplain (Capt.) John Richardson, of the 96th Test Wing. "Multiple deployments and time away from family are major stressors for Airmen and by providing these opportunities; we hope to strengthen their whole person."

Airmen from across Eglin were encouraged to attend the trip, especially those in need of relaxation and sunshine.

"My flight commander highly recommended I attend the fishing trip, because I had been working so hard and had been going through a lot," said Staff Sgt. Nisha Morris of the 96th Civil Engineer Squadron. "It was a way for me to relax and focus on having a much-needed, stress-free day."

Morris, who had never fished before, caught a king mackerel and two red snapper.

"I believe trips like these do people a world of good," said Morris. "I know for me, it was simply getting away and leaving it all behind on shore. The trip was amazing!"

Morris was not the only Airman who benefitted so positively from the trip. Tech. Sgt. Heath Ilderton, of the 96th Inpatient Operations Squadron, felt the trip provided a great opportunity to network with other Airmen and share stories about life experiences.

"Trips like this are important since there is always a need to show Airmen from the top down that they do care about them more than just a worker at the work-center," said Ilderton, who caught five fish throughout the day. "Showing this sense of care really does have a positive impact on the spirit and mental status."

The chaplain office hopes these spiritual resilience trips aid Airmen to return a focus to the spiritual side of their lives.

"The four pillars of a healthy life, as outlined by the Comprehensive Airmen Fitness program are, the physical, mental, social and spiritual pillars," explained Richardson. "When Airmen utilize their spiritual life, it will not only help them to be more resilient, but it will strengthen the other three pillars of life too. That is why these trips are important; it engages Airmen in a social environment that is healthy, while calling on them to focus on the important aspects of life."

More events are planned throughout the summer and all Eglin Airmen are invited to sign up. The next planned event will be a zipline and kayak resilience trip scheduled for June 21. Contact the Chaplain office at 882-2111 to reserve a spot.