The Ministry of Picking up Trash

Anyone who was in Scouts may remember being taught to “police the area” after a camp out. We lined up and walked through the campsite picking up trash to make sure that we left no trace in the wilderness.

The Air Force does essentially the same thing. We regularly gather on the flight line and walk along picking up debris that might be sucked into an aircraft engine. These FOD walks prevent damage to aircraft and provide a great opportunity to engage with the members of the squadron.

Deployment leads to some interesting phenomenon. Where else would picking up trash become such an important highlight of one’s week in ministry?

OPSEC/Air Force disclaimers:

While sharing some particular moments from my government sponsored camping trip, I need to mention a concept that the Air Force refers to as OPSEC, or operational security. Essentially, it is a modern way of saying “loose lips sink ships.” Travel dates, my location, and the details of what I am doing are all going to remain unsaid in this forum and on social media. Instead, I am going to occasionally share generalized “day in the life of a chaplain” posts that are produced in conversation with our unit’s public affairs folks. Please understand if there are certain questions or topics that I refrain from discussing in this particular setting.

This blog is produced on my own time using personal equipment. No Air Force or DOD endorsement is implied.