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SERE specialists clean up community

Published Nov. 20, 2015
By Staff Sgt. Samantha Krolikowski
92nd Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs

FAIRCHILD AIR FORCE BASE, Wash. -- Airmen assigned to the 336th Training Group combed through the local Spokane area Nov. 20 to help clean up and remove debris from a severe windstorm that occurred on Nov. 17.

"It's a chance to give back to the community," said Senior Airman Micah Gillette, 66th Training Squadron Survival Evasion Resistance and Escape specialist. "There are a lot of people who have more damage than I do and don't have the means or ability to cleanup."

More than 100,000 residents of Spokane suffered power outages, several of which remain unresolved. The wind broke records and was the worst storm since an ice storm in November 1996. The Airmen were able to help tidy up yards for seven homes on the South Hill in Spokane.

"It's awesome to get out and do this, we have the manpower, capability and tools," said Gillette."People might not have power for a week or more and it's already getting cold outside."

After living here for almost five years, he has had nothing but good experiences with the local community and wanted to help those who were less fortunate, Gillette added.

"We're just trying to help them out," said Gillette. "If you have the time, even if it's half a day, get out and help."