May is Military Appreciation Month. Many in Minnesota show their gratitude by contributing time and money to the Armed Forces Service Center, at the Minneapolis/St. Paul Airport. AFSC serves active military (including National Guard and Army Reserve on active duty), and dependents. This “all-free” stop provides food, lounge, sleeping and other amenities for a safe and secure stopover in our airport.

The AFSC, staffed by nearly 200 volunteers, is open 24/7. Due to community support, the doors have not closed in its entire 40-plus years. Over 768,000 active-duty military personnel have utilized the AFSC.

In addition, AFSC volunteers have welcomed 215 charter flights carrying over 62,000 combat troops into MSP and over 450 buses transporting another 18,000 troops, from October 2006 to present. All are provided free food, candy/snacks, beverages and phones, plus “thank yous” in appreciation of their service.

The AFSC is a nonprofit, 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization. It relies on financial contributions, in-kind product donations and volunteers. It is not affiliated with USO and receives no government funds. Our guests are never solicited. Please help the AFSC to continue “Serving Those Who Serve.”

See the website at www.mnafsc.org or call 612-726-9156. The address is: Armed Forces Service Center, 4300 Glumack Dr. LT3693, MSP International Airport, St. Paul, MN 55111.

Mary Jean Jacobson

volunteer

Shakopee