Team Tinker gives back in Habitat for Humanity build Published July 23, 2008 By Danielle Gregory Tinker Public Affairs TINKER AIR FORCE BASE, Okla., -- Tinker Air Force Base members have come together once again with Habitat For Humanity to provide shelter for someone in need and less fortunate than them. Recently several Tinker employees volunteered their free time to start a Habitat project that will benefit a Vietnam Veteran and former Prisoner of War. John Smith served as a Navy SEAL from Feb. 1966 through Aug. 1969. Upon leaving the military service he was an E-5. Mr. Smith said that he feels great about receiving the new home and that he is honored. "This program helps people and shows families there are people who care and are willing to give up their time to ensure their safety. By helping people in need we show others we care and hopefully that will be contagious. When these families get reestablished in their life they will return the favor and help someone else in need. Knowing in the end that someone benefitted from my help is all the thanks I need," said Master Sgt. Lisa Sears, who is volunteering her time for this project. Habitat is a non-profit organization that helps provide homes for people in need. Habitat rewards people with these homes based on sweat equity, which means that they are helping the community by helping build other homes. This build is what Habitat calls a "Blitz Build". Air Force members, enlisted and officers, Navy personnel, and civilians stationed at Tinker along with the Habitat contractors began the house project on July 15th. The house will be presented to its new owner on August 1. "I believe this is a great opportunity to give back to the community, plus I enjoy using my hands and building. This time is especially important to me, because we are giving back to a fellow military member," said project coordinator Master Sgt. Derek Barnard, 552nd Air Control Networks Squadron. This will be the 3rd event that Sergeant Barnard has organized, and the 2nd that he has participated in the past year. Volunteer coordinator Steven Musch said that Habitat gives people a chance to own safe and decent housing. He also mentioned that the program builds approximately 40 houses a year. "I am lucky because I have the basic necessities and then some. I have four children who have everything they need to be successful. If we don't help people who are less fortunate than us, we can't complain about the system and how it doesn't work," said Sergeant Sears. "Instead of complaining about problems, I like to help find solutions. This is one solution that I can help with and it doesn't cost me money just a little of my time and maybe a couple of smashed fingers and paint everywhere." To find out how to volunteer for Habitat visit their website at centraloklahomahabitat.org or call 405-232-4828. .