Thanking Our Heroes in the 22nd Air Task Force

There’s something magical about coming together with your sisters—not just in spirit, but in action. On a sunny autumn afternoon, Alpha Chi Omega Spokane alumnae sisters gathered around a warmly lit dining table, surrounded by pumpkins, ribbons, and stacks of blank cards. Our mission? To write heartfelt thank-you notes to the brave men and women of the 22nd Air Task Force at Fairchild Air Force Base. And we didn’t do it alone.

Leading the charge was our own sister, Honorary Commander, Susan Nielsen, a pillar of strength and dedication who has championed the connection between our sorority and the military community. Joining us was a very special guest: Leah, the wife of the 22nd Air Task Force Colonel and also an Air Force veteran. As we penned message after message of gratitude, Leah, shared powerful, personal stories—tales of resilience, sacrifice, and quiet heroism that brought a profound sense of purpose to the room.

Meri, Adrienne, Leah, Susan, Ashlee and Leslie enjoying the afternoon together!

One by one, we filled over 50 cards with messages of appreciation. The table was a beautiful chaos of creativity—fall-themed stickers, colorful pens, and envelopes sealed with “Happy Thanksgiving” seals. Every card carried the same truth: We see you. We thank you. We are grateful.

This wasn’t just a card-writing party. It was a reminder that gratitude is an action, and small gestures—like a handwritten note—can travel across miles and lift spirits in ways we may never fully know.

To the members of the 22nd Air Task Force:

Your service doesn’t go unnoticed. Your sacrifices don’t go unappreciated. From the Alpha Chi Omega Spokane alumnae—with love, real love—we say thank you.

Susan Nielsen with other Honorary Commanders at Fairchild Air Force base.

And to our sisters who wrote with heart, and shared this meaningful afternoon: Together Let Us Seek the Heights!