BARKSDALE AIR FORCE BASE, La. -- Tech. Sgt. Neosha Benson seems to be driven by one simple goal each and every day. From her job as the unit training manager for the 307th Force Support Squadron to her volunteer work in the community, this Reserve Citizen Airman’s focus is on helping others.
Benson’s work ethic and charitable contributions compelled the 307th FSS leadership to nominate her for this year’s Bossier Chamber of Commerce Patriot Award.
When asked about the nomination, Benson simply shrugs, breaks into a self-effacing smile and offers a simple reason for her efforts.
“I just like to help where I can,” she says.
That philosophy manifests itself in a complete devotion to duty, according to her peers.
“She is one of the hardest workers I know,” said Master Sgt. Alicia Williams, 307th FSS fitness manager. “When something needs to be done, she just does it without being asked and I never have to worry about it being done well.”
Benson views her unit training manager job as an important way to help others in her unit. By tracking training for her fellow Airman, she ensures they are ready for any contingency and they are also keeping their careers on the right track.
Dedication to excellence in the workplace is not Benson’s only hallmark, though. She has been instrumental in the success of no less than five charitable events in the past few months.
Williams said Benson approaches her volunteer work with the same gusto as she does her Air Force career.
“She is so giving,” said Williams. “Once, I just mentioned my brother was working to get bookbags to some school children in need and she insisted on helping out.”
Raised in a large, tight-knit family about an hour north of Barksdale, Benson credits her attitude towards her upbringing.
“Family and community were important growing up and I carry that with me in my every-day dealings,” she said.
The desire to give help where it is needed was what has motivated Benson to support so many charitable causes. Her past efforts include helping school age children have necessary supplies, working with the elderly in nursing home and volunteering time with a variety of charitable road races ranging from 5K’s to marathons.
Although Benson said she enjoys all her volunteer opportunities, donating time to fitness events is her favorite thing to do.
“I enjoy it because fitness does not come naturally to me and I know it can be a challenge for others as well,” she said.
Beyond the obvious benefits of her volunteerism, Benson also views her efforts as a type of recruiting tool for future generations. She said her presence at charitable events can clear up many misconceptions about military life.
“So many people think the Air Force is just about flying planes,” she said. “When I volunteer, I’m able to show them all the other opportunities available in the Air Force to those that want to better themselves.”
Although Benson spends the bulk of her time focusing on the needs of others, she does keep goals in mind for both her civilian and military careers. In her civilian life, she would like to continue her education and work toward a degree in business.
On the military side, Benson has progressed quickly, entering the service as an Airman 1st Class and making her current rank in only six years. However, she would like to achieve more, and not just for herself.
“I would not mind making Chief Master Sgt.,” she said. “It would be a great opportunity to help a lot of people.”