Executive Director of Pi Lambda Phi, Ian Lowe (Baldwin Wallace) proudly serves in the Air Force Reserve, and at times his unit is called upon to provide humanitarian support for citizens in need. In August, Lowe’s unit participated in a joint mission with the Air National Guard and US Army to build homes for the homeless in a rural part of Western Hawaii.
An Air Force of Service
It’s not widely known that providing humanitarian relief in the United States and around the world is an essential part of the mission of the Air Force.
Ian said, “It’s good practice for us to prepare, but it’s really fulfilling to help those in need.”
Ian was the officer in charge of supporting logistical needs, like coordinating travel, processing, food operations, lodging, and daily travel to work sites for all those who came in from Civil Engineering.
The spirit of charity and giving back
Lowe has been in the Air Force Reserve for over 20 years dating back to his early college days. He chose the Reserve instead of Active Duty service because he wanted to serve the country while continuing his education and then while also serving our Fraternity on the IHQ staff. He said:
“One of the key lessons I learned early into my time in the service was having a greater appreciation for this country and for all the sacrifices made by those who came before me so that you and I can reap the benefits of today.”
I’m fortunate for the life I have had, so I feel compelled to give back. I’ve learned and taken so much away from my time in the Air Force that continuing to raise my hand to serve all these years seems like the right thing to do. Opportunities to help those in need — like the homeless population we built homes for — not only seemed right, but also fulfilled me.
I encourage all our alumni members to think about what really has made a difference in their life and then find a way to volunteer or to give back so that others can benefit the way that you did!”
