AFSA Chapter 615 excels in service Published May 11, 2015 By Johnny Byrd, Chapter President AFSA Chapter 615 BARKSDALE AIR FORCE BASE, La. -- The Air Force Sergeants Association, "Chief Master Sgt. Leon Donnelly Chapter 615" and its 1,900-plus members recently received numerous awards for their many contributions to Barksdale, the Shreveport and Bossier City community and efforts around the globe. During this year's convention, the chapter was awarded the Community Service Award and the Website of the Year Award. Chapter accomplishments were bountiful and individual delegates were honored for their service - Mrs. Irene Heffern received the Division 4 Veterans Affairs Volunteer Service Award and Mrs. Lisa Byrd received the Division's highest honor that can be bestowed on a family member, the AFSA Family Member of the Year Award. Both the chapter and individuals will compete at this year's AFSA International Professional Airman's Conference in August 2015, in San Antonio. Awards were received during their attendance of the Division 4 Convention held in Abilene, Texas. The conference is hosted annually by one of 14 bases across Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi and Texas. The Air Force Sergeants Association was created in 1961 improve quality of life and economic fairness for all Air Force enlisted personnel: active duty, Air Force Reserve, Air National Guard, and veterans. AFSA's legislative team meets with Congressional and Senate members on Capitol Hill regularly to discuss AFSA's legislative platforms, ultimately garnering support for Air Force enlisted members' benefits and retention. There is an active AFSA chapter at almost every Air Force installation throughout the world and some in cities where bases were previously active. Chapter 615 members provided thousands of volunteer hours of support around the community. Donations by the chapter exceeded $50,000 to Barksdale programs events and activities, with over $30,000 provided to community activities and charities. For more information on AFSA Chapter 615, including membership opportunities, visit www.afsachapter615.org.