You Made My Day

  • Published
  • By Courtesy Writer: Rod Wilson, Northern Sentry
  • Minot Air Force Base Public Affairs
MINOT AIR FORCE BASE, ND --  

I have the trip to Minot Air Force Base memorized pretty well. Once off the bypass and headed north on Highway 83, I begin to scan the horizon for B52’s or Huey helicopters above the base.

Eventually the trees on the skyline give way to the MAFB water towers, air traffic control tower and various other communication towers.

Once the highway separates, we move over to the left turn lane, and eventually enter the front gate of the base with the signs that remind us that Minot AFB is the home of the Global Striker.

As I weave through the traffic barriers, I find myself in line to show my ID for entrance to the base.

Rolling down the window I am greeted today by a young Airman who promptly says, “Welcome to Minot Air Force Base, hope you are having a great day today, sir.” I answer back, “Yes, it is a great day.” 

He takes my ID and continues the conversation “Looks like you have been here before, but is there anything I can help you with today?” To which I answer, “Nope, pretty much got that part under control.” 

To which he answers “Great, and can I please ask you to buckle your seat belt for your safety? You know we want to keep you safe so you can come visit us again.” At this point I am so darned impressed that I happily buckle my belt and respond “Thank you, I normally do buckle my belt, but I unbuckled it to get out my wallet to access my military ID.” 

This young man had a contagious attitude, one that would certainly improve your day, no matter what kind of mood you were in, and so I said “Hey thanks for making my day young man. I certainly appreciate you welcoming us visitors to the base.” He said, “Thank you- and hope the rest of your day goes well.” 

In my day I have worked with several companies to improve their “inside the 4-walls” customer service. This young man certainly needed no coaching- he probably should be teaching the course!

And as I drove away with my window open, I heard him greet the next vehicle with the same enthusiasm.  

Thinking about the experience for the rest of the day, I took every opportunity I had to inform folks on base how great it was to be greeted by this young man. It just confirmed what I already knew, “Only the Best Come North”. So, thank you sir, I want you to know…You Made My Day!