Airmen translate Core Values into action Published Jan. 15, 2014 By Lt. Col. Sharon Presley 345th Recruiting Squadron commander TUPELO, Miss. -- The Delayed Entry Program development guide informs recruits that "Airmanship is a mindset and an attitude. It is embracing the Air Force Core Values of Integrity First, Service Before Self, and Excellence in All We Do." Staff Sgt. Charles Hefner, an enlisted accessions recruiter with the 345th Recruiting Squadron's C-Flight in Tupelo, Miss., translated these words into action for 12 members of the DEP at their Dec. 20 Airmen's Call. Hefner discussed "Service Before Self" as one of his topics and then led the team helping the Salvation Army with their Angel Tree program. "I personally became involved in the Angel Tree program because I have a passion for those kids whose only chance for Christmas is for someone to help their families," Hefner said. "My passion for these kids stems from being one of those kids myself due to my family situation when I was growing up. I chose to have my DEP get involved to show them that community service is an important part of the Air Force's Core Values and to be the all-around Airman the Air Force is looking for," he said. Over the course of four hours, Hefner and his DEP members distributed toys and gifts to parents facing financial difficulties. Their actions ensured a joyous holiday season for more than 990 families and children from the greater Tupelo area.