Keeping Moody clean one smile at a time

MOODY AIR FORCE BASE, Ga. -- Care taker, sanitary technician, cleaner or just plain "Fred."

Fredrick Gillard Jr., 23rd Force Support Squadron Freedom I Fitness Center janitor, does not care what you call him; as long as you have time for a smile and a few kind words.

Mr. Gillard, a Panama City, FL., native, has worked at the fitness center for more than a year. He previously worked at the bowling alley for more than 41/2 years.

Recently, he was recognized for his service and positive attitude by Col. Kenneth Todorov, 23rd Wing commander. The colonel presented Mr. Gillard with a well-earned commander's coin as a way of saying thank you from Team Moody.

"Fred is one of the hardest working men on Moody," said Colonel Todorov. "No matter what he is doing, he always is ready with a smile and a kind word for everyone he meets, every single day."

Mr. Gillard doesn't find it difficult to keep a smile on his face. For him, the joy comes from meeting new people and hearing their stories.

"I enjoy being able to get up every single day and come to work," he said. "I leave my problems at home so that I can come here and make someone else's day. I care for my customers and want to get to know them."

I enjoy talking to different people as well as making their day; a friendly smile with a 'How are you doing sir?' can change somebody's attitude for the rest of the morning," he added. "Sometimes people don't feel like working out when they are having a bad day."

Looking back, Mr. Gillard credits his positive attitude on his upbringing, his wife Cassandra, and his two children, 20-year-old Tiffany and 14 year-old Fredrick III.

He said his faith also plays a large role in his outlook on life.

"I would have to credit all of my accomplishments to the Lord, because he guides my life," he said.

Even if some of his tasks may seem unglamorous, Mr. Gillard takes pride in his job at the fitness center and doesn't plan on changing that any time soon.

"No matter what the job or the salary is, you should always do your best," he said