Peterson dorm residents treated to holiday feast

Published Nov. 30, 2009
By Airman 1st Class Jessica Hines
21st Space Wing Public Affairs

PETERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Colo. -- Airmen living in the dorms here were treated to an annual Thanksgiving meal Nov. 20, sponsored by the Combined First Sergeants Council and the Colorado Springs Chief's Group.

The Thanksgiving feast began at 2:30 p.m. in Building 1270 and was for all Airmen living in the dorms who wanted to enjoy a holiday meal with fellow Airmen and get the chance to interact with wing leadership.

Airman 1st Class Chris Czubinski, knowledge operations management with Space Innovation and Development Center at Schriever AFB and dorm resident, was pleased to see all that was offered as a first term Airman in the dorms.

"I just got off work and came over," he said. "I'm very impressed."

Chief Master Sgt. Treassia Hall, Air Force Space Command first sergeant, has attended the feast for the past three years and said last year's event hosted more than 300 dorm residents.

This year's Thanksgiving meal hoped to reach even more Airmen by starting earlier in the day to accommodate shift workers.

In addition to the feast, pool and board games were available for those who choose to stay after the meal, said Chief Hall.

Dorm managers such as Master Sgt. Mark Murphy, unaccompanied housing manger with the 21st Civil Engineer Squadron, was in attendance to help set up and break down the event as well as talk with the Airmen.

"When I was in the dorms, every dorm pretty much stuck to themselves," said Sergeant Murphy. "What we're trying to do is get more of the dorm residents together."

As the Year of the Air Force Family continues, community events such as the annual Thanksgiving meal build morale and the wingman concept among single Airmen who find themselves in a growing Air Force community.

As the holiday season kicks off, dorm residents looking for local activities and events can visit www.21fss.com to stay connected.

"The website not only has YoAFF events, but all activities provided on base to include outdoor recreation ski trips, Football Frenzy dates at The Club, SnoFest, New Year's Eve party, base movie schedule and more," said to Beverly Price, community readiness consultant for the Airmen and Family Readiness Center.

Even more, Airmen with a creative side can visit www.myairforcelife.com to compete in a YoAFF T-shirt design contest for a chance to win a lap top with design software valued at $2,000. Entries will be accepted now through Dec. 20.

With winter in full swing, Peterson Airmen can expect to find ways to socialize and contribute to their local community, both on and off base, while developing their own Air Force family.