Holloman celebrates Air Force’s birthday

  • Published
  • By Melissa Hancock
  • Soaring Heights
HOLLOMAN AIR FORCE BASE, N.M. --  More than 350 people celebrated the Air Force's 62nd birthday with a bash at the Domenici Fitness and Sports Center here Sept. 18.

The event was organized and hosted by the Company Grade Officers' Council and was different than previous years at Holloman, when the Air Force's birthday was celebrated with a military ball.

"We wanted to host an event that the Airmen would be excited about," said 1st Lt. Nathan Gano, one of the event's coordinators. "We decided to have a birthday bash where Airmen didn't have to wear their uniforms, and they could come to relax, eat, drink and have a good time."

The guests were treated to a buffet which consisted of items such as teriyaki chicken kabobs, stuffed mushrooms, fruit and vegetable trays and drinks.

The night's entertainment was kicked off when the HO Band played live music for the crowd.

"Many people who attended the event told me that it was the best Air Force birthday celebration they had ever attended," said Lieutenant Gano. "It was great to watch the base come together as a team to celebrate this important day."

The people who attended the event echoed his thoughts.

"I really enjoyed the birthday bash," said Staff Sgt. Michael Blackwelder, 49th Maintenance Operations Squadron. "The decorations were good -- it didn't even look like the fitness center. The food selection was great and the ticket price was a great value. The Air Force's birthday is important for Airmen to celebrate because it is our heritage. It reminds us to think of those who served before us and what they did for our Air Force."