Base picnic kicks off weekend

  • Published
  • By Airman Ashley J. Woolridge
  • 28th Bomb Wing Public Affairs
ELLSWORTH AIR FORCE BASE, S.D. --  Airmen and their families enjoyed a day of fun and fellowship at the base picnic hosted by the 28th Force Support Squadron, Aug. 17.

The event featured a variety of sports tournaments outside the Bellamy Fitness Center, a multicultural awareness association diversity celebration, activities for all ages and a lunch of hamburgers and hot dogs - all of which provided a relaxing end to the work week.

Staff Sgt. Andre Penn, 28th FSS fitness center specialist, said the event planners worked hard to provide a variety of engaging activities.

"I saw lots of smiles and kids having fun," Penn said. "There was dancing and food, and something for everyone."

One of the most visible events was the diversity celebration held outside the Bellamy Fitness Center.

"The tennis courts were decorated with flags from many countries, enticing the eye and sparking curiosity among the spectators," said Nelda Barrientes, secretary for the 28th Medical Group commander.

Barrientes helped coordinate the diversity celebration - which included performances and demonstrations of tae kwon do, various cultural dances, as well as a Native American children's song sung by two Lakota children from the local area.

"Many spectators and children participated in the Native American friendship dance," Barrientes said. "It was amazing to watch the little ones demonstrate tae kwon do with such discipline, and the hula dancing had beautiful and graceful moves."

Another big draw was the three-on-three basketball tournament.

"The basketball tournament was my favorite part," Penn said. "I enjoy playing, and I like to be competitive. It's also nice to see people outside of work, loosened up and enjoying themselves."

Barrientes said there is a reward for working hard to plan days like the base picnic.

"Preparing for these events takes a lot of work, but it's well worth it to see the smiles on people's faces," she said.

Penn added that family days are important to remind every Airman that they plan an important role in accomplishing the base mission.

"It's a good team-building event - it helps us become more of a family," Penn said. "In the end, we're all a team and we all help put bombs on target."

For information on upcoming events, visit www.ellsworthfss.com.