Summer Vacation - How Airmen take advantage of season

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Steven D. Wilson
  • 28th Bomb Wing Public Affairs
ELLSWORTH AIR FORCE BASE, S.D. --  Editor's Note: Airman 1st Class Abigail Klein, 28th Bomb Wing Public Affairs command information editor, contributed to this article.

Ellsworth's Airmen are taking advantage of the summer months here in the Black Hills by participating in a variety of off-duty activities away from the installation gates where many of them live and, of course, work.

An informal poll conducted by 28th Bomb Wing public affairs found servicemembers here enjoy a variety of pastimes ranging from rock climbing to exploring the Black Hills wilderness.

"We bar-b-que with family and friends, take the kids to the water parks and other Rapid City family (oriented) locations," said Tech. Sgt. Chris Malenius, 28th Security Forces squadron NCO-in-charge of mobility. "We'll also take the kids to summer camp for a week so mom and dad can have their own quality time and vacation from the kids."

Tech. Sgt. Justin Cookie, 28th Operations Group unit deployment manager, said his family enjoys the scenic outdoors the warmer months bring.

"We spend weeks, literally, at a time in the beautiful Black Hills of South Dakota or the majestic peaks of the Big Horn mountains of Wyoming," he said. "When we aren't camping (my wife) Stacy and I are out meandering the wonderful back roads of the Black Hills on my motorcycle."

Another Ellsworth member takes to the court for her recreational fix. Meet Airman Rachael Liberty, 28th Operational Support Squadron host aviation resource management specialist by day and avid volleyball player when away from the office.

Airman Liberty originally started playing volleyball at the age of ten with her dad as her coach. She usually practices and plays at multiple courts in the local area including the Spur Campground located near Sturgis, S.D. and Canyon Lake.

Airman Liberty also regularly participates in volleyball leagues throughout the year. Depending on the season, she plays indoor or in the sand.

The opportunity to challenge opponents continues to draw her to the sport.

"The competitiveness is awesome," she said. "It's also a great, easy way to stay in shape."

For beginners interested in taking-up the sport, Airman Liberty says knowledge of how the game is played competitively is important. She also recommends the use of good court shoes, net and plenty of space to move as necessary.

Tech. Sgt. Ann Mitchell, 28th Force Support Squadron NCO-in-charge of readiness said her summer relaxation comes in the form of hiking the local area.

"I love being in the woods," she said. "No noise, fresh air, birds, colors ... I like that you can get the heart pumping but still have fun and enjoy yourself (while) doing it.

The Black Hills offer many summer outdoor activities, from the slow-paced and relaxing to the adrenaline-pumping and thrilling. Outdoor activity ideas, maps, brochures and equipment rentals can all be found at Ellsworth's Outdoor Recreation center. Call (605) 385-2997 for further information.