Airmen encouraged to ‘discover the hills’

  • Published
  • By Capt. Martha Petersante-Gioia
  • 28th Bomb Wing Public Affairs
ELLSWORTH AFB --  Imagine this scenario: you are new to South Dakota (and maybe even new to the Air Force), have never been to the state before, the moving company has delivered your household goods, and you've started your new job. Slowly, you are adjusting to the new location but wonder, what is there to do here on my free time? 

Ellsworth's newly arrived Airmen have the opportunity to answer that question on Sept. 28 as local vendors, area attractions and various volunteer organizations show how to 'discover the hills,' through informational booths and representatives. The event, which is hosted by the 28th Services Squadron, will be held in Building 410's North Bay from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. 

For personnel with families, especially younger children, there will be information on local parks and area attractions, such as indoor water parks and campgrounds, geared directly for them, said Destiny McNair, 28 SVS marketing director. 

For those wishing to give back to the local community, representatives from volunteer organizations, such as Big Brothers, Big Sisters, the Cornerstone Mission and others, will be on hand to answer questions, she said. 

Local chambers of commerce and visitors' bureaus will also have information available. National monuments and parks, such as Custer State Park, Mt. Rushmore and Crazy Horse, will have information available to newly arrived folks. 

The Black Hills are famous for outdoor activities, Mrs. McNair said, there will be people from the forestry service and the South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks Department lined up to talk about off-road trails for All Terrain Vehicles, hiking, or cross-country skiing. Trail maps will also be on hand. 

The base's Outdoor Recreation and other facilities will also have informational booths and representatives available to talk about upcoming base-sponsored trips and activities with new Airmen. 

This isn't just for the newly arrived folks, said Jessica Elsass, 28th SVS. 'Discover the Hills' is an opportunity for everyone stationed here to learn more about what our surrounding community offers, plan a trip and go enjoy the area. 

For more information on Discover the Hills, contact the 28th SVS marketing department at (605) 385-1589. (Vendors and agencies are subject to change)