Plasma pistols cool down after tournament

  • Published
  • By Airman Nathan Riley
  • 28th Bomb Wing Public Affairs
The warmth of the freshly fired plasma weapon radiates through the hand. The body of a small alien lies below. It is almost completely quiet when the heavy breathing of something can be heard. It isn't long before a bigger alien takes a few steps from the shadows beside its fallen comrade-in-arms. It grunts something as it lifts its weapon, aiming at the man with the plasma weapon. There are only mere moments to react.
 
This was the feeling the 16 players who participated in the Halo 2 team tournament at the Black Hills Community Center experienced April 13. 

The tournament wasn't just a one-on-one fight; though, it was two teammates against seven other teams in an all out brawl. 

"I hope more people show up," said Senior Airman Bond Aulik, 28th Civil Engineer Squadron readiness journeyman and quick to start the trash-talk. "I've won every one of these." 

As quickly as the game started, rockets started flying, swords were swung, and shots were fired from the in-game guns. During the games, friendly jokes were shouted back and forth as the mood was light. 

After the rubble cleared, the winners were quickly recognized. 

First place and winners of one $50 gift card were Airman Aulik and Senior Airman Hooker, 28th CES heating-ventilation journeyman. 

Second place and winner of one $20 gift card were Airman 1st Class Francis Simon, 28th Logistics Readiness Squadron supply management apprentice and Airman 1st Class Michael Stinger, 28th Maintenance Squadron fuel specialist. 

More than just a battle of video game skills, the tournament was recognized as a way to spread awareness of the community center. 

"They see what the community center has here, so the Airmen come back," said Erika Coon, 28th Services Squadron recreation assistant. "We offer a lot, and if we get [word of us] out there, more people would show up." 

Even the Airmen realize the community center is a good place for people to go. 

"I think it's great," said Airman Julio Perez, 28th Security Forces Squadron commander's support staff. "It lets the Airmen get together and stay out of trouble." 

The community center holds various events every week for Airmen to participate in like the Halo 2 tournament, chess tournament, and pool tournament. 

A ping pong tournament is scheduled for 7 p.m., April 20 at the Black Hills Community Center. 

For more information on upcoming events, contact the community center at 385-1609.