All American Base picnic helps boost morale

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Denise Nevins
  • 28th Bomb Wing Public Affairs
ELLSWORTH AIR FORCE BASE, S.D. --  Airmen and their families spent time together during Ellsworth's annual base picnic, July 10, enjoying activities and a free meal at the Bellamy Fitness Center.

Each year, the 28th Force Support Squadron hosts the picnic to boost morale, while also ending the work week in a fun and relaxing way.

In addition to a paintball tournament, bubble soccer and party inflatables, guests also experienced a surprise visit from Buzz Aldrin, a former astronaut and the second man to walk on the moon. Aldrin is also a former U.S. Air Force officer and command pilot.

He greeted and participated in events with Airmen and enjoyed lunch with Col. Gentry Boswell, 28th Bomb Wing commander, as part of a tour of the base with U.S. Senator for South Dakota, John Thune. Aldrin also held a book-signing at the Rushmore Mall in Rapid City and addressed the South Dakota School of Mines and Technology student body.

"The base picnic was a good way to interact with people and have a good time," said Senior Airman Travis Bellefeuille, 28th Operations Support Squadron target analyst. "We got to meet Buzz Aldrin, and the paintball tournament was a great addition to the picnic."

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