ELLSWORTH AIR FORCE BASE, S.D. -- The 28th Force Support Squadron outdoor recreation on Ellsworth Air Force Base, S.D., offers at least one trip a month for the Airmen and family members of Ellsworth, providing transportation, lodging, and most importantly fun for an affordable price.

I was lucky enough to have been able to go on this last trip in November for the Air Force Falcons vs. Army Knights football game. The trip began on Nov. 4 when we met at the outdoor recreation at noon. Everyone packed up their bags and got on the bus as fast as possible to get the trip started. The bus was equipped with a DVD player that had multiple screens throughout the bus and complimentary blankets in case someone got cold. The trip was long but it didn't seem that way with all the fun we were having, we watched movies and talked amongst one another meeting new people and building new friendships.

We arrived at the hotel in Denver late Friday night, got handed our keys, and were let loose. The rooms were very nice and spacious, the hotel also had a pool and a few restaurants. They informed us of surrounding attractions and places to eat, and told us to meet back down in the lobby at 8 a.m. the next morning for the game. Everyone loaded up the bus at 8 a.m. and we began our one hour journey to Colorado Springs, Colo. We got there early to avoid traffic and spent some time in the Air Force Academy's gift shop and ate some lunch there before the game started. Once we arrived to the field they handed out our tickets and we went through the gates, I couldn't believe how easy it was to get in and find our seats. The group sat in the second section up which offered a close view but far enough away to view the entire field and see the action. Kickoff was at 1:30 and it lasted until around 5:30. The game was amazing and is a memory I will hold onto forever. The group returned to the bus and we started our journey back to Ellsworth, the bus was silent all the way back, everyone was exhausted from the long weekend and excitement. We returned late that night.

I think that everyone should take advantage of this great program that outdoor recreation offers to all members of Ellsworth, this trip was an experience that I won't forget. To get information about any upcoming adventures with the outdoor recreation center call them at (605) 385-2999.