(Official U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Jennie Chamberlin)

MACDILL AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. -- It takes dedication to be an American Airman. Just ask Senior Airman Carlos Monge, an aerospace ground equipment technician with the 927th Maintenance Squadron. Monge participated in a sit-up contest during the 927th Air Refueling Wing's Family Day, an event that brought reservists' families together to thank them for their support. (Official U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Jennie Chamberlin)

Fun In The Sun: 927th gives thanks to families

Published April 25, 2012
By Staff Sgt. Shawn Rhodes
927th Air Refueling Wing

MACDILL AIR FOCE BASE, Fla. -- When the Air Force hits the beach, they do it in style. Hundreds from the 927th Air Refueling Wing (ARW) gathered with their families at the beach here on MacDill for Family Day, an event that gave the reservists a well-deserved break and brought families together for camaraderie.

"The families are the core of the Air Force; without their support, we couldn't do what we do," said Chief Nina Watkins, command chief of the
927 ARW. "This is a way for us to bring families together for some relaxation and fellowship. In the wing we're all like family to each other."

"We never have enough opportunities to properly thank our families for serving the nation's needs," said Col. David Pavey, the commander of the 927th ARW. "This is a token of our appreciation for the sacrifices they make for their country."

The day's festivities started at lunch when members began arriving with their families at the beach here. MacDill is fortunate to be situated on a peninsula in the Tampa Bay Area, a geographical feature that includes miles of shoreline and a beach. As children played in the water and adults enjoyed talking under shaded picnic areas, volunteers were turning out hot dogs and hamburgers by the grill to a steady stream of diners.

The day even included a relay race where reservists worked together to drag their friends behind them in the sand, climb under camouflage netting, and race in the soft sand. When the events were done, the reservists were released to spend time with their families, many who rarely get to enjoy the sights of Tampa.

"Just seeing the smiles on the faces of the kids andf families is a great reward for our efforts today," Pavey said. "Putting this event on for our reserve families is definitely worthwhile."