Citizen Airmen celebrate family

  • Published
  • By 927th Public Affairs Office
  • 927th AIR REFUELING WING PUBLIC AFFAIRS
MACDILL AIR FORCE BASE, FL --  On Saturday of the April Unit Training Assembly, the Citizen Airmen of the 927th Air Refueling Wing, MacDill Air force Base Florida, invited their loved ones to join them here for a fun filled afternoon.

The day kicked off with the first three hours embracing the Air Force Wingman Day concept, a conception that consisted of, briefings and team-building exercises.
"Wingman Day is an opportunity to reinforce the four pillars of the Airman Comprehensive Fitness Program of mental, physical, social and spiritual fitness," said Tech Sgt. David Bales, 927th ARW chaplain's assistant and Wingman Day facilitator. "It's a great chance for people to take time out of their busy schedules during UTA weekend and just learn more about each other," he added.

At the conclusion of Wingman Day, Airmen greeted their friends and family and the festivities began. Although the skies opened up, that did not put a damper on the afternoon; the event was relocated from the MacDill Beach to Hangar 3.

"It down poured, the winds picked up, it was nasty," said Staff Sgt. Gary Woodward, 927th AMXS, crew chief. "These guys did a great job, 'adapt and overcome,'" he said.
Events like these could not be possible without the support of the community, the NFL Tampa Bay Buccaneers, entertained the more that 900 attendees with their quarterback experience, a challenge that tested the accuracy of throwing a pigskin to the hands of static receivers. Additionally the Buccaneers treated the crowd with guest appearances by the Buccaneers' cheerleaders and Captain Fear, the Buccaneers mascot.

Baseball fans were not left out, 'Raymond' from the MLB, Tampa Bay Rays was in attendance, posing for photos and mingling with the fans.

"We had a lot of support from the community," said Master Sgt. Vince Naputi, 927 AMXS crew chief and family day coordinator. "Just to name a few, we had Anthony's [Coal Fired Pizza] donate wings, Coca Cola [Beverages Florida LLC] donated sodas, the USO helped serve food. We couldn't have done it without them," he said.

Being an Airmen in the U.S. Air Force Reserve is a juggling act, Reservists must balance mission requirements, civilian employment requirements and most importantly family needs.

"Family day is a great time for Airmen and their families to share a moment during the UTA," said Col. Randy L. Bright, 927th Air Refueling Wing commander. "Without the support of our families, we wouldn't be able to function as well as we do. They're such a vital piece of our lives, having this event is one small way we are able to show how much they are appreciated."