Air Force Ball celebrates Air Force's 62nd anniversary

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Samantha S. Crane
  • 366th Fighter Wing Public Affairs Office
MOUNTAIN HOME AIR FORCE BASE, Idaho --  The 366th Fighter Wing hosted an Air Force Ball Sept. 19 to celebrate the Air Force's 62nd Anniversary with the help of the Republic of Singapore Air Force and local community members at the Gunfighter's Club.

More than 450 people attended the ball, which was themed "Honoring Gunfighters: Past and Present."

"People of all ranks -- in both the United States Air Force and Republic of Singapore Air Force, said they had a great time," said 2nd Lt. Christina Prejean, Air Force Ball committee lead. "They enjoyed the fact that they didn't have to sit in one place the entire evening, loved the freedom to walk around and mingle and said the DJ livened up the night."

The night of celebration started with a social hour and heavy hors d' oeuvres at 6 p.m. followed by the formal portion of the event at 7:30 p.m. After the presentation of colors and playing of both the American and Singaporean national anthems, distinguished guests led attendees in a round of toasts. A photo and video presentation highlighted the night's theme displaying Gunfighters in action.

Maj. Gen. Blair E. Hansen, deputy director of the defense intelligence operational coordination center, who commanded the 366th FW from January 2004 to June 2005, then took the floor as the guest speaker.

As the newest Gunfighter in attendance, Airman 1st Class Jesse Grimes, 366th Civil Engineer Squadron, joined General Hansen, who represented the most senior Air Force member, for the symbolic cake-cutting ceremony.

"I really enjoyed the overall mood of the ball," said Airman Grimes. "It was great how everyone, regardless of rank, were just having fun together, and the food was really good."

The night then continued with dancing and socializing until midnight.

"I know it was a new format, and with the construction and air conditioner problems, it was really hot, but at the end of the ball, the Gunfighters really 'blew out the box' on the dance floor," said Col. John Bird, 366th FW commander. "I think people had a really good time. I would like to offer many thanks to all those Gunfighters who worked so hard over the last several weeks to make this a memorable event."