by Senior Airman Maeson L. Elleman
18th Wing Public Affairs
4/19/2013 - KADENA AIR BASE, Japan -- Fifty
people amassing 12 teams gathered at the Risner Fitness Center here
April 12 with one common process on their minds: compete, control ...
and contribute.
Teams from all around the base shelled out cash as donations to the Air
Force Assistance Fund for their chance to dominate the courts in each of
the tournament's separate competitions.
Though the contest sported three events - dodgeball, volleyball and
basketball - only two teams claimed separate champion titles. The 18th
Logistics Readiness Squadron prevailed in volleyball while airmen from
the 18th Wing Public Affairs office triumphed over two of their own
matches.
"When we first started to play, I felt like we'd be amazing in the
competition," said Airman 1st Class Keith James, 18th Wing Public
Affairs photojournalist and dodgeball participant. "We have good
teamwork, we know each other, and we have that flow. I felt like we
wouldn't be beaten."
It was a premonition that came through as PA ducked, dove and dunked
their way to victory over both the basketball and dodgeball tournaments.
"We could've caught the ball much better than we did, but in the end
everything worked out well," James said about the dodgeball tournament.
"We worked as a team and communicated well. There was no weak link. We
rotated and made sure everybody played a key role at one point or
another. If this challenge ever presents itself again, we'll be ready."
While the units were pitted against one another in a friendly battle, it
was that mentality of taking care of one another that led donations to
soar quickly for the AFAF, making the competition a success.
"Our squadron alone has raised about $500 towards AFAF," said Staff Sgt.
Tiffany Kendrick, 18th Force Support Squadron assistant NCO in charge
of employments who volunteered as an AFAF representative and Sports Day
coordinator this year. "The AFAF is important because its main focus is
helping Airmen when they are in the military or when they (are, or have)
retired. It's reassuring to know that we have programs that will help
us when emergencies occur or even programs that will take care of our
dependents if there was something to happen to us."
Whether or not Kadena hosts another sports event like this one next
year, Staff Sgt. Jessica Calkins, 18th Comptroller Squadron financial
analyst and fellow AFAF volunteer, said it's important for Airmen help
with the cause.
"You never know when you will need help," she said. "The AFAF helps
Airmen, and that's important to the overall morale and strength of the
Air Force. It's better to help those that need help now so they will be
there for you when you need help."
The AFAF is scheduled to continue accepting donations until May 3.
Kadena Airmen have raised more than $79,000 so far, but the wing hopes
to raise at least $118,500.
For more information on how to donate to the Air Force Aid Foundation, contact your unit AFAF representative.
Monday, April 22, 2013
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