Cheer on team at Air Force Assistance Fund tournament

  • Published
  • By Mary Lou Gorny
  • Hilltop Times editor
It may not be Duke against Kansas, but as the NCAA tournament brackets shape up for the finals, Hill Air Force Base will get the opportunity to watch the results of another mammoth championship tournament as two squadron teams will play for the final honor of being the most skilled in the Air Force Assistance Fund Kick Off on March 29.

As the campaign kicks off, and unit and squadron representatives begin reaching out to all active duty military personnel, the first date of the effort will feature hamburgers for $5 at the Warrior Health and Fitness Center, 11:30 p.m. to 1 p.m. and the game will begin thereafter.

The Jazz Dancers are sending seven of their corps to the game and will provide half-time entertainment and raffles will give participants a chance to score gift cards and similar merchandise.

The event is meant to draw everyone's attention to the cause and to have a good time, said Lt. Nathan Greiner, Hill AFB installation project officer for the Air Force Assistance Fund.

"We're still looking for teams," he said. Any team must be composed entirely of members of that particular squadron or unit. Those interested should contact Philip.brick@hill.af.mil.

"I think that everyone that participates in (the campaign) is motivated because when you join the Air Force you forget about yourself and you become part of the team and this is all about becoming a part of the team - helping out your fellow Airmen," Greiner said.

All profits from the kick off event will go to the Air Force Assistance Fund.

"Just to see the fact that Team Hill gave $42,000 and they gave $259,000 back to us (in benefits received directly at Hill AFB) is such a huge benefit. I feel proud to be able to participate in this effort," he said.

There are four nonprofits that can be selected to directly receive your donation. The Air Force Aid Foundation often assists in time of need for active duty members, such as unforeseen family emergency medical situations and travel expenses for family deaths. These are given in the forms of grants. The LeMay Foundation assists enlisted and officer retirees and their spouses. The Air Force Enlisted Village provides housing for surviving spouses of retired enlisted Air Force members and also temporary housing for surviving spouses of those who die while on active duty. The Air Force Village cares for retired Air Force officers and their widows who need help with housing.

The way Greiner sees it -- this is all Airmen helping Airmen. He figures he works with the people who see the direct benefits of this effort. "This is something that helps them out quite a bit when they need it."

All donations will be accepted, but unit representatives only directly contact active duty members in person for the opportunity to donate.

For more information, contact your unit or squadron Air Force Assistance Fund representative.