Hill Air Force Base has thrived over the years due to strong support from the surrounding community.
Gone are the days when military installations operated in isolation. Today, they benefit from collaborative partnerships that enhance the quality of life for military personnel, civilian employees, and their families.
"The strength of Hill Air Force Base lies not only in its dedicated service members, but also in the unwavering support of the surrounding community,” said Col. Dan Cornelius, 75th Air Base Wing commander. “This collective effort not only fosters a strong sense of community, but also significantly contributes to our overall readiness and mission success.”
Community support
Several organizations play important roles in supporting Hill AFB by providing essential services, volunteering, and donating resources to help military families succeed.
Many local businesses often offer discounts and special deals, demonstrating their appreciation for the sacrifices made by service members, veterans and their families.
Additionally, community volunteers contribute their time to various base activities and events.
In one example, a local non-profit has supported the base for more than a decade, providing various programs and services, including support to the Hearts Apart program for families with deployed members.
This non-profit has supported the base by hosting military retreats for deploying families, providing volunteers and resources. It also offers monthly activities with a catered lunch for parents and children.
"The most popular activity is a meal prep event, where families prepare meals and leave with 10 freezer meals,” said Master Sgt. Alicia Ringlehan, Military and Family Readiness Center NCO. “Other events include arts and crafts like vision boards, candle making, and wreath making, as well as guest speakers sharing their military experiences.”
A local resort has also been a generous supporter of Hill AFB, providing Thanksgiving and Christmas meals to families with deployed members.
“These events help military families make connections and socialize, which is crucial when a family member is deployed,” said Ringlehan. “They also provide an opportunity for us to share available resources through our network of helping agencies and service providers.”
Organizational contributions
Beyond these direct support efforts, organizations like the Top of Utah Military Affairs Committee work to keep Hill AFB integrated within the community.
TOUMAC, an organization formed in January 2001 by merging the Ogden/Weber Chamber and the Davis County Chamber, strengthens the relationship between Hill AFB and the local community through various events.
Initiatives such as the annual Salute to Our Nation’s Defenders Picnic and Ogden Raptors Military Appreciation Night help build a supportive environment for the base’s personnel and their families.
The Utah Department of Veterans and Military Affairs also contributes significantly to this effort. It supports Hill AFB and aids military personnel and veterans across the state.
UDVMA partners with local organizations to provide comprehensive support services. Their efforts in workforce development, transportation, and community partnerships ensure that military personnel and their families have the necessary resources.
In addition to these formal partnerships, community support comes from various entities, ranging from non-profit organizations to small business owners to large defense contractors. Their contributions span donations to local unit holiday parties and year-round aid to military families.
Efforts like food donation events and support for local Exceptional Family Member Program families demonstrate the community's ongoing commitment, said Kim Taylor, Military and Family Readiness Center director.
“Community support is vital, especially with the continued mismatch between BAH and housing costs,” said Taylor. “The Military and Family Readiness Center Airman’s Attic, for instance, supports families with food and diapers for newer families.”
Nearly 25% of military families report food insecurity, compared to 10% of the rest of the population, according to Taylor.
“With the high cost of housing today, it’s often necessary to maintain two household incomes,” Taylor said. “The transient nature of military life can make it difficult for spouses to find stable employment, putting our military families at risk.”
While it's impossible to list every organization and contribution, the community’s combined efforts significantly enhance the support for families stationed at Hill AFB.
Helping our own
Inside the fence, private organizations and volunteers play a critical role in supporting the base and its families. From Operation Warm Heart’s holiday meal program, in partnership with the Defense Commissary Agency, to initiatives like the Chapel’s Angel Tree, their contributions are numerous.
Programs like the Team Hill Cookie Drive ensure that Airmen living in dormitories, many of whom are away from home for the first time, receive home-baked goods during the holidays, fostering a sense of community and care.
Taylor said key support liaisons and mentors also provide essential support to units and their spouses, helping them navigate the challenges of military life. These liaisons and mentors offer guidance, resources, and a listening ear to military families.
Additionally, individual support from unit leaders, such as first sergeants, is just as important. They assist with personal and professional issues, ensuring that military members and their families have the support they need.
Cornelius said these examples underscore the unity and mutual support that characterize Hill AFB and its surrounding community.
“The support of our community plays a crucial role in enhancing the well-being of our military members and their families,” said Cornelius. “We are deeply grateful for this continued partnership and support."