Military Affairs Committee thanks servicemembers

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Dillon White
  • 341st Space Wing Public Affairs Office
MALMSTROM AIR FORCE BASE, Mont. --  The Military Affairs Committee hosted the annual Military Appreciation Picnic at the Montana ExpoPark in Great Falls, Aug. 18 from noon to 3 p.m.

The MAC has been hosting the picnic for decades, said Chip Beck, MAC chairman and retired Air Force colonel.

"We support and serve the active-duty, guard and reserve servicemembers who are part of our community," Mr. Beck said. "We are the only community that I know of that provides an event of this magnitude."

The picnic volunteers arrived at approximately 7:30 a.m. to set up for the event which included games for children ranging from arts and crafts to padded baton jousts; a live dj; 123 door prizes such as a compound-hunting bow and gift cards donated by more than 50 local-area businesses. Free food, ice cream and soda were also available.

Volunteers served up 1,700 hotdogs, 600 pounds of barbeque beef, 400 pounds of beans and 200 pounds of both potato and macaroni salad at the picnic.

"The people of Great Falls really appreciate having a relationship with the servicemembers in our community and this is our chance to say thanks," Mr. Beck said.

Everyone seemed to have a good time at the picnic, especially the children who flocked to the games and activities building.

"It's great," said Bonnie Miller, who attended the picnic with her family.
"Our two-year-old has been doing all the activities. I'm glad they have so much to do for the kids."

Even the volunteers working apparently had a good time.

"I ran the baton game and even when you're working it's fun," said Gavin Weissman, 13.

Mr. Beck attributed the success of this year's picnic to the hard work of Rick Mauseth, Greg Teft and Dave Bertelsen, all local area business owners who organized volunteers, food and transported equipment and other items throughout the week of the event.

"Those guys deserve a big 'thank you'," Mr. Beck said.

The MAC also organizes the annual Golf-a-Roo and MAC Ball at the Meadowlark Country Club, as well as the Sports Auto-Rama held annually at the base open house.

They also host the base co-commander program which pairs military commanders and their families with families of civic leaders to foster positive relations with one-another.

For more information on volunteer opportunities or the MAC, contact Chip Beck at 899-4461.