Combat dining-out targets fun for all

  • Published
  • By John Turner
  • 341st Missile Wing Public Affairs
MALMSTROM AIR FORCE BASE, Mont. --  Fill your water guns and camo up. The 341st Missile Wing's Minuteman Mayhem combat dining-out is set to go operational.

There will be hijinks and pandemonium July 31 when Building 3081, Vehicle Operations, is transformed into a battle zone.

Water balloons and squirt guns are authorized but will not be issued at the event. A first sergeant will act as Sergeant at Arms and ensure the event remains safe and fun. Real weapons like knives, bayonets, truncheons, paintball guns, stun guns, flash-bangs and bazookas are not allowed.

The Airman battle uniform is the required dress for all active duty and reserve component Air Force personnel. Civilians can wear any uniform combination except the ABU, with all rank and tapes removed, or civilian attire.

"The purpose of this event is primarily to have fun and enjoy a relaxing evening of camaraderie in good company amongst all the squadrons," said Master Sgt. Manuela Dabu-Clark, 341st Medical Operations Squadron family health flight chief and a wing point of contact for the event. "The dining-out is to enhance morale and esprit de corps to Air Force unit members and their guests."

There will be an obstacle course to navigate to reach the notorious grog bowels, and ceremonial procedures to adhere to. The event will respect Air Force customs and courtesies.

Hamburgers, hotdogs and chips will be served for nutritional fare. Beverages will also be available.

While 'spray and play' with water-projecting weaponry is tactically acceptable, other forms of combat violate the rules of the mess. If you are spoiling for a hearty food fight, be forewarned that throwing edibles at anyone--especially the head table--is strictly prohibited.

Tickets are $5 and must be purchased from group points of contact beforehand. Civilians 18 years and older may also participate. Tickets are limited to 500 and are selling fast.

Dining-outs and dining-ins are long-standing Air Force traditions that originated with the Army Air Corps. These two social events differ only in that nonmilitary spouses, friends and civilians may attend a dining-out. Combat variations of these events are less formal and have become popular in recent years.

Points of contact for tickets are:

· 341st Mission Support Group:  Staff Sgt. Catherine Sweatt
· 341st Medical Group: Master Sgt. Kamau Joseph and Master Sgt. Manuela Dabu-Clark
· 819th RED HORSE Squadron: Master Sgt. James Pollock
· 341st Maintenance Group: Tech. Sgt. Brian Borchlewicz, Staff Sgt. Tiffany Cason, and Airman 1st Class Jason Groves
· 341st Missile Wing Staff Agencies and 341st Comptroller Squadron: Master Sgt. Hiram Kirkland
· 341st Operations Group: 1st Lt. Carolyn Hockaday, 2nd Lt. Eric Maloney, and 2nd Lt. Lauren Parisian
· 341st Security Forces Group: Master Sgt. Travis Jackson and Master Sgt. Katie Jackson