FSS Carnival is winter wonderland for attendees

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Janine Thibault
  • 354th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
EIELSON AIR FORCE BASE, Alaska --  Iceman Falls Ski Hill and Lodge was the place to be March 4 for anyone who loves a winter carnival. The 354th Force Support Squadron engineered the event for Airmen and their families as well as civilian workers here at Eielson Air Force Base.

The winter carnival is one of many seasonal events put on by 354 FSS personnel that people can enjoy with friends or family. The event was designated an alternate duty location allowing Airmen and civilians on duty to participate.

"Customer appreciation was one way to give back to the people who have utilized us," said Sidney Hinch, the director of Eielson's Outdoor Recreation.

Recreational programs aim to support the wide variety of entertainment preferences people have at Eielson. The carnival attempted to cater to as many people's needs as possible.

According to Senior Airman Tony Baker, 354th Medical Operations Squadron bioenvironmental engineer technician, the carnival was a way for his shop to get together and mingle while enjoying the food during their lunch break.

It also exposed Icemen to winter sports and activities that are locally enjoyed and might give people an introduction to events that take place in the surrounding community.

There were activities that appealed to a variety of interests. Activities challenged participants such as the human curling competition. Other events included dog mushing rides, skeet shooting, cardboard sled races, and snow tubing.

"People always like tubing," said Mr. Hinch. "Anybody from the little kids to the grandparents can do it, all they have to do is sit down and lock their legs."

During the last contest of the day, people watched as the commanders and chiefs raced down the slope for the commanders and chiefs race. The high flying acrobatics of the contestants left the crowd buzzing.

354th Fighter Wing leadership makes supporting the community a top priority. The unique conditions here often make entertainment critical in the winter months, which was another reason the Winter Carnival was held to provide a fun environment as the Eielson community slowly reach winters end.