Airmen stay active with Fit Flag

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Janine Thibault
  • 354th Fgihter Wing Public Affairs
EIELSON AIR FORCE BASE, Alaska --  Bi-monthly, Airmen attend Fit Flag, formerly known as sports day, to take a break out of their schedules to participate in unit sports events and exercise.

Fit Flag offers Icemen a variety of sports activities to enjoy and get fit starting at 3:30 p.m. every second and fourth Friday.

This idea was initiated by Brig. Gen. Jim Post, 354th Fighter Wing Commander, who saw the need for a program that would involve Icemen in competitive sports activities and promote health and camaraderie.

"It's an opportunity for units to come together where they otherwise wouldn't. In the spirit of fitness and competition they can meet each other outside the office and get fit and have friendly competition," said 354th Fighter Wing Command Chief Master Sergeant Jerry Moore.

Fit Flag is a progressive event that is still adapting as needs arise.

These sports events are meant to include people in physical activity during the winter. During the cold dark days, it is important for people to remain active.

"This is a way to get Airmen out to do a physical activity that's fun as a whole team," said Senior Master Sgt. Todd Foulk, 354th Fighter Wing wing staff agency first sergeant.

The environment of Fit Flag promotes camaraderie through competition. Airmen can participate to fit their degree of competitive nature. The games are played sociably, allowing teams to compete free from overly aggressive play or unsportsman-like conduct.

Fit Flag allows Airmen to get to know the people they work without regard for rank. All ranks play together providing the opportunity to meet new people.

"It develops a closer bond so now out on the fields of competition, I have different relationships with other Airmen who talk about the volleyball match and some of the matches we've played. Whether it is me or General Post or any other folks on our senior staff, we are able to have friendly competition with our Airmen," said Chief Master Sgt. Moore.

There are few requirements placed on participants, simply wear your official physical training gear and be familiar the rules of the game. Fit Flag is a chance for Airmen to let loose and do good for their bodies and build team work with fellow Icemen.