Eielson Town Hall

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt John Gott
  • 354th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
EIELSON AIR FORCE BASE, Alaska --  "Why are Eielson Airmen paying 30 cents more for gas than Fort Wainwright Soldiers?" is a common question Icemen have, and during the recent town hall meeting held Sept. 21, that question and others were answered.

A town hall was held to discuss a variety of topics, including winter safety and preparation, housing updates, trash disposal and scheduled events to enjoy this winter on Eielson AFB.

Leadership from the 354th Fighter Wing were present to address questions and concerns and provide updates on efforts such as construction, winter safety, and winter activities for Icemen.

Also present were representatives from AAFES and the commissary to answer questions Icemen may have had.

"I went because I'm the Top 3 president and I wanted to see what information I could get, that could be filtered out to our Airmen, specifically information on housing," said Master Sgt Shannon Wall, 354th Maintenance Group Training Superintendent.

One topic addressed was the proper disposal of trash in base housing. To assist residents in disposing of large items properly, the Civil Engineer Squadron placed a large open-top container at the transfer site located on French Creek Drive between Fire Station 2 and Moose Lake Drive.

Issues have risen which include residents not disposing of their trash properly.

"Please let me remind you all that this is your base", said Brigadier General Post, "if you don't tolerate trash in your backyard, don't tolerate it on your base! If you see someone not following the rules, please approach and remind them of our standards and regulations. If they continue to do the wrong thing anyway, please don't hesitate to contact Eagle Eyes at 377-5130 for support."

Town Hall meetings aren't only for those families who live in base housing. The topics discussed also affect single Airmen and anyone who belongs to the Iceman Team.

Fairbanks Visitor Services and Membership Vice President, Ms. Karen Lane attended to share some of their, "We don't hibernate, we celebrate" mentality and inform Icemen of the many events and activities going on in the Fairbanks area during the winter.

General Post closed the meeting by thanking everyone who took the time to attend. He emphasized that Eielson's community deserves to be heard, and hopes that future town hall meetings will be attended by hundreds of members of the community, rather than just a few dozen.