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Top 3 hosts dorm dinner

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Alexandria Mosness
  • 20th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
SHAW AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. --  With sunny skies, it was perfect grilling weather for a barbeque, and the Top 3 took advantage of the clear skies and hosted the monthly dorm dinner here July 13.

The dorm dinner is an ongoing tradition that is usually held every second Tuesday of the month.

"It is important to have a meal to show the younger Airmen we appreciate them and are glad they are here," said Hugh Wilson, coordinators for Chapel's single ministry. "This also allows us the opportunity to reach out to them, and show them as a chapel community, we are here for them."

Not only did the residents get an array of food choices, it was also a chance for them to network with other Airmen.

"This is the opportunity for them to begin relationships in a casual atmosphere," Wilson added. "It also lets the Airmen get out of the dorms and not just sit in their rooms."

While for some it was about the getting the Airmen out, for others it was simply letting them know they were there.

"We get the chance to do this every month," said Master Sgt. David Self, 20th Civil Engineering Squadron, first sergeant. "It is always important to get together with our comrades-in-arms and help them. This is an informal environment, so we want them to feel free to ask questions. It can be personal, professional or just anything that is on their mind."

Although the chapel sponsors the event each month, a different group throughout the base pulls the dinner together. This month, the responsibility was with Shaw's Top 3, the top three tiers of the enlisted force.

"I really appreciate what they have done here," said Airman 1st Class Travis Pierce, 169th Maintenance Squadron at McEntire Joint National Guard Base, S.C., crew chief. "It is nice to be able to come out and get some home-cooked food. Plus, it is a nice change of pace from eating at the dining facility."

And, it wasn't just the leadership who wanted to talk either.

"I love being able to hang out with the first shirts," said Airman 1st Class Andrew Sexton, 55th Aircraft Maintenance Unit crew chief. "This just shows us that we are all the same, no matter the rank. I love coming to the dorm dinners."

For more information about the Chapel's single ministry, call 803-895-1106 or 803-481-7972.