41st Annual Enlisted Appreciation Night brings fun to Vance

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Mary Davis
  • 71st Flying Training Wing Public Affairs
VANCE AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. --  Team Vance enlisted members can enjoy a night of food, fun and prizes at the 41st Annual Enlisted Appreciation Night April 26 at the Vance Collocated Club. 

The event, sponsored by the Enid Chamber of Commerce and local businesses, is an opportunity to thank enlisted people for what they do, said George Pankonin, Enlisted Appreciation Night co-chairman. 

"Enlisted people are the backbone of the Air Force, and we use this annual event to recognize them for their dedication and contributions," Mr. Pankonin said. 

Vance enlisted members can bring one guest to the event. Servicemembers must bring a photo ID with date of birth to register for the prize giveaway. 

The night kicks off at 5:30 p.m. with free pizza, hot wings and beverages. A blackjack tournament takes place from 7-8 p.m. 

"The tournament will be played for chips," said Doug Cole, Enlisted Appreciation Night co-chairman. "At 8 p.m., all card playing stops, and the individual with the most chips will receive a trophy and bragging rights for a year." 

Only active-duty members can play in the tournament. If members are deployed or do not wish to play, their spouses may take their place. 

A prize drawing takes place after the tournament and includes flat-screen TVs, a freezer full of meat, electronics, cash and a host of other prizes. Only active duty enlisted members assigned or attached to Vance Air Force Base may win prizes. 

"Members must be present to win," Mr. Pankonin said. "Servicemembers who are on temporary duty, deployed or on-duty and cannot attend will receive tickets that are maintained by the command chief master sergeant." 

"Since children cannot attend, childcare will be available at the child development center and youth center," Mr. Cole said. "Space will be limited, so call the CDC and youth center to make reservations." 

Airmen need to ensure they are drinking responsibly, said Master Sgt. Raul Flores, 71st Mission Support Group first sergeant. 

"If Airmen intend to drink during the event, they should have a plan for getting home safely," he said. "Call the Vance Airmen Against Drunk Drivers at 541-4663 to obtain a ride home."