First eight new housing units open soon Published Nov. 29, 2006 By Staff Sgt. Amanda Mills Public Affairs Vance Air Force Base, Okla. -- Green grass and lighted paths will soon replace red dirt and bulldozers as a local construction company releases the first eight new family housing units May 13. The ribbon-cutting ceremony begins at 10 a.m. and includes a ceremonial signing-over of the first house to its occupants, Master Sgt. Joe and Tech. Sgt. Mary Davis. "The new housing shows how involved and committed our wing leadership is to the quality of life of our enlisted people and their families," said Master Sergeant Davis, 71st Mission Support Group first sergeant. "We are truly blessed to be one of the first families to receive a new home." The rest of the new homes will be released in phases, said 1st Lt. Alexander Fletcher, 71st Logistics Readiness Squadron. After the ceremony, distinguished visitors including U.S. and state senators and representatives, Enid Mayor Ernie Currier, honorary commanders and others will tour a furnished home. Team Vance is also welcome to tour another open house for a short time after the ceremony. "This is (currently) our most exciting project," said Lt. Col. Robert Mitchell, 71st Mission Support Group deputy commander. "These are nice homes equal to what might be found off base. They have two-car garages, covered patios, even storm shelters. The end results are fantastic and I think it's really going to improve morale here." The new housing's first eight occupants are: Airman 1st Class Viviana Blanco-Warren, 71st Medical Group; Senior Airman Shana Cannon, 71st Comptroller Squadron; the Davises; Master Sgt. Barbara Krick, 71st MDG; Staff Sgt. Alexander Miles, 71st Operations Support Squadron; Tech. Sgt. Gary Rann, 71st OSS; Staff Sgt. Christopher Stewart, Air Force recruiter; and Master Sgt. Mary Harley, inbound from Air Force Recruiting Service.