AVIANO AIR BASE, Italy – --
Every year, the U.S. Air Force invites active-duty members and their families to attend the USAF Ball. The ball celebrates the birthday of the USAF and marks the historic event in which the Army Air Corps transitioned into its own branch and became the USAF on September 18th, 1947. This year’s event marks the 76th anniversary and would not be possible without the vision, hard work and dedication of the USAF Ball committee.
“The best part about being on the committee is being able to lead the largest base event of the year,” said U.S. Air Force Capt. Ketanny Alves, 31st Fighter Wing Air Force Ball committee president. “Especially after months of planning, coordinating and navigating obstacles, it will be amazing to see the success of the USAF Ball.”
The ball committee, comprised of 25 members, spends up to a year planning the event. Including picking a venue, transportation, fundraising, advertising, childcare, tickets sales, decorations, menu selections and much more.“It is a long process; it takes patience and commitment,” said U.S. Air Force Master Sgt. Benjamin Hewitt, 31st Fighter Wing Air Force Ball committee vice president, “You have to step outside of your comfort zone and be willing to take chances.”
Being on the committee gives people a chance to work with local nationals and a team of active duty members. Members get the chance to build their leadership skills and work with members all over the Wyvern Nation to pull off this event.
“I hope at least one time in everyone’s career they get a chance to go to an Air Force Ball or be a part of the Air Force Ball committee,” said Staff Sgt. Kayla Jerido, 31st Fighter Wing Air Force Ball committee member. “It is a great experience, I am learning a lot and I am getting a chance to meet so many incredible people.”