42 years of tradition serves community

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Jessica McConnell
  • Minot Air Force Base Public Affairs
MINOT AIR FORCE BASE, N.D. --  Team Minot Airmen took time to serve local senior citizens during this year's annual Day of Love event, held at the Jimmy Doolittle Center here, Nov. 24.

The Day of Love celebration began in 1969 as a function for the senior citizens, and to involve base personnel who were away from their families, in a celebration of giving thanks.

Airmen welcomed guests with smiles and extended arms as they arrived and were escorted to the inside of the building where base leadership eagerly awaited to greet the special visitors.

"This community has welcomed us with open arms, and we appreciate it," said Col. James Dawkins Jr., 5th Bomb Wing commander. "This event is our chance to return that favor. The base benefits from this interaction, as I'm sure all of you do as well. Thank you all for coming, and enjoy."

The 91st Missile Wing commander said he was also delighted to be there and was happy to have the opportunity to meet everyone.

"We have much to be thankful for - Colonel Dawkins and I are very thankful for the great relationship that the base and Airmen here have with the community," said Col. S. L. Davis, 91st MW commander. "Thank you all for coming and it is our pleasure to serve you all today."

Following opening remarks was the crowning of this year's king and queen. Decisions were based on who the eldest woman and man were at the event. Crowning is a tradition carried out every year during this popular affair.

Once the king and queen were named, it was the moment everyone had been waiting for - time to eat.

Airmen gathered in the back to pick up large trays of fine food to include turkey, ham, green beans, stuffing, and corn - everything expected at this traditionally celebrated meal.

Food was then served to every one of the senior citizens in attendance - whatever they wanted, Airmen were sure to deliver.

Mary Strandberg, an 89-year-old citizen of Minot, has attended this event many times. In fact, Strandberg couldn't even recall how many times she'd actually attended.

"Too many times to remember," laughed Strandberg. "My favorite part of the dinner is the togetherness - just everyone being together. I really appreciate the Airmen serving us."

It wasn't just the senior citizens who enjoyed the event. Many Airmen were happy to be there and show their appreciation for the Minot community.

Staff Sgt. Lorry Arellano, 5th Medical Group NCOIC of operation records, said this was her first time volunteering for the event.

"I definitely enjoy giving back - that's what Thanksgiving is all about," said Arellano. "There's always something to learn from everyone, and that's my favorite part of this event. They are full of knowledge and experience, so there's a lot to learn here."

It was also Capt. Michael Rakowski's, 5th Bomb Wing Judge Advocate office, first time volunteering for the Day of Love.

"As demonstrated this summer, the base and community are very tied together," said the captain. "Whenever we have the opportunity to show our appreciation for how much they've done for us, it's a great thing."

The Day of Love is a popular event for both base personnel and senior citizens alike, and according to everyone in attendance, next year is sure to be just as great as every other year before it.