WHITEMAN AIR FORCE BASE, Mo. -- The Whiteman Base Community Council hosted an outdoor movie to celebrate military spouses, on July 11.
Approximately 25 military and family members attended the event co-hosted by the Whiteman Comprehensive Airman Fitness group and base key spouses.
“This pandemic has had an effect on all of us, but especially families and kids because many folks have been isolated for months now,” said Casey Lund, Warrensburg City council member and Whiteman BCC president. “The hope was to support an event that was geared toward families, which would be allowable under social distancing guidelines and give the feeling of community and normalcy while they were together.”
The event featured two movies, one beginning at 6:30 p.m. and another starting at 9:30 p.m. Spouses brought their children and enjoyed refreshments while they watched the featured showings.
“It [gave spouses] an opportunity to be around others and remind them that they are important to the mission also,” said Amanda Carroll, a 509th Security Forces Squadron key spouse.
Many of the spouses appreciated the event and thought it was a good idea.
“It’s a cool event,” said Jaclyn Walamas, a drive-in movie participant and spouse of Airman 1st Class Steven Walamas, a 509th SFS member. “I think that it really brings people together in a different way while maintaining social distancing.”
Lund said it was more than just a feel-good morale event, it was a symbol of our “Stronger Together,” motto that echoes throughout the BCC communities.
“The 18 communities that make up our BCC truly have a special place in their heart for Whiteman personnel and families and it’s our mission to enhance those quality-of-life items that promote engagement,” said Lund. “It makes Airmen feel welcomed and appreciated here in West Central Missouri. Strengthening relationships between surrounding communities and Whiteman are crucial during unprecedented times like these. We will continue that hard work of promoting community to bring that mission enhancement to our Airmen.”
For more information regarding community events, visit https://www.whiteman.af.mil/Community/