RANDOLPH AIR FORCE BASE, Texas –
Many activities are in store in the coming months for the base community as Randolph celebrates Year of the Air Force Family, an observance that will continue through next July.
Family-oriented events in October include Oktoberfest sponsored by the 12th Force Support Squadron Oct. 2 at the Parr O'Club and Tops in Blue's performance Oct. 22 between Hangars 4 and 5.
Maj. Rob Roeckers, installation project officer for Year of the Air Force Family, said Oktoberfest is a fitting start to Randolph's activities.
"Oktoberfest is an event that families can participate in," he said. "It's a traditional event, but it fits well with the goals of Year of the Air Force Family."
November will also be a busy month for the observance.
"One event that should be a treat for the entire family will be the military family appreciation night on Nov. 6," said Col. Jacqueline Van Ovost, 12th Flying Training Wing commander. "This event, just prior to the air show, will include the Lt. Dan Band, featuring actor Gary Sinise. It will be a great time for the whole family."
The Randolph Air Show, set for Nov. 7-8, will cap Air Force Family Week, which runs from Nov. 1-7.
"We encourage everyone to be on the lookout for many other initiatives being planned this year," Colonel Van Ovost said. "It's our way of showing our appreciation for what our Airmen, whether active-duty or civilian, and their families do every day."
In proclaiming the observance, Michael Donley, secretary of the Air Force, and Gen. Norton Schwartz, Air Force chief of staff, called the Air Force family "as dynamic and diverse as the unique Airmen and families it encompasses."
They said the family not only includes active-duty, Reserve and Guard component members, civilians, spouses and children, but also parents, friends and community partners "who, through everyday actions, provide our Airmen a firm foundation of guidance and support."
Mr. Donley spelled out some of the objectives of Year of the Air Force Family during an address to the Air Force Sergeants Association last month.
"We will focus our attention on Air Force families - their hardships and needs, what we might do to make Air Force life more compatible with family life and how we can build a greater sense of community across the Air Force," he said.
At Randolph, Year of the Air Force Family "will provide opportunities for us to focus on and enhance our already outstanding Team Randolph family programs," Colonel Van Ovost said.